What are the views of English literature students?
Students studying literature in English express a range of emotions, from enthusiasm and appreciation for their tutors' expertise to frustration and disappointment with various aspects of their course. Many students praise their tutors for being knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive, which creates an engaging and motivating learning environment.
However, several concerns regarding the course structure, assessment methods, and feedback processes are consistently raised. Students feel that emphasising exams as a primary evaluation means is unfair and does not accurately reflect their understanding of literary texts. They also struggle with clarity in marking criteria, which can lead to confusion and uneven grading.
Additionally, students express dissatisfaction with the limited availability of study spaces, particularly during peak periods, and the early closure of some facilities. Some students feel isolated due to the large size of the university and the independence required for their studies.
The impact of industrial action, such as strikes, is also a significant concern for many students, who report feeling disrupted and uncertain about the support available to them. Furthermore, some students are disappointed with the university's partnerships and policies, which they believe contradict its values and principles.
Students appreciate the wide range of available module options but sometimes find it challenging to navigate them effectively. They also value the opportunity to engage in discussions and debates during seminars but feel that more focus on exam preparation would be beneficial.
Students value tutor support, mainly when tutors are approachable, responsive, and provide constructive feedback. Conversely, some students express frustration with tutors who they perceive as overly opinionated or unhelpful.
Overall, while students appreciate the strengths of their course, including expert teaching and a rich literary curriculum, they also face various challenges related to assessment, feedback, and support that can impact their learning experience and overall satisfaction.