Health Sciences foundation degrees in Wales

As a first year online student, the overall impression so far has not been good. Previously, I studied at the Open University and when comparing the two, I wish I had continued my study there. While distance learning is beneficial for myself and current circumstances, I had high hopes that teaching and learning would remain at a high level, especially while studying at a Masters level. Sadly, this has not been the case. My first module was filled with contradicting information regarding how assessments would be carried out, deadlines, and word counts with guidance often saying one thing and tutors saying another. The second module which I am currently studying is based on data. I have limited knowledge on this subject and would have hoped for more in-depth teaching rather than one or two 10 minute micro-lectures each week, which mostly sum up a chapter from a book that we are required to read. Alongside this, guidance stated that answer keys would be released for quizzes undertaken as part of the assessment. This has not been the case, therefore, students have had zero feedback or opportunity to reflect on their learning. There is no opportunity for online student to feel like they 'belong' to the university with all Student Union clubs/events taking place on campus. The only interactions I've had with other students studying online has been via discussion forums and a group WhatsApp set up by the students. In future, it would be beneficial if module guidance could be reviewed more often, therefore limiting the contradicting information that confuses students. It would also be extremely helpful to have 'live' lectures where students can actively participate and ask questions, rather than pre-recorded micro-lectures that last for 10 minutes. Alongside this, online opportunities could be provided to distance learning students such as online book clubs, monthly bingo games, online chat rooms, fun quiz nights, wellbeing check-in groups, etc.

Great campus with great staff, location lets it down being in Newport. Cafe is quite pricey but that's to be expected. Campus is clean and fairly quiet with everything contained in one building. Online system is a bit frustrating, I feel it could be efficiently contained within an app, as is with other universities. No accessible Wifi on campus as far as I am aware.

I can't recommend the BA Photography at Carmarthen School of Art, Coleg Sir Gâr, highly enough. The teaching, which combines practical knowhow with art history, philosophy and cultural context, is first class. The tutors are knowledgable, inspiring, thoughtful and caring and provide a wonderfully encouraging and safe space for students to flourish into confident, accomplished photographers. The enterprise element of the course provides a good opportunity to develop the commercial side of the student's practice, setting them up to hit the ground running when they leave. Support continues after graduation with a strong alumni and Graduate Resident programme. I studied at Carmarthen School of Art as a mature student and graduated with First Class Honours. I can honestly say it was one of the best things I've done in my life. I feel so lucky to have been able to attend such a fantastic degree programme on my doorstep in West Wales!