What are the views of zoology students?

Students studying zoology express various sentiments, from enthusiasm for their course to frustration with various aspects of their educational experience. Many students appreciate the expertise and supportiveness of their lecturers, finding them knowledgeable and approachable. The course's practical components are also frequently highlighted as engaging and valuable.

However, several issues recur in student feedback. One major concern is the impact of strikes on their learning experience, with many students expressing disappointment and frustration at missed lectures, delayed assignments, and reduced access to teaching staff. Some students also find the timetabling and organisation of their course inadequate, citing late publication of timetables and poor management of clashes.

Additionally, students often report difficulties in accessing adequate support for mental health and wellbeing, with long waiting times and limited availability of services being particular issues. Furthermore, some students experience difficulties with IT problems and finding appropriate sources of help.

Despite these challenges, many students value the flexibility of their course and appreciate the range of modules available to them. They also frequently comment on the employability skills they develop through extracurricular activities such as research internships and event organisation.

Some students express dissatisfaction with specific aspects of their learning experience, including unclear expectations for assignments, inadequate feedback, and poor communication from teaching staff. Some also report difficulties in accessing help for medical issues or feeling supported when dealing with personal problems.

Overall, while many students studying zoology are highly engaged with their course and appreciate the support of their lecturers, there are several areas where improvements could be made to enhance the student experience, including addressing the impact of strikes, improving organisational aspects of the course, and expanding access to wellbeing services.

Insights into specific areas of zoology education