What are the views of computer games and animation students?
Students generally feel that their course is intense, with a monumental level of work ahead of them each day, leading to unhealthy means of coping, such as extreme stress and pressure, loss of sleep, and working long hours to meet deadlines. They express concern about the impact on their mental health and well-being.
Some students appreciate the supportive nature of specific tutors knowledgeable in their subject area and provide helpful feedback. However, others feel that some staff members can be unapproachable, with some even being contradictory or dismissive in their feedback.
The course content is often praised for its relevance to industry practices, with opportunities for live projects and networking with companies. Students value the creative freedom they are given but sometimes feel that this comes at a cost, as they may not always receive adequate guidance or support.
Group work can be a challenge, with some students feeling frustrated when things do not go to plan. The lack of alternative arrangements or support for group projects is seen as a significant limitation. Students express a strong desire for more support and resources to navigate these challenges effectively.
Some staff members' teaching methods are criticised for being brief, underdeveloped, and unengaging. There are also concerns about the accuracy of information provided by some staff members, with some students feeling misled or misinformed.
Despite these challenges, many students feel that their course has incredible potential. They appreciate the focus on employability and the chance to build connections with industry professionals, which they believe will significantly enhance their future prospects in the field of computer games and animation.
However, the overall sentiment is that something needs to be done to address the systemic issues causing student stress, pressure, and mental health concerns.