Dr. Katarina Eriksson Barajas

Biography

Katarina Eriksson Barajas is a Professor at Linköping University specializing in interdisciplinary research intersecting literary studies and social science theory. Her ongoing projects focus on the reception of culture through artistic expressions, emphasizing everyday practices and exploring fiction as a didactic tool for education. She has a strong interest in how narratives manifest in fiction, drama, and visual creative media, particularly regarding their use within educational contexts for children and young adults in Sweden. Her research critically examines the ways fiction facilitates educational engagement and the development of literary and linguistic competencies while addressing fundamental social issues and values. Eriksson Barajas employs a discursive analytical approach to study educational practices, enabling pupils and teachers to voice their experiences through the lens of fiction. She is actively involved in supervising PhD students and teaching in the Teacher-Training Programme. Her scholarly output includes detailed analyses of how fictional narratives connect with readers' lives, particularly within ordinary settings and educational practices. Publications include working on reader-responses and the didactic potential of fiction in learning environments, emphasizing its significance in fostering deeper discussions about social themes, including bullying and gender issues.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards