Dr. Maria Hugh is an Assistant Professor of Special Education at the University of Kansas. An early childhood special educator and board-certified behavior analyst by training, Dr. Hugh focuses on improving outcomes for young children with developmental disabilities by partnering with pre- and in-service educators to teach and learn about feasible and effective practices to use for young children with autism and developmental disabilities in inclusive early learning contexts. Her research aims to 1) identify usable practices that improve learning opportunities, 2) explore individual and organizational implementation mechanisms, and 3) test pre-service and in-service professional development supports that facilitate intervention decision-making and implementation. In pursuit of these aims, Dr. Hugh partners with schools and communities using implementation science and mixed methods approaches.
