Dr Jim Dobson

I am currently leading on admissions, recruitment and marketing for the EYCS programme.

Why do I teach?

I teach because I want to make a difference and to help others to develop their knowledge and grow in confidence. My approach to teaching and learning is based on dialogue, respect and trust; many of the units I teach on have space for conversations which help us understand more about ech other and the subjects we are exploring.

When there is a good rapport in a learning space, great things are possible; we can solve problems together, help each other to understand potentially challenging ideas and theories, and have fun in the process. I want my classes to be spaces where you feel relaxed and happy enough to become involved, express opinions, collobarate and challenge your thinking. 

How I’ll teach you

I use a mixed approach of formal input, group discussions and activities linked to the units I teach.

I like to see people happy; I try to encourage laughter - education should be fun, motivational and enlightening.

Why study…

Beause Early Years and Childhood Studies is multi-disciplinary, drawing on sociology, psychology, child development and other subjects, this makes it tremendously interesting, varied and intellectually stimulating. Coupled with this great academic diversity, the programme also offers students to chance to develop professionally, applying the ideas, concepts and theories we have discussed in class to real world experiences.      

Subject areas

Early Years and Childhood Studies

I am currently involved in supervision of students who are on the PGRECS Dissertation and I am a second supervisor on the part time PhD route.    

I began my research career whilst working in local government. Initially, this involved working as a crime analyst in the community safety/policy team, and later as a research project manager in children’s services.

I gained my MA in Crime, Law and Society at Manchester University. My dissertation focused on the coercive elements of the (then) Conservative government’s Respect agenda.

My interest in children, families and crime was a motivating factor in undertaking a PhD, which looked at the impact of imprisonment upon children who have a parent or carer incarcerated.