Research
My research focuses on understanding the relationships between people, institutions, culture, leadership, and change.
I am interested in how organisations and communities create environments where individuals can thrive, particularly within contexts of improvement, transformation, and complexity.
Current areas of research and inquiry include:
- Educational leadership
- Artificial intelligence
- Equity and belonging
- Organisational change
- Community partnerships
- Policy and implementation
- Pacific research methodologies
- Student engagement and success
- Cross-sector collaboration
My approach combines academic rigour with a strong commitment to practical relevance and community impact.
Publications & Awards
Journal Articles
The transformative potential of the Tīvaevae Model in educational and research practices – “Threading the Needle”
2025 · Pacific Dynamics 9(1):1060–1075
Authors: Houghton C, Houghton J, Houghton J
Negotiating Tīvaevae and Talanoa Methodologies in Education: A Critical Reflection
Mar 2023 · Waka Kuaka | The Journal of the Polynesian Society 132(1):147–164, The Polynesian Society
Author: Houghton JBT
15 Dec 2022 · Ethnographic Edge 5(2), Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Library
Authors: Houghton JBT, Houghton CIR-M-O-T-AS
Articles
Stitching belonging: What one Christchurch study asks teachers to do next
7 May 2026 · Ipu Kererū – Blog of the New Zealand Association for Research in Education
Author: Houghton J
Participatory action research and Pacific methodology
10 Dec 2020 · Ipu Kererū – Blog of the New Zealand Association for Research in Education
Author: Houghton J
Oral Presentations
Amplifying Pacific Voices in Christchurch: A Study Guided by Tīvaevae & Talanoa
2025 · NZARE Webinar Series
Author: Houghton J
Habit 2 – Moana: Know Your Pacific Learner and Context
2025 · Community of Phenomenal Practice – Ako Aotearoa
Author: Houghton J
Exploring Synergies in Pasifika Research Methodologies for Sustainable Education in the Diaspora
2023 · Australia Pasifika Educators Network Conference
Author: Houghton J
Negotiating Tīvaevae and Talanoa: Lessons from Pacific Voice in Education Research
2023 · New Zealand Association of Research in Education Conference
Author: Houghton J
Thesis / Dissertation
University of Canterbury
Authors: Houghton J; Manning R (Editor); Ratuva S (Editor)
Awards
Te Auaha Pito Mata Emerging Researcher Award, 2026
Community Research NZ
If your organisation is exploring research partnerships or new projects, you are welcome to Get in Touch to begin the conversation.
