Alumna Lecture on “Introduction to Literary Research: Where and How to Begin”

The Department of Languages (Rahul Sankrityayan Subharti School of Linguistics and Foreign Languages), Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, organized an Alumna Lecture on “Introduction to Literary Research: Where and How to Begin” on 11th July, 2026. The lecture was delivered by Ms. Monika Shikahala, an alumna of the Department of English and a Ph.D. Research Scholar in English. The session was organized to acquaint students with the fundamentals of literary research and to provide practical guidance on initiating research in English studies.

Objectives:

1. To familiarize students with the fundamentals of literary research and the process of initiating research work.
2. To guide students in identifying research problems, selecting suitable research topics, understanding research methodology, and exploring the scope of literary research in English studies.

Summary of the Session

The programme commenced with a formal welcome to the speaker, followed by an introduction highlighting her academic journey as an alumna of the Department of English. Ms. Monika Shikahala began the lecture by explaining the significance of literary research in the field of English studies and emphasized the importance of systematic inquiry, critical thinking, and academic integrity in research.

During the session, she provided detailed insights into identifying research problems, selecting appropriate research topics, reviewing literature, and adopting suitable research methodologies. She also discussed the importance of originality, ethical research practices, and effective academic writing. Drawing upon her own research experience, she encouraged students to develop analytical skills, remain intellectually curious, and approach literary research with confidence and dedication.

The lecture concluded with an interactive discussion in which students raised questions related to research writing, topic selection, and higher studies. The speaker addressed their queries and motivated them to pursue research as an integral part of their academic and professional growth.

Outcomes of the Event

1. Students gained a clear understanding of the basic concepts, methods, and processes involved in literary research.
2. The lecture enhanced students’ awareness of research methodology and inspired them to undertake academic research with confidence and a systematic approach.

The programme was coordinated by Ms. Soni Chauhan, Assistant Professor, Department of Languages, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut. The lecture witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, including Dr. Seema Sharma (Head, Department of Languages), Dr. Rafat Khanam, Dr. Manisha Luthra, Ms. Bhavana Joshi, Dr. Ashish Kumar, Dr. Nishi Raghav, Dr. Preeti Sharma, Ms. Sanya Agrawal, Dr. Shipra, Dr. Akanksha, and Dr. Vijay, along with students of the B.A. and M.A. programmes. The session was highly informative and concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the speaker for her insightful lecture and valuable guidance. The event successfully encouraged students to develop a research-oriented mindset and explore the field of literary research with greater enthusiasm.