Despite various hurdles, UK universities are receiving high praise from students, with a significant rise in perceived value for money and overall satisfaction, according to the 2024 Student Academic Experience Survey.
Increased Satisfaction and Perceived Value
The survey, conducted annually, shows an increase in the number of undergraduates who feel their courses offer good value for money. In 2024, 39% of students rated their experience as “good” or “very good” value, up from 37% in 2023. For international students, this figure was even higher at 45%. Additionally, the percentage of students who view their courses as “poor” or “very poor” value has decreased from 31% to 26%.
Positive Feedback on Teaching and Contact Hours
Despite the backdrop of job cuts, industrial action, and political criticisms of some degree programs, satisfaction with teaching quality, contact hours, and assessments has improved. Jonathan Neves from Advance HE attributes these positive results to the resilience of both students and institutions, which continue to provide a positive educational experience despite ongoing challenges.
International Students’ Satisfaction
International students, who face higher tuition fees and are often at the center of debates about immigration and university places, have notably driven the increase in satisfaction. Their positive feedback has significantly contributed to the overall rise in perceived value.
Decreasing Dropout Rates
The number of students considering leaving their courses has dropped to 25%, down from 30% at the height of the pandemic. This suggests an improvement in student retention and overall satisfaction with their educational experience.
Adaptation to Online Learning and AI
The survey also notes a shift in learning methods, with 69% of students still experiencing some online lectures, though this is down from 90% in 2022. Moreover, 62% of students report using artificial intelligence in their studies, with higher usage among older and international students.
Economic Pressures
Despite the positive feedback, the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect students, who now work an average of 8.2 hours per week, nearly double the 4.6 hours recorded in 2021. Even students in degree apprenticeships, who are paid while they study, report needing additional part-time work due to low salaries.
Future Considerations
Rose Stephenson from the Higher Education Policy Institute highlights the need for policy changes to address the financial pressures on students. She warns that if these issues are not addressed, the traditional model of university education might shift unintentionally towards more flexible learning options due to affordability concerns.
Conclusion
The 2024 Student Academic Experience Survey paints a positive picture of student satisfaction in UK higher education, highlighting the resilience of the sector. However, it also underscores the ongoing economic challenges faced by students and the need for strategic policy interventions to support them.
Stephen Smith CEO Illuminare Education Ltd, June 13, 2024