I first came to York St John University as a mature student in 1994 where I gained my first degree in Theology and Women’s Studies. I then worked as a graduate assistant in the Theology and Religious Studies department from 1997 to 2000 while I studied for my MA in Theology and Religious Studies. Between 2000 and 2002 I worked as a visiting lecturer alongside studying for a PhD at the University of Durham. In 2002 I became a full-time lecturer and completed my PhD in 2006 as well as a PGCE qualification.
Over the last 13 years I have developed and facilitated a range of learning and teaching experiences for my students who take my modules. My approach to teaching is based on my personal belief that a student should graduate with an empathy and knowledge about diverse religious perspectives, enhanced self-awareness and a lifelong desire for learning. My role as a tutor is to provide the contexts to facilitate this.
I teach modules on both the undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Currently I teach on the following modules on the undergraduate course:
- Global Islam
- Religion and Globalisation
- Religion and Myth
- Religion and the Visual Arts
On the postgraduate course I teach Religion, Science and the Arts and Religion and Popular Culture.
In the context of teaching Islam, I have established links with the mosque in York and several in Bradford. I take students to see what happens in a mosque and to have discussions with Muslims which helps them to understand the distinction between media representations of Muslims and the reality of their lives.
As part of the module on Religion and the Visual Arts a colleague and myself take students on a 2 day trip to Glasgow where we visit a range of museums and galleries. This helps students to appreciate how religious art functions in a specific context as well as seeing art in the flesh in order to experience art outside of the classroom.
I am HEA Teaching fellow and was awarded the SEDA certificate in e-learning.
My PhD thesis explored the literary writings of Iris Murdoch, Denise Levertov and Annie Dillard in the context of contemporary mystical theology.
My current research interests include:
- Contemporary mysticism
- Women’s writing and spirituality
- Christianity and the visual arts
- The prophetic function of art and literature in relation to contemporary narratives about war
I remain convinced that literature and art can effect positive change in the world and open up a productive dialogue with religion and politics.
PhD supervision
I am currently supervising Jenny Baker whose PhD thesis explores painting as a theological process.
- Treasurer for TRS (UK) - formerly AUDTRS.
- Member of British Association for the Study of Spirituality.
