New digital teaching and learning survey
Students and staff are being asked for their views on digital teaching and learning to help us improve their experiences.
We usually issue a Jisc survey every two years, with the last being shared in November 2017. But with the covid-19 crisis forcing a significant shift to digital teaching and learning last year, we issued a survey in October 2020 and are now repeating it six months later to allow us to monitor the changing situation more closely.
We also introduced a staff version in 2020 to capture teaching colleagues’ views and enable us to provide the support needed to switch from face-to-face to hybrid learning.
This month’s surveys are almost identical to the ones we sent out last year, as we’re keen to ensure we’re resolving any issues and that students and staff can see those changes happening.
There were some key issues in October that we’ve spent the past few months working hard to resolve:
Many students said they had experienced difficulties with online connections, so we:
- updated guidance on connectivity, internet access and broadband on the IT Knowledge Base
- worked closely with University Residences to enhance connectivity in student accommodation; and
- are now offering an O2 4G Dongle and separate SIM to students who have connectivity problems and who are unable to resolve the issue themselves.
Some students told us they didn’t have access to the right equipment, so we:
- extended the existing University laptop loan scheme, making them available for students unable to fund their own laptop purchase – students can access this through their school support service, or speak to their academic personal tutor for guidance; and
- continue to provide support with the platforms being used to deliver online learning through Skills@Library and LinkedIn Learning and Coursera.
Some students said they were struggling to feel engaged in their online learning, so we:
- provided additional support for colleagues to prepare interactive, engaging, online learning activities; and
- increased the activities to enable students to build communities and get involved, working closely with LUU.
We’re also working with schools to ensure any issues relating to programmes are being addressed directly.
Colleagues in student-facing roles are asked to encourage them to take part in the student survey to ensure we get the broadest range of feedback possible. Everyone who takes part using their University email address will be entered into a draw to win an iPad Pro.
If you’re an academic delivering digital teaching, please complete the staff survey so we can ensure you’re receiving all the support you need to provide the best experience for our students.
Both surveys will remain open until midnight on Sunday 28 March.
Posted in: University newsStudent educationDigital Transformation