What are the views of philosophy students?

Students studying philosophy often feel that their academic experience is marred by issues with course organisation, timetabling, and communication from the university administration. Despite this, many students praise their lecturers for being highly organised, supportive, and passionate about teaching.

There are concerns about the lack of face-to-face interaction and social opportunities, particularly when online learning is utilised. Some students feel they are not getting the whole university experience due to the prevalence of pre-recorded lectures and limited opportunities for discussion and debate.

The student-staff ratio appears to be a concern, with some students feeling they do not receive adequate support or feedback from their tutors. This can lead to difficulties in understanding complex philosophical concepts and a sense of disconnection from the academic community.

Assessment methods and marking schemes are also frustrating for some students, who feel these can be unclear, unfair, or overly reliant on independent work. There are concerns about the lack of accommodations made for students with disabilities, particularly when it comes to assessment and support services.

Despite these issues, many students express enthusiasm for the subject matter and appreciate the expertise of their lecturers. They value opportunities for in-depth discussion and analysis, and some students praise specific modules or courses that have allowed them to develop a deeper understanding of philosophical concepts.

However, there is a sense of detachment from the university administration, with some students feeling that they are not being heard or supported. This can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from the academic community.

Overall, students studying philosophy value high-quality teaching, discussion and debate opportunities, and their lecturers' support. However, they face challenges in course organisation, timetabling, communication, and assessment methods, impacting their overall academic experience.