Understanding the student experience in UK higher education from the perspectives of students and staff through the new Placecube White Paper
Looking at factors including onboarding, resources and technology, student services, and future teaching changes, Placecube reports on how happy students and staff are with their University experience.
Onboarding
The initial weeks at University are essential for creating friendships and establishing support networks. It’s also a period where students should navigate their new surroundings.
How individuals feel about their onboarding experience influences their overall student experience and how they feel they can connect and settle into their new life. Students who rate their onboarding experience as poor are six times more likely to rate their overall experience as poor than those with a positive onboarding experience.
38% of students, nearly 2 in 5, rated their onboarding experience as poor to average
41% of staff felt the onboarding experience was poor to average
Students were asked about the top five things offered when onboarding at the University and what they wished were offered.
It was found that staff prioritise providing information on available resources and introducing career resources. Staff believe assigning a buddy for student questions is important, while only 20% of students agree.
Technology
If students rate the learning experience positively, they are likelier to rate their overall experience as good. Regarding resources such as libraries, research databases, and labs, 69% of staff and students expressed satisfaction, while 31% expressed unhappiness or rated them as merely ‘OK.’
Resources have a significant impact on enhancing the positive aspect of the learning experience, with a factor of four.
Technology also has a positive correlation with the overall learning experience. Students who are happy with the technology are 13 times more likely to have a positive overall learning experience.
Student services
Student services and support significantly shape students’ perceptions of their overall student experience. Students who view student services positively are 14 times more likely to rate their student experience better.
Student services are
- A vital component of the broader student experience.
- Essential resources for personal development.
Approximately 69% of staff and students expressed satisfaction with the University’s student support services, while 31% found the services average or inadequate.
According to student feedback, the most vital services are those related to promoting diversity and inclusion, which aim to create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for students from diverse backgrounds. These are closely followed in importance by mental health and wellbeing services, support for self-development, financial assistance, and career-related services and events. On the other hand, counselling, mentoring, sports facilities, and health support services are rated as less important by students.
Career
Career services are a significant aspect of student support, and students have expressed their desire to see these services offered during onboarding. Additionally, students dealing with work-life balance challenges have identified career services as something that could assist them.
7% of students feel unprepared for the workforce, while over 1 in 5 are still determining their level of preparedness (27%).
Regarding preparedness, more than half of the students (52%) have emphasised the importance of skills-based workshops, such as interview techniques, leadership courses, and presentation skills.
Creating a positive student experience
The student journey at a university is vital. Initial weeks are crucial for students to settle in, connect socially and academically, and understand available resources. Onboarding sets the tone for the entire university experience. Social activities, both small and large, create a sense of belonging.
Technology supports hybrid learning and effective communication about course updates and events, and post-graduation, maintaining connections with the University and alums offers valuable opportunities for students.
The education sector is evolving rapidly due to COVID-19 and is driven by technology adoption. Universities addressing technological challenges will excel in enhancing the educational experience and student success.
