Real world skills in the time of COVID and beyond

Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft solutions form an important part of the University’s highly ranked Computer Science programme. Dr Derek Foster, Computer Science Programme Leader, explains, “We really view cloud computing as one of the pillars of skills that students need… So we offer students Azure Fundamentals as part of their academic degree programme because it demonstrates competencies and skillsets in a very valuable industry context.”

As well as being valuable to industry, this approach is highly valued by students. They choose to learn Azure Fundamentals at Lincoln because of the hands-on learning opportunities it provides and the longer-term benefits in employability.

Continuing learning through COVID-19

Usually, Computer Science learning takes place at the University’s impressive new Isaac Newton Building at its picturesque waterfront Brayford Pool Campus. But in March 2020, that changed suddenly. Abigail Smith, a current Computer Science student, says, “When at first COVID was announced we were very unsure what this meant.”

Like many higher education institutions, the University of Lincoln had to respond quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting its teaching and learning approach to ensure that students and staff could continue to enjoy a safe and positive learning experience.

Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Liz Mossop says, “We moved very quickly to move all our teaching and learning online and, in fact, we moved within 24 hours.”

Digital delivery into the future

Microsoft Teams helped to support teachers and students continue teaching and learning successfully and to adapt quickly. Dr Foster recalls, “Microsoft Teams had a really important role to play in terms of direct support for students for one-to-one support, smaller group meetings, as well as larger group meetings… Students naturally picked it up very, very quickly.”

The close integration of Microsoft Teams with other essential learning tools, such as Microsoft Word, as well as the security and integrity of the Microsoft 365 platform are highly valued by staff and students alike.  

Given this success, the University plans to integrate Microsoft Teams into its ongoing operations.  Dr Foster says, “Remote learning is going to remain as an integral part – or one of the toolsets that we’ll use – to enhance the student experience.”