READING ADVICE
Reading theory texts is often seen as difficult and
highly demanding. It is certainly true that a number of original thinkers are
difficult to follow. We usually need to know as much as possible about the
context of their thought. However, the number of thinkers in this category is
not large. The far greater problem is the vast number of secondary source texts
that develop and expand on thought in connection with general problems and
issues. Reading either Hegel or Habermas is hard going and no one would deny
this. But reading some of the commentaries and recent sets of explanatory
materials can be worse. There is often a feeling that the secondary source is
getting in the way and I think that generally this is true.
I want to give you some suggestions for reading that
are taken from Peter Barry's Beginning Theory (1995). This book is aimed
at undergraduate students on English Literature courses (and of course other
literatures). Barry's main idea is worth restating and developing for all social
theory students no matter which course they are on:
When confronted by a difficult chapter or article
break the reading task down into five stages:
S - Survey the whole chapter or section or article
fairly quickly. This is a skim read in 25-35 minutes. Pay particular attention
to the opening and closing paragraphs or sections.
Q - Now that you have skim read the paper ask
yourself some questions about it. These may be 'what is this about'? or 'how
does this help me with my essay'? Hopefully the questions will be more like 'how
can I use these ideas in my research topic'? or 'where does this line of thought
take us with respect to such and such issue?'
R1 - Now read the whole section/chapter/article.
Underline key points and use the highlight pen if necessary. But instead of just
highlighting points of interest or points you want to remember try to jot down
questions you want to ask of the text. What are the things you don't understand?
These are the things you may want to take up with your tutor.
R2 - Close the book or paper and recall what you
have read. Spend 10 minutes just jotting down your summary points. Then look at
your initial questions and se ehow far your notes help you to answer them. Only
now make a list of possible issues for discussion with a tutor or colleague.
R3 - Review stage now - leave the text for a couple
of days. Review what you read and have another fresh look at your questions. If
you find yourself unable to answer your questions do a speed survey and quick
re-read of the article and try again. Only after doing that should you try to
contact your tutor.
I am not trying to keep you away from tutors! But
everyone finds it helpful to have a tutorial on a genuine question. Once you
have done all the above and are still stuck it is sensible to approach a tutor
and make sure they know you have worked through all the above stages. Do not
feel embarassed because you are asking a tutor for advice on understanding. This
is one of our tasks. The important point is to be able to demonstrate you have
gone through all the stages set out above.