be taught partially online from September, regardless of changes to coronavirus restrictions at a national level. Meanwhile, Heriot-Watt University and Glasgow University said decisions had not yet been taken on whether teaching would include an element of online learning. However, many institutions will expect students to live on campus, unlike last year, when they were able to stay in their family homes or elsewhere while continuing their degrees online.
A document published by the government earlier this month gave outline guidance to colleges and universities for the new academic year – assuming that by the time of the new term, Scotland would be operating beyond level 0 restrictions. It does not specifically ban in-person lectures. Instead, it instructed institutions to “consider the need, in specific circumstances, for limiting direct face-to-face learning involving very large numbers of students” – however, they were urged to ensure that this is done “without detriment to learning or the overall student experience”. More detailed guidance is expected before the start of the new term.
A general, country-wide move to “beyond level 0” is set to be confirmed by Ms. Sturgeon next week and would be in force from 9 August.
A spokesman for Universities Scotland, which represents Scottish universities, stated that “Following the publication of Scottish Government guidance, we’re anticipating a general resumption of the in-person experience that is so important to students’ learning and progression such as seminars and tutorials, laboratory practical’s, and work experience. Those will be complemented by the wider student sporting and social experiences, in line with the lifting of restrictions across society. Students may see some differences at the start of this academic year, for instance we’re not envisaging the immediate resumption of large lectures, and of course students have always had different university experiences based on what and where they are studying.”
