Are we nearly there yet? Students’ thoughts on lockdown learning and returning to campus

University students look forward to in-person teaching after feeling less motivated in lockdown.

Isaac Middleton, aged 19, studies Popular Performance at Leeds Conservatoire. He had just cancelled his accommodation lease when the Government announced that his course may return from 8 March.

Working from home in Lancaster, he said: “At the moment it feels like every day is exactly the same.

“I’ve got no motivation.”

Although he will now have to commute two hours a day by train, he wishes to collaborate with fellow musicians.

Mr Middleton said: “I like people and socialising in general, and I want more of that.”

“It’s very hard to play music with people when you’re not in the same room as them.”

The University of Salford is allowing some practical modules to return to campus from 8 March, with the majority of courses going back from 12 April.

Students will be encouraged to book two lateral flow tests per week via their Advantage account.

22-year-old, UoS Biomedical student, Fabian Burley said: “I think what I’m most looking forward to as someone doing a scientific, hands-on course is being able to do things practically.”

Heather Green, aged 21 is in her second year of studying Marine Biology at the University of Salford.

She believes her motivation has decreased during lockdown.

She said: “I think it is quite taxing being in the same room to do all of this; especially if you’re in shared housing, it’s quite difficult to keep yourself to yourself so you’re not disturbing other people, but then you get quite confined and isolated.”

Online teaching will continue, but hopefully with reducing numbers of coronavirus cases students will be back in lecture theatres soon.

For student support services and to book lateral flow tests, visit the University of Salford Student Hub.