When we launched the latest learning environment survey in late 2020, it was headed ‘Your opinion counts’. These were not empty words, mind you, because DTU is constantly working to improve its learning environment, and in these efforts, every response counts.
Last autumn, all students were asked to give their opinion of the learning environment by responding to an UddannelsesZOOM questionnaire. It was made up of 150 questions; most of which applied to all higher education programmes in Denmark and only 29 were specific to DTU.
I am very pleased that no less than 32 per cent of you took the time to answer the numerous questions. And I can promise you that we will use every answer to further improve the learning environment, thereby laying the groundwork on which you and coming DTU students can prosper and make the most of the years you study here.
The survey results indicate a high level of satisfaction with DTU’s learning environment. Overall, 91 per cent give a high rating to the quality of their study programme and rate the academic environment at DTU as good and feel there is good contact with the faculty staff and that lecturers and fellow students are enthusiastic. 79 per cent find that there is a good social environment, and 79 per cent generally feel quite comfortable in their study programme.
At the same time, the vast majority are satisfied with the help and guidance they receive from student guidance, international study services, heads of studies, and DTU Library in particular.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the fact that we all had to work and study from home put a stop to many things at DTU and throughout society, and when we return to more normalized study routines in September, we will have a strong focus on the study start and on restarting a rewarding learning environment on DTU campuses for all students.
Some students have begun their studies at DTU with almost no physical presence on campus. Naturally, it has been difficult for them to establish a crucial social network and, with such a short time on campus, it has been harder for them to get properly integrated into the study programme. Therefore, this year, the heads of studies, PF student association and the Office for Study Programmes and Student Affairs will in particular focus on establishing a rewarding social and academic learning environment, which we know is essential for each student’s well-being and for completing their study programme satisfactorily.
Stress
Stress is another focus area in our well-being efforts. Not only do many survey respondents state that they experience stress symptoms, the various counselling centres at DTU are also being contacted by more and more students who feel stressed.
Students must meet rigorous demands in the study programme, and for some the shift from high school to a study programme with more freedom and, thus, more responsibility for one’s own learning can be challenging. Many develop stress symptoms if they feel they are falling behind with their studies or simply aren’t up to the task. We take this very seriously, because stress can undermine your daily life if you feel unable to meet expectations—both personal and from your surroundings—and feel unable to cope with the study programme, interact with your fellow students, and handle life in general.
At DTU, we have a comprehensive system for taking care of students suffering from an actual stress disorder for whatever the reason. In addition, several times a year we offer anti-stress courses with psychologists, in both Danish and English. Last year we also initiated an experiment with a voluntary online course ‘Common Mindset’, which, among other things, introduces a variety of tools aimed at counteracting the zero-fault culture and unrealistic perceptions of performance standards. Also, we hope that many more students will benefit from these initiatives in the academic year ahead.
Back on campus
According to the survey, 82 per cent feel that the classrooms at DTU work well and are properly cleaned. And 83 per cent think that the physical facilities at DTU are inviting and pleasant to be in.
In recent years, several large auditoriums have been rebuilt and adapted to new forms of learning, and we are also in the process of improving the outdoor environment. Last autumn, we introduced new covered outdoor facilities with seating areas and games, blankets, and the possibility of buying hot drinks at Lyngby Campus. And we are focused on implementing a brand-new campus plan at Ballerup Campus, as well.
Now that summer has arrived, I hope you will enjoy it to the fullest and recharge your batteries for a new academic year. And I look forward to welcoming all of you back to campus in September.