What are students saying about the cost of university and value for money?
Students overwhelmingly express frustration, disappointment, and disillusionment with the costs and value of money in UK higher education. Many feel that they are not getting a quality education commensurate with their high tuition fees. They are disheartened by the lack of contact hours, inadequate support services, and what they perceive as a poor learning experience.
Students are frustrated with the limited availability of resources, facilities, and opportunities, which they believe should be provided, given their pay. Some feel they are being treated as mere customers rather than valued members of an academic community. Many question where their money is going, suggesting that it seems to be lining the pockets of senior administrators rather than being invested in teaching and learning.
There is a disconnection between students' expectations and the reality of their experience. Students feel that they are not getting value for money, particularly compared to other countries or modes of education. Some have considered alternative options, such as online courses or studying abroad, which they perceive as offering better value for money.
Many students also worry about the financial burden of higher education. They worry about the impact of debt on their prospects and feel that they are being priced out of education. There are calls for greater transparency and accountability in how tuition fees are spent and for more support to be provided to struggling students.
Overall, students' comments convey a deep-seated sense of discontent with the current state of higher education funding in the UK. They demand better value for money, improved teaching and learning experiences, and greater future investment.
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