Student Technology Survey, Fall 2020
This fall, most face-to-face courses will be delivered online with instructors teaching remotely. In 
an effort to help with planning for the realities of remote instruction and remote learning, Memorial completed a student survey to gain a better understanding of their technological capabilities.
The survey was developed by CITL in conjunction with CIAP, ITS and representatives from faculties, schools and campuses, with feedback from students.
Students eligible to register for the Fall 2020 semester were invited to complete the survey, which asked a range of questions focused on device access, operating systems, internet speed, data plans, comfort levels in using various technologies and more.
Instructors may find these results helpful to inform their plans for teaching remotely this fall.
View an infographic summary of the results.
Download a complete summary of the results. (PDF)
If you have questions about the survey, please direct them to Thomas Hawkins, assistant
director of technology, CITL.
Analysis on Student Needs
In one long answer question, students were asked:
What will you need to help you in completing your course work in the fall semester? Some examples include, but are not limited to: access to software, particular services, additional information, academic accommodations, or access to a system. Please provide details below or leave text box empty.
Responses to this long answer question allow us to dive deeper into the challenges students face. Major themes consist of the:
- tension between asynchronous and synchronous delivery methods;
- availability of help (discipline-specific help centres, technology help, library resources, various student supports);
- desire for lecture recordings, online notes and a detailed schedule of course activities and course requirements; and
- availability of instructors for online office hours.
Running through all the major concerns outlined by students is the need for better communication, more information, understanding and flexibility on behalf of instructors and administration.