Exploring the role of literature in English subjects in students’ personal growth through self-exploration at a private university

Parvetra, Ravinddaran (2026) Exploring the role of literature in English subjects in students’ personal growth through self-exploration at a private university. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study explored how Literature in English subjects offered at a private university influence students’ self-exploration in fostering personal growth as well as identifying which literary works students perceived as most meaningful and the reasons behind such meaningfulness. Guided by Carter and Long’s Personal Growth Model and the Triangular Framework for Curriculum Development, this study employed a qualitative research design where semi-structured interviews were conducted with five university students who had engaged with Literature in English subjects. The data collected were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that Literature in English subjects fostered personal growth through self-expression, awareness of voice and agency, establishment of personal values, empathy and understanding of others, deep understanding as well as learner autonomy. The findings showed that students were able to reflect on themselves, their beliefs, values and perspectives through engagement with literary works, discussions and creative activities conducted within the subjects. In addition, the literary works perceived as most meaningful by the participants included Lamb to the Slaughter, Wuthering Heights, Sambal without Anchovies and students’ own creative works. The meaningfulness of these literary works was influenced by aspects such as unconventionality in literary works, self-identity formation and supportive teaching approaches. However, limitations such as lack of relatability, assessment constraints and dull lesson conduct were also found to affect meaningful engagement with literature. Overall, the study highlights the importance of Literature in English subjects as a space for personal growth, emotional engagement and self-exploration rather than solely academic analysis.

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