Research

Dr. Johnson's research focuses primarily on four interrelated areas or inquiry: 1) learning/training and performance improvement, 2) HRD in tourism and hospitality, 3) international HRD, and 4) workforce development.

To contribute to research-driven knowledge in workforce development, she investigates various factors that influence the learning process and the outcomes of learning on performance.  Factors examined that support learning include leadership, HR practices and policies, talent management/development, training, technology, and engagement. Her scholarship is also internationally focused with specific emphasis on workforce education policy issues and HRD as an approach for a national agenda of development for nations and regions. Her research on workforce development is expanding with a focus on underrepresented populations including employees with Autism Spectrum Disorder and females in STEM, SMEs, and entrepreneurial leadership. Her research is conducted both locally and internationally in business and industry contexts as well as academic settings. In her research, she aims to bring together people, work/organizations, technology, community, and nations to meet customer and environmental demands through employee development and performance improvement.