Professor Hougland’s interests include sociology of organizations, industry in community context, education and society, voluntary sector research, and evaluation research. He is committed to applying sociological insights and research methodologies to assist with the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data useful for educational and public policy decisions.  Current and recently completed research that is reflective of this commitment includes an ongoing analysis of public perceptions of the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA), an evaluation of a program (funded by the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technology Education program) designed to develop expertise and employability in the area of information technology, collaboration in an evaluation of a program (funded by the National Science Foundation) to encourage the pursuit of science-related (STEM) degrees by Appalachian and minority students, and collaboration in an evaluation of a program at West Virginia University (funded by NSF ADVANCE) to enhance faculty development in STEM and and social/behavioral science disciplines..