Grades, mental health suffering as U of A lets online learning standards slip, says student union
CBC
The quality of remote learning at the University of Alberta has slipped to unjustifiable lows and immediate action is needed to help students complete the term, says the president of the student union.
"Students are furious and frustrated that the quality of education we have paid for has not been delivered in the last three weeks," said Rowan Ley, University of Alberta Students' Union president.
Virtual lectures and online exams have been challenging since the pandemic's start but this term has been particularly problematic with basic standards not being met, Ley said.
"We've seen issues like unauthorized, highly invasive and discriminatory online proctoring … and a lack of accessibility measures being taken for students who are stuck in other time zones or have weak internet access, by no fault of their own," Ley said.
Among the wide-ranging list of financial and academic concerns cited in a Wednesday news release, the student union said some faculties were posting old lectures online.
"Students are upset about paying hundreds of dollars per course just to watch years-old YouTube clips without class engagement," it said.
The news release also included 13 proposals to help alleviate concerns.
Steven Dew, provost and university vice-president, said in a statement that his office is reviewing the complaints and encouraged students to seek out existing supports.
"The Dean of Students Office offers many supports and resources to help students navigate remote learning successfully, and can work with students to resolve concerns or challenges with their courses," Dew said.
The student union did a survey between Jan. 25 and 31 after fielding numerous student complaints about the winter term. It got responses from 1,238 students.
About one-quarter of respondents said they are expected to attend midterm exams in person, even though classes will be online until Feb. 28. The student union wants the university to clarify the situation.
Students who don't live in Edmonton should not be asked to travel to the city for a single exam, Ley said.
Students also want the university to address internet connectivity issues — including how connection failures during exams will be handled — and ensure all lectures are recorded.
The most pressing concern is the use of online proctoring, Ley said.