University in 2020

The coronavirus has caused disruption, upheaval and uncertainty for students preparing for university in 2020. Not only are their results based on calculated grades - as opposed to final exam performance - but what will university even look like in 2020?

UK universities have suggested a number of ways to deliver the university experience whilst keeping everyone safe.

Blended learning

• Universities are proposing a mix of teaching styles in the autumn of 2020: a 'blended learning' approach
• Due to the large number of students present during lectures, it would be difficult to adhere to social distancing measures. Therefore, many universities are proposing to deliver lectures online
  • The technology for delivering lectures online - and experience of using this methodology - was already widely in place prior to COVID-19. It was common for teaching staff to video record lectures and then make those sessions available online, often referred to as lecture capture. It was a useful tool for students who missed a session and needed to catch up or if they found a concept difficult to grasp - it provided them with the opportunity to review it again
• Small group sessions - such as seminars, practicals and labs - teaching staff aim to deliver in-person
  • Students tend to find small group sessions particularly helpful: they may feel more confident to ask questions in a group of 10-15 - as opposed to an audience of 100+ in a lecture theatre - plus it’s easier to connect with other students in a smaller group

Socialising

• Universities understand how important the social aspect of university life is, particularly for new students, since this is a natural way to form friendships: through shared interests. In recognition of this, universities are committing to putting events in place for Freshers
  • Online events for students who are unable to attend in-person
    
  • Outdoor events where social distancing can be maintained
    
  • On-campus space for clubs and societies to meet, whilst maintaining social distancing

 
Campus Adaptations

• Students – or their parents – might be feeling anxious about safety at university. Universities are implementing a range of practical measures to keep everyone safe, for example:
  • Clear instructions on how space is to be used
  • Enhanced cleaning of shared spaces
  • Spaced seating
  • Dedicated entrances and exits
  • One-way routes around campus
  • Hand sanitising stations
  • Social distancing markers

Accommodation

• If students are moving into university-owned accommodation - halls and colleges - they'll be allocated a date and time to arrive
  • This staggering of arrival ensures that limited numbers of students are milling around entrances and common areas, such as lobbies and stairwells, at any one time
• When students move into their accommodation, it’s proposed they form new households/bubbles
  • They may be allocated a room in a flat with other students on their course. This is to reduce the likelihood of transmission across the university if someone in their household tests positive for the virus

 
International students

• If students arrive from overseas, they may be required to isolate. Universities will bring forward arrival times so those students are able to quarantine, and receive support, prior to the beginning of term

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Universities may provide students with PPE. It may be provided in particular circumstances, for example, masks and gloves for wearing during lab work
• However, students should bring their own masks (which should be of at least two, if not three, layers), hand sanitiser (of at least 65% alcohol content) and hand soap

Enhanced Mental Health Support

• Universities recognise that starting university in 2020 is more challenging than in other years
• Support for students' mental health, specific to the impact of COVID-19, will be available
• Students can access support from a variety of sources, including their personal tutor, Student Union support services (including counsellors and Buddy groups), their GP, the Samaritans, MIND, Student Mind and Papyrus

These proposals are based on current thinking (July 2020) and are subject to change