Dr Jasper Roe is our new Director of MA Education

Tell us about your research interests within the School of Education

My research focuses on generative AI (GenAI), digital literacies, and academic integrity. I’m interested in how AI is transforming learning and assessment, and how schools and universities can respond thoughtfully and evidence-based. I’m also interested in synthetic media and deepfakes, as well as how people understand and interact with new technologies.

What can students expect from their first few weeks in the School of Education?

The first few weeks should be about getting comfortable, exploring everything on offer, and beginning to feel part of your school and programme. There will be a lot of new things to learn and a lot of information to take in, of course – but we also want to strongly emphasise settling in and feeling at home within the School of Education.

Academically, students can expect to encounter a range of viewpoints and ideas about education early on. We want to encourage questioning norms and exploring big ideas about what education means and how it should be approached.

What do you think makes the School of Education unique?

One of our biggest points of distinction is the breadth of scholarship and interdisciplinary expertise within our academic team. Since joining the School of Education, I've been introduced to a wide range of topics, areas of study, and ways of thinking.

There's also a strong focus on questioning assumptions about education, rather than simply taking the status quo for granted. We encourage reflection on how education works, who it is for, and how it could be improved. This fosters an open, intellectually stimulating environment.

What advice would you give someone thinking of studying in the School of Education?

Be curious and come with an open mind. Studying education is much more than learning how to plan a lesson. It involves thinking about society, culture, technology, policy, psychology, and more! I’d also encourage students to make the most of opportunities to discuss their studies with peers or lecturers. Much of the real learning comes from outside the curriculum and the formal learning space. Conversations and debates are just as much a part of learning, helping to sharpen and shape your thinking.

What have your students gone on to do after graduating from Durham?

Our graduates pursue a wide range of careers – not just teaching. Studying education prepares you to work in areas such as policy, research, the third sector, or educational technology. As a broad, interdisciplinary field, an education degree offers many different paths and equips graduates with unique skills and attributes.

Find out more 

• Dr Jasper Roe is an Assistant Professor in the School of Education.
• The MA in Education provides outstanding opportunities to study a wide range of educational issues.
• Find out more information about our postgraduate taught programmes in Education.