Browsing by Author "Unger, Jemima"

To my knowledge, this is the first study describing student communication, learning, and wellbeing at the university-level during Covid-19 in Finland. This research is meant to correspond to the need for more research regarding the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on youth (aged 29 and younger according to the Finnish legislation). The goal of the research is to provide solutions to the complex challenges which have arisen during the pandemic and a rapid transition to a fully online learning and teaching format in Finland. The thesis brings to light student experiences regarding online learning, communication and wellbeing, during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research is guided by two research questions: 1. How do students at the University of Helsinki describe their experiences of distance communication and learning during the Covid-19 pandemic? And second: 2. How has the Covid-19 pandemic influenced the wellbeing of students at the university? Theoretically, the approach of this thesis builds on social constructionism. Methodologically, reflexive thematic analysis is used, to examine the research material. The empirical data consists of qualitative semi-structured interviews with five university students at the University of Helsinki. The analysis showed significant challenges with communication, learning and wellbeing in the student population, during the Covid-19 pandemic. Overall, communication had deteriorated during the initial phases of the Covid-19 pandemic; however, improved over time. The main recommendation of the research is coordinated action in form of a unified manual regarding online teaching and behavior on Zoom, by universities or similar institutions in Finland, which face a similar challenge as the University of Helsinki. Lecturers are encouraged to take a personal interest in student engagement online, and strongly recommend using cameras, speaking more freely, and participating actively in small groups, for better student success, communication and wellbeing. In addition, students are encouraged to stay social and form support groups on for example Whatsapp or other similar application. In the future, students may be able to use distance learning opportunities for networking and potentially, meeting future colleagues online. Lastly, student wellbeing is in focus, and should be researched further, to implement strategies for the preservation of student wellbeing, wellbeing at university and for sustainable networks in the academic environment.