Students entering Higher Education in the current technology focused climate have been referred to as tech savvy ‘digital natives.’ Gen Z are quickly becoming the most diverse generation, as well as the only ones who have no memory of life before the internet. Young people’s minds are constantly whirling with what their next Instagram post is going to be or what the current TikTok trends are. For most, it is an unfamiliar climate and universities are having to act fast to appeal to this advanced and progressive cohort.
In previous years, perhaps a simple website with endless pages of course lists and information would have been substantial for someone trying to decide on a university. However, this is no longer enough to keep a prospective student engaged. The ‘Modern Student’ requires a thoughtful website design, helpful visuals, and user-friendly navigation to keep up with the effective ‘wow’ factor.
Following the impact that the pandemic had on educational institutions, online learning has almost become an expectation for students. Higher education sectors have had to quickly adapt to replacing lectures with active study. Lectures are an efficient and cost-effective way of teaching, but a much less efficient way of study. Online education has allowed for truly immersive and experimental learning, giving students the opportunity to apply learned concepts to life in the real world.
The transition to remote education in 2020 was an abrupt pivot for students across the country. However, one positive that can be taken from the pandemic is that it forced everyone to revaluate the efficiency of time and space. The whole nation has a realisation that learning, working, and communicating from home is in fact logical. The information that can be gained from active learning is ubiquitous (and free) in contrast to paying thousands of pounds to sit through hours of lectures.
Therefore, it is clear to see why students are favouring this way of study. It is fair to say that in years to come, online learning may retire as a ‘trend’ and rather become an expectation of higher education sectors.
We’ve got our fingers on the pulse, so drop us a line at kim.mclellan@hunterlodge.co.uk and let’s chat.
