UCC is entering a period of significant change, the new Academic Strategy aims to build connections to provide curricular coherence and to enhance the student experience

Student Survey.ie is a powerful tool for supporting enhancement of the experience of students and staff in higher education

The feedback that you provide is integral in order to improve the quality of services that UCC provides on your student journey.

1. You said that you would like additional supports around digital literacy skills

UCC’s newly launched Digital Master Plan aims to develop world class digital education services, to support staff and student needs for flexibility and accessibility, including further developments on Microsoft Teams, Canvas, Panopto, and classroom technology. Additionally, our weekly Student IT Tips and Tricks is a new initiative to help students navigate common IT issues and keep up to date with new technologies.

2. You asked for a place of relaxation and calm

Having a space for our students to go that they know would be calm and predictable environment was a high priority. The Calm Zone or An Ceantar Ciúin is located in the Old College Bar building and is a space designed to be a place of respite and calm for students, and in particular students on the autism spectrum. The areas included a Reception & Open Plan Area, Workshop Space, Sensory Rooms 1 & 2 and Respite Rooms & Eating Spaces.

3. You said that you love the library as it plays a fundamental role in enhancing your learning experience.

We were so pleased that our Boole Library remained open during lockdown. We work together with staff and our Student Union to provide services and supports necessary for students to study in a safe environment. Now the Boole Library opens each day from 7.30am – 1.30am providing a stable online connection and warm place to study.

4. You asked for enhanced supports to look after your health and wellbeing, both mental and physical during a challenging time.

We know that COVID-19 has changed life as we know it and has had a big impact on your wellbeing. As we move forward, the UCC Keep Well website was developed as a resource to enable you to look after your health and wellbeing. Some key enhancements include the establishment of SilverCloud, the Everyday Matters series.

5. You said that the ability to rewatch lectures was really helpful, particularly around examination time.

More rooms are equipped with lecture capture capabilities ensuring lectures can be recorded and made available on Canvas.