November 15, 2024

Students are helping to shape the digital experience for future learners

Author: jess.moore@jisc.ac.uk
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Launching tomorrow, Tuesday 3 September, Jisc’s 2019 digital experience insights student survey report will show how learners at UK colleges and universities experience technology. Shakira Martin reflects on the value of the survey.

We know that 60% of jobs not yet created will be digital – which is why it’s essential to immerse digital technologies within learning environments, equipping students with the skills and knowledge they’ll need to thrive in the workplace.During my time as NUS president, I saw first-hand the ways in which digital technology is already being used to enhance teaching, learning and inclusion. Students are not just training for a job, but for a global career.[#pullquote#]Students are not just training for a job, but for a global career.[#endpullquote#]Sharing insightsThis year, 29,531 participants from 50 institutions – including further education colleges, sixth form colleges, universities and higher education institutions – have told us about the technologies they encounter.They’ve shared their attitudes towards digital technologies and described their digital learning experiences. Their voices contribute to the data set that has been collected annually since the initial survey was launched in 2016. More than 100,000 students have now had their say and are helping to shape the digital experience for future learners.Maximising valueColleges and universities already invest heavily in technology and digital, so it is vital that they understand how their students are using the technology– what works well and where improvements can be made.[#pullquote#]this report will reveal that, while student satisfaction levels are generally high, there are areas where we all need to work together to address issues[#endpullquote#]At a national level, this report will reveal that, while student satisfaction levels are generally high, there are areas where we all need to work together to address issues – such as improving students’ knowledge, understanding and confidence in understanding data privacy and protecting their wellbeing.Embracing changeEducation leaders can use this report to better understand and enhance their students’ digital experience. I also recommend universities and colleges take advantage of the advice and support provided by Jisc to embrace a digital approach to issues such as curriculum design and the learning environment.Finally, I call on all universities and colleges to work in partnership with their students to ensure they are providing the best possible education experience – one in which digital technology is integrated. We must offer opportunities for all learners to develop the skills they need to thrive in today’s ever-more connected and fast-changing world.Sign up now to run Jisc digital experience insights surveys for students, teaching and professional services staff from October 2019.

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