NSS results show student feedback concerns amidst rising costs

National Student Survey (NSS) results published yesterday show that 37% of students report that their course feedback is not acted on, despite overall positive responses to questions relating to teaching, learning resources and communication of mental wellbeing services.

This year’s survey saw almost 346,000 final year students respond, with findings also indicating that 25% of students consider the organisation and management of their course to not be at a level where they are wholly satisfied. 

Lisa Randall, partner and head of higher education at RSM UK, comments: 'Yesterday’s NSS results highlight the need for enhanced feedback mechanisms in UK universities, with students expressing their concerns that their feedback is not being actioned. Although the results were mainly a positive reflection of the student experience, universities need to continue to address ongoing issues relating to student voice, with findings showing that more than a third of students said that their course feedback is not acted on. 

'Student voice remains an important aspect of ensuring the long-term growth and success of educational institutions and their students. As the sector has witnessed, it helps to increase student engagement, encourages collaboration, improves culture and enhances the learning experience.'

She added: 'UK universities are in a globally competitive market, with the impact of static tuition fees versus inflation, rising costs and falling international student numbers adding further pressure amidst ongoing redundancies and transformation plans. It is therefore essential that institutions continue to listen to feedback from students, to promote student retention and recruitment, while also contributing to financial stability, quality assurance and opportunities for funding.'