Students and staff praised for adapting to online learning and teaching

March 31, 2020

More than 2,000 hours of classes were delivered to North East Scotland College students in the first week of online learning.

Face to face teaching was suspended from 17 March in response to the Coronavirus outbreak and March 20 marked the start of the College’s temporary digital delivery model.

More than 400 hours of sessions were delivered to more than 1,700 students on the first day of online teaching using the Blackboard Collaborate platform, with daily delivery remaining consistent since then.

Principal Neil Cowie said: “Students, teaching staff and the support teams can all take enormous pride in the way in which they have adapted to the move online. My thanks go to all who have contributed to the transition in what are clearly very challenging circumstances.

“There will no doubt be hurdles to overcome in the weeks ahead, but the attitude and application demonstrated to date gives me great confidence.

“NESCol has a track record of investing in and promoting digital practice as a sector leader in the use of digital technologies for more than 15 years. That has provided a very strong platform to build from.”

Although NESCol facilities are closed, the College’s work is continuing. Applications are being accepted for 2020/21 and a full range of support services continue to be offered to existing students.

Further advice for students is available through the Student Advice Centre team by email at studentadvice@nescol.ac.uk .

Student support payments continue as planned.  This includes EMA, bursary, discretionary, SAAS payments and childcare payments where required.

Neil Cowie added: “Whilst we’re apart physically, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to the social aspects of College life. Staying in touch with friends and classmates as well as the teaching and support staff in the virtual environment will be important for students. There are lots of ways that is already happening, with staff also being encouraged to stay connected with each other as we work in new ways.

“Students and staff will face different challenges and I take great comfort from knowing we are looking out for one another. Whatever the issue, big or small, it is okay to ask for help or to acknowledge if there is a problem, whether personal or course related. The care we show for each other at this time is vital.”

Scottish college sector partners are in dialogue with the national awarding bodies, including the Scottish Qualifications Authority, to decide next steps in relation to the completion of courses. Further information will be shared with students once guidance has been received from the awarding bodies.