Abigail Chard
BA English in Education
Did you have any initial concerns about studying education before you attended, did they go once you started?
Naturally, I was concerned that I would find it difficult to make friends at university. I soon found that everyone felt the same way as I did and were eager to meet new people. Relationships just developed naturally and without awkwardness.
What aspects of university were you initially most looking forward to and did they meet your expectations?
Before I came to university I was really looking forward to the independence and responsibility that I would have, particularly when living in off-campus accommodation. I think that my time at university helped me to transition into independent adulthood gradually and I always knew that support was there if I needed it.
Which modules are you currently studying / have studied and which have been your favourites on the course and why?
I have studied a wide variety of modules from SEN and Inclusive Education to Studying Literary Texts. My favourites were probably Drama in Education and Education and Social Change because the lecturers were enthusiastic and engaging. The topics themselves were very interesting and, by having a range of assignment topics, the lecturers encouraged us to develop our own specific interests.
Which aspect of teaching on your course do you find the most useful for learning?
The Education Department is unique because it offers a different learning experience to other departments. In general, lecture sizes are quite small (sometimes only 6 or 8 people) which meant that we could participate in the lecture by asking questions and sharing opinions with the lecturer and our peers. I cannot single out any specific staff member as they are all excellent in their own way. I think that each brought something different to the table. Some showed passion, others had extensive knowledge and still others were especially interested in delivering high quality pastoral care. I would be happy to go to anyone in the department if I had a problem.
If you hadn't completed this degree what skills wouldn't you have developed?
I think that the departments focus on volunteering, enrichment and personal development meant that I gained a number of skills I may not have otherwise acquired. The ability to communicate effectively, manage my time wisely and be organized are some vital skills which I developed during my degree. My experiences at university, both academic and extracurricular have taught me to recognize my weaknesses and, instead of being discouraged, to accept when I am wrong and learn from those more knowledgeable than me. I also discovered what my strengths are which has helped me to develop a more appropriate career plan.
What are your plans after your degree?
I will be working as a Residential Fellow in a state boarding school stating in September 2014. After that I hope to complete my teacher training. My goal is to teach overseas in an area where education is not easily accessible.