Q&A with Professor Rachael Levy

Professor Rachael Levy is a Professor of Literacy, and the Director of the Centre for Teacher and Early Years Education at IOE.

How did you come to join IOE?
As an academic with a special interest in literacy as a social practice, I knew that I would have the opportunity to work with many colleagues with world-leading expertise in the field of literacy at IOE. The wealth of opportunity at IOE is remarkable. In addition I am also working with a dynamic body of students which is a pleasure and a privilege.

What is the focus of your research?
My research has always focused on young children’s reading, beginning with my doctoral research to investigate young children’s perceptions of reading, and more recently to explore shared reading practices and motivations for shared reading in disadvantaged homes.  As a result I have a deep interest in the socio-cultural factors that influence a wide variety of literacy practices and events, as well as the ways in which literacy practices change and develop over time. This has inspired me to work with other colleagues to develop the module Literacy In a Changing World, which will be a core module on the Education (Literacy) MA.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?
I am very proud of my research into shared reading practices in homes, which is now published as a book and three journal articles. 

I am also proud of the work I have implemented on the Early Years Education MA and Primary Education MA Research Methods and Dissertation modules, together with my colleague Sinead Harmey, particularly in response to the Covid pandemic. We have found a way to not only create online and hybrid teaching resources, but also to ensure that we work effectively and collaboratively with all students whatever the logistical situation.

What's the most important thing you've learned from your students?
I have learned a lot from my students but I think one of the most important things is for me appreciate the impact of cultural context on the various issues and topics we explore on our programmes. For example I am developing a growing understanding of the Chinese educational context, which is highly beneficial for my teaching and my research as well as my personal growth as an individual.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?
I love the intellectual challenge that is associated with all aspects of my job. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and find it inspiring to work with our students; it is particularly rewarding to witness the journeys that students make throughout their studies and watch them develop their own interests and expertise. I am also passionate about literacy research and very much enjoy contributing towards current knowledge in the field.

Do you think being London-based benefits the work you do?
Being part of a large university in London carries a wealth of opportunity. London channels a vibrancy and energy that is reflected in the day-to-day life of UCL. There is no shortage of resources, human or otherwise, which has huge benefits for students and staff. 

What other subjects outside of your area of specialism interest you?
I am very interested in gender and the ways in which gender, and gendered constructions, can influence an individual’s opportunities within education and beyond.

Professor Rachel Levy

Professor Rachael Levy's research profile

Courses and teaching

(facebook button)(tweet button)

Last updated on 1 October 2024.