Humanistic Perspectives
Group Leader(s): Dr Susannah Wright
About us
The Humanistic Perspectives research group draws together researchers who adopt a variety of humanistic methodologies (e.g. historical, philosophical, literary, anthropological, socio-cultural, narrative analysis, visual and artistic). Our research is varied but addresses arts, humanities, literature, and learning and identity within and beyond typical institutional settings. We are a collegial and productive community which supports members with their communal, and individual, projects. You can find out more about us on our research group website and our blog.
Our aims are to:
- advocate the value of humanistic research within wider educational and societal debates
- explore and contribute to the development of humanistic research methodologies.
Part of
Related courses
- Education Studies (BA (Hons))
Research impact

Prof. Helen Walkington’s research into mentoring research engagement for undergraduate students is recognised globally for its impact on HE pedagogy. For more information about Helen’s work in this field, please see the Salient Practices website. You can also find out about the impact of her research at Durban University of Technology and the University of KwaZulu Natal.
Dr Rachel Payne works on research engagement for artist-teachers in local schools. The local impact of Payne’s research has led to impact at the national level through her role as President for the National Society for Education in Art and Design (NSEAD), and as a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Art, Craft and Design in Education. Payne chairs an Initial Teacher Education Special Interest Group who have successfully lobbied the Department for Education (DfE) to implement £9,000 bursaries for secondary art and design teacher trainees in 2020-21. Payne is one of only eleven UK academics profiled on the ‘Research Impact at the UK Parliament’ website.
Leadership

Dr Susannah Wright
Senior Lecturer in Education Studies and Postgraduate Research Tutor