BA (Hons) Education and English Literature

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education and English Literature program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a vibrant and supportive learning environment for those passionate about both the art of teaching and the power of literature. It is structured to progressively build foundational knowledge in educational theories and literary studies in the first year, explore diverse pedagogical approaches and literary periods and genres in the second, and culminate in specialized studies at the intersection of education and English literature, along with practical application projects in the final year. Students benefit from engaging lectures and seminars in both disciplines, opportunities to explore the pedagogical potential of literary texts, and collaborative projects. A key element involves fostering a deep understanding of how literature can enhance learning, develop empathy, and promote critical thinking within educational contexts. The program encourages students to develop their analytical skills, pedagogical understanding, and appreciation for the rich interplay between education and literature.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Education and English Literature program is designed to provide a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the core areas of both disciplines. Core modules typically cover educational psychology, sociological perspectives on education, curriculum theory and design, literary history (spanning various periods), literary analysis, and critical theory. As students progress, they often have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as children's literature, young adult fiction, creative writing, drama in education, and specific literary periods or genres through elective modules. The program emphasizes the development of critical analysis, pedagogical knowledge, curriculum development skills (particularly in relation to language arts), and the ability to effectively integrate literature into learning environments. Students will engage in literary analysis, discussions on the pedagogical applications of literature, case study analysis of teaching literary texts, and research projects exploring the impact of literature on learning. The final year often includes a significant project where students design and evaluate literature-based educational interventions and a substantial piece of literary criticism or research exploring the theoretical and practical links between education and English literature.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Education and English Literature program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within both the School of Education and the School of Humanities and Cultural Industries. Faculty members in both disciplines are actively engaged in research related to areas such as literacy development, the teaching of literature, the use of narrative in learning, children's literature, and the impact of reading on cognitive and emotional development. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current academic debates, theoretical advancements, and empirical findings in both education and literary studies. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests at the intersection of these fields through assignments and their final year project, fostering independent learning and critical inquiry.

Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA (Hons) Education and English Literature program fosters connections with a range of educational institutions, publishing houses, libraries, and arts organizations. The program may facilitate guest lectures by authors, editors, publishers, and experienced educators, opportunities for placements or voluntary work in schools, libraries, and literary organizations, and networking events with professionals from both fields. Students often have opportunities to explore the practical application of their literary knowledge in educational settings and to gain insights into career pathways that combine their passion for education and literature. The curriculum is designed to equip students with strong communication, analytical, and pedagogical skills valued by employers in both sectors.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Education and English Literature program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by exploring diverse literary traditions from around the world and examining international approaches to literacy education. The curriculum may include the study of postcolonial literature, world literature in translation, and discussions on global issues related to literacy and access to education. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on literature and learning. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as intercultural communication through literature and the role of literature in promoting global understanding within educational contexts, preparing graduates to engage with diverse learners and explore the global significance of literature in education.