The title of an ALT 2021 caught my attention tonight: “How are students experiencing their learning online?” presented by Sarah Knight and Clare Killen. Knight talked about the data they collected and “listening to the voices of our learners and students” with 62,658 student responses to the 2020/2021 surveys focusing on the online learning context in the UK. The surveys focused on how the experience of online learning was received. Respondents appreciated the efforts that institutions made to ensure that online learning continued. They also reported the advantages of learning online include working at their own pace in safe environments and the cost savings. Barriers and challenges were also reported. The top problems encountered in online learning reported were: poor wifi connection, access to online platforms/services, mobile data costs, need for specialist software, no safe/private area to work, and no suitable computer or device. Knight mentioned that students from certain places reported these barriers more often. Killen spoke about the learning environment that students reported. In higher education in the UK, 53% of respondents reported positive quality of online courses (“well designed”), with 45% stating that the level and pace were appropriate. The range of learning activities was wide and included 84% in higher education using live lecture/teaching sessions, 82% accessed recorded lectures, and 79% accessed other course materials. Students, unfortunately, felt like they didn’t have the digital skills needed for their course work (41% reported having the support). The positive aspects of online learning reflected in student quotes centered on flexibility, time to study, learners valued interaction and small groups. The negative aspects reported by students were lack of interactive, difficulty accessing the platforms, work overload, and fatigue/lack of concentration. When asked what one thing to do to improve, students asked for support for the teaching staff, streamlined learning environment… The presenters ended by discussing opportunities for revising and improving. The next UK student survey is coming out soon, and I wonder if similar trends will continue or online learners will get “used to” digital platforms and learning?
