What are the views of economics students?
Students generally feel they are left to their own devices, with little support from lecturers, particularly when understanding course materials and expectations. There is a sense of frustration regarding the lack of clarity in course structures, module requirements, and assessment guidelines. Many students find it challenging to navigate the system, with some feeling that they are not getting the most out of their education.
The quality of teaching is inconsistent, with some lecturers being more engaging and supportive than others. Students appreciate lecturers who provide clear guidance, feedback, and encouragement but feel disappointed by those who seem disorganised or uninterested. Online resources, such as ELE pages, are seen as a positive aspect, but only when they are kept up-to-date and well-organised.
Assessment and feedback are significant concerns for students, with many feeling that grades are not always fair or transparent. Some students report receiving low grades despite considerable effort, while others feel their work is not adequately recognised. The lack of timely and constructive feedback from lecturers exacerbates these issues.
Students value the freedom to choose modules that align with their interests but sometimes struggle to find suitable options or navigate the course selection process. Some modules are seen as too easy or irrelevant, while others are perceived as overly challenging or poorly resourced.
The transition to honours-level study can be daunting for some students, who feel that they have not been adequately prepared for the increased academic demands. Dissertation support is often inadequate, with students struggling to find suitable supervisors or navigate the submission process.
Overall, students want more support, precise guidance, and better communication from lecturers throughout their studies. They also desire more engaging and relevant course materials and fairer and more transparent assessment processes.