What are students saying about personal development?
Students generally feel that their time in higher education provides valuable opportunities for personal development, allowing them to expand their critical thinking skills, become more confident, and develop their knowledge and skills in various areas.
Many students appreciate the hands-on approach of their courses, which enables them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations and develop practical skills that will be useful in their future careers. Others value the chance to hone in on specific topics that interest them, creating their path and specialising in areas they are passionate about.
Students also highly value the development of transferable skills such as presentation, teamwork, creativity, critical thinking, and written communication. They see these skills as essential for success in their chosen fields. Students also appreciate the opportunities to develop strong narratives and storytelling abilities, which they believe will serve them well in their future careers.
While some students feel that certain modules or courses are more effective than others in promoting personal development, overall, there is a sense of appreciation for the support and guidance provided by lecturers and academic staff. Students often comment on how encouraging and helpful their tutors have been, providing constructive feedback that has helped them grow and develop.
However, some students express frustration with certain aspects of their courses, such as the amount of material covered or the format of assessments, which they feel can sometimes get in the way of developing necessary skills. Despite these minor criticisms, however, the overall trend is one of positivity and appreciation for the opportunities provided by higher education to promote personal development and growth.