Meet your Social Justice and Globalisation in Education Lecturer- Paula Hamilton

1. How did you get into the field of study you’re currently in?

After graduating from teacher training, I gained employment as a research fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University working on the Healthy Schools initiative. Once the project came to an end, I lectured in further education for 10 years on early childhood and health and social care programmes before entering higher education in 2007.

2. What sort of research do you largely focus on?

My research focuses on aspects of inclusion, diversity and equality related to children and young people. My key area of publication relates to gender, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children, EAL children and, more recently, children’s understanding of special educational needs and disability.

3. What course are you teaching at the University?

I work across a number of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the School of Education (CEPD), mainly teaching social justice, inclusion and diversity education, in particular looking at issues impacting children and young people. I also teach research design and methods which helps to prepare students for their final dissertation / research projects. At MA level, I teach human rights and reflective practice, a module designed to help students gain the academic skills necessary to transition to postgraduate study.

4. What do you love most about teaching the MA in Social Justice and Globalisation in Education?

The rich diverse backgrounds of students. The strong sense of identity that students develop while on the course. The powerful exchange of learning that takes place from a global perspective. The generous exchange of personal and professional experiences offered by students in relation to children, childhood and social issues and inequalities faced within society.

5. What are the benefits of studying this course?

Deep appreciation of human diversity and social justice, and approaches adopted by settings and countries to address diversity, promote equality, and tackle disadvantage. Continued migration has led to increasingly diverse communities and work settings, which makes this understanding essential. The course is also incredibly suitable for students who have commitments outside of their studies such as family or work. Teaching takes place over 1/1.5 days per week, allowing for that work/life/study balance.

6. What are the key things students will learn on the course?

A range of issues linked to children and childhood, poverty, ethnicity, gender equality, mental health and disability, human rights, globalisation of education, reflective practice, community engagement, research design/skills relating to education or social science.

7. What is the learning community like on the course?

There is a close-knit relationship between students and between students and tutors. Tutors value the backgrounds of all students and encourage students to share their experiences and skills in sessions. Students support with marketing events, the transition of new students and are encouraged to collaborate with tutors on research projects. Where students have professional or in-depth personal knowledge about issues being studied, they are sometimes invited to share in the delivery of sessions.

8. What have students gone on to do after graduating?

Many students continue to work in education (primary, secondary, further education, special education) either as teachers or administrators. Some have set up their own online tutoring services. Community posts students have progressed to include police work and children’s residential care. Increasingly, students are using the MA as a stepping stone to doctoral study.

9. What would you recommend to students who are looking into getting into your area of study?

Have an interest/strong desire to make positive social change for children, young people and marginalised groups. Focusing on the needs and wellbeing of individuals, valuing the diversity people bring, can lead to more inclusive, collaborative and positive environments, where all have a chance to belong, succeed, and thrive.

10. Any final thoughts on the University experience to share?

Work hard, form a close working relationship with peers and tutors and make the most of all the learning and support opportunities open to you whilst on the programme. Students who follow this advice thrive on the course and grow academically, professionally and personally.

Make sure to check out our MA in Social Justice and Globalisation in Education course page for more information about how you can start your next steps to help others all over the world.