Exploring the Experiences of English Literature and Language Students: Aligning Passion with Learning

Higher education plays a crucial role in the personal and professional development of individuals. While there are diverse fields of study available, this blog post focuses on the English Literature and Language major. Often misunderstood as merely a means to improve English communication skills, this field encompasses a broader scope that encompasses literature, art, and culture. To gain insight into the experiences of English Literature and Language students, a survey was conducted among students at Airlangga University's English Literature and Language Department. The aim was to determine whether students felt their chosen major aligned with their expectations and to understand the reasons underlying their suitability for this field.

Survey Findings

The survey consisted of five questions answered by 30 respondents. Let's delve into the key findings:

Suitability of the Chosen Program: When asked about the suitability of their chosen program, 63.3% of respondents considered it "highly suitable," while 16.7% believed it was "suitable." Only 20% perceived it as "not suitable." This demonstrates that a majority of students feel their major aligns well with their aspirations.

Reasons for Choosing English Literature and Language: When asked about their reasons for selecting English Literature and Language, 73.3% of respondents indicated that it aligned with their interests and talents, making the learning process enjoyable and comprehensible. Additionally, 20% stated that they chose this major as an alternative to their preferred program, while 16.7% cited financial constraints and limited knowledge as contributing factors.

Alignment with Expectations: The survey revealed that 73.3% of students felt that the English Literature and Language program aligned with their expectations, indicating that they had made an informed decision. The remaining 16.7% mentioned financial considerations, personal interests, and talents as factors that influenced their perception.

Impact of Mismatch on the Learning Process: The majority of respondents (73.3%) reported that the mismatch between their expectations and the program had no significant impact on their learning process. However, 16.7% admitted that it did affect their learning experience, while 10% felt that the mismatch had no influence on their learning.

Consideration of Switching Programs: When asked if their experience of this mismatch led them to consider switching to another program, 73.3% of students indicated that they would consider switching. Conversely, 23.3% stated they would not entertain such a change, and only 3.4% expressed thoughts of switching majors.

Based on the survey findings and discussions presented, it can be concluded that English Literature and Language students find their chosen major suitable and feel capable of tackling the learning process. The reasons cited for perceived unsuitability primarily revolved around financial factors and alternative preferences. Therefore, the English Literature and Language program aligns with the interests and talents of these students. This indicates that students who choose this field do not experience a disconnect between societal misconceptions and the actual learning process in the classroom.