Learner Empowerment and Academic Resource Network

Understanding student technology needs: Initial findings from the student technological needs survey

Using Learning Technologies

Overview

In March 2024, UVic launched a Student Learning Technological Needs Survey, asking students about their technology use and needs. A collaboration between Learning and Teaching Support and Innovation (LTSI), University Systems, and University Libraries, the survey explored how students access tools, what they rely on most, and how these insights can shape UVic’s digital learning strategy. The goal was to improve the student experience with technology and boost digital skills.

  • The survey received participation from 2734 students (2588 undergraduate and 146 graduate students).
  • Responses were anonymous and confidential.
  • The estimated completion rate was 68%.
  • The survey consisted of quantitative components, with certain questions including a ‘other (please specify)’ field for comments. 

Discover the full findings and how your feedback is shaping the future of digital learning at UVic.

Topics and key insights

Demographic information

95% of respondents were undergraduate students. The Faculty of Social Sciences had the highest response rate (22%), followed by Science (15%). In terms of age groups, individuals aged 22 to 25 comprised the largest proportion, accounting for 52%.

The largest group represented were students from Social Sciences (22%), followed by Science (15%)

Assistive technologies used to complete academic work

Visual & text: Screen readers, closed captions, digital magnifiers, screen color filters; Speed adjustment for video playback

Writing & communication: Voice-to-text software (e.g., Dragon Naturally Speaking), voice recorders; Text-to-speech software, word prediction, grammar/spell check tools (e.g., Grammarly)

Note taking: Digital note-taking, lecture recordings, transcription services; AI assistants, text mining tools, pen input tablets

Environmental & sensory: Noise-canceling headphones, quiet exam spaces; Adjustments for ADHD (distraction-reduced environments)

Device used to complete academic work

The Apple MacBook laptop is the most used device for completing academic work, accounting for 34% of student usage. Most students (98%) have access to their primary device to complete their work. The Apple iPhone (23%) is a popular secondary device among students.

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Main issues encountered using technology to complete academic work

The majority of student devices (91%) adequately meet their needs for completing academic work. Some students have encountered situations such as; loss of internet connectivity (38%), not equipped to perform a task needed for a course (25%), could not run the required software (22%), device not working (20%), and app/tool compatibility issues with assistive technology (19%).

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Online tools needed for coursework

Students prioritize Brightspace, Microsoft Office applications (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and OneDrive), and Zoom for their academic work. Additionally, just under 30%. of students reported benefits to using lecture capture tools like Echo 360. 51% of students shared that they discovered new technologies through word of mouth with peers or friends. 

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Online class materials

Students primarily engage in academic work through in-person meetings. However, lecture materials, including presentation slides (PPT), notes, videos, and audio, are considered crucial by students, with just under 66% emphasizing the importance of online access for their learning.

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What tools would be important for learning?

23%  GenAI or large language models

26%  Social media

25%  Online graphic design tools

48%  Google Drive

30%  Found lecture capture or Echo360 recording useful 

Other recommendations and resources

The Apple iPhone is a widely used secondary device among students, with just under 24% utilizing it for academic purposes. To enhance accessibility, Brightspace and other relevant UVic academic websites should be optimized for iPhone compatibility.

Learn about our Brightspace pulse app

Some students shared experiences where their primary devices lost internet connection during class sessions, quizzes, or exams.

Access the internet and connectivity status

When students encounter technology-related issues, they often seek informal assistance when encountering technology-related issues, such as asking peers, friends, or conducting online searches.

Learn about the Computer Help Desk services and hours

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