Three quarters of students think their degrees should involve some online teaching

Three in four students think that their education should involve a combination of in-person and online teaching.

As part of of a Tab Instagram poll, 941 respondents opted for the hybrid model while 302 said this would not be preferable.

This comes as the government launches attacks on the universities that are still utilising online teaching methods.

Last month, education secretary Nadim Zahawi told The Sunday Times: “I want to repeat that my expectation of universities is that they deliver face-to-face education.

“They need to deliver it and if students feel they are not getting value for money they should take that up with the Office for Students.”

Writing in The Tab, universities minister Michelle Donelan said: “Face-to-face learning is a vital element of almost every course, and while virtual learning is a fantastic innovation, it should only ever be used to complement and enhance your learning experience, not detract from it.”

But those who responded to the Instagram poll were quick to highlight the possible benefits of online teaching.

Isabelle said a big plus for her was the increased “accessibility for disabled students and those with mental health struggles,” while Olivia believes it’s easier to make notes in online lectures as you can pause, rewind and go over them at your own pace.

Another student said: “As a neurodiverse person, it is easier to take notes and go at my own pace with online lectures.”

However, George conceded that this flexibility can “bread laziness” and when asked what the advantages of online learning were, Ruby said: “Literally none.”

Related articles recommended by this writer:

• Online learning should not be used as a ‘cost saving measure,’ universities minister writes

• After a year of online learning, here’s a list of things I’ve learnt

• Online teaching made students ‘less anxious’ during the pandemic, study claims