University students have doubts about fall

Almost one-third of post-secondary students say they have doubts about starting or returning to college or university this fall because of worries about their health and finances — but especially about online learning, according to a new survey to be released Tuesday.

The survey, commissioned by the Canadian Association of University Teachers and the Canadian Federation of Students, found that of the 30 per cent who are debating their plans for this fall, three-quarters “are worried that distance learning will create a poor learning experience,” said David Robinson, executive director of the teachers’ association.

While universities are still in the difficult stage of planning the fall semester as the COVID-19 situation remains unclear — and with warnings of possible surges in cases — professors have been told to prepare for online learning.

The survey found that if tuition fees were reduced, about 85 per cent of students considering deferral would return.

With questions around international student enrolment — which has become a huge money-maker for universities — any drop in domestic enrolment could “exacerbate” the schools’ financial troubles, Robinson said.

The survey, which included Grade 12 students as well as those already in college or university across Canada, also found 75 per cent are worried about their future health and financial situation because of the COVID-19 pandemic; 70 per cent say their summer job plans have been “negatively affected;” and almost 70 per cent say the pandemic has affected their own financial situation or that of their parents.

Ottawa and the province have given youths a six-month break on student loan repayments and interest.