What are the views of English studies students?
Students generally feel that their course is engaging, with passionate lecturers and seminar leaders who make individual modules enjoyable. The variety of texts studied is also a strength, allowing students to experiment with different periods and develop their ideas well. However, some students find the workload uneven, with too much group work at times and independent learning on specific modules.
Concerns about contact hours exist, with some students feeling they do not receive enough support or guidance from lecturers. The lack of clear communication regarding assessment deadlines and mitigation procedures is also a source of frustration. Some students feel their well-being is under-supported, with inadequate funding for well-being services and unclear procedures for seeking help.
Regarding employability, students feel that the course does not provide sufficient preparation for the workforce, with some feeling they are not equipped with the necessary skills or knowledge to secure a job in their chosen field. The lack of industry connections and guest lectures is also a weakness.
Despite these concerns, many students appreciate the flexibility of the course, which allows them to pursue their interests and express individuality. They also value the support lecturers and personal tutors provide, who are often willing to advocate for their students.
While engagement and variety have some strengths, significant concerns about workload, contact hours, well-being support, and employability preparation need to be addressed.