The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published findings of its COVID-19 student survey, focusing on how architecture students have been affected by the pandemic.
Headline findings from the survey, which was completed by 398 architecture students, revealed:
- Students are under significant stress
58% of respondents told us that their mental health had deteriorated because of the COVID-19 crisis and 39% said that their physical health had deteriorated. 45% were feeling isolated and 39% were not keeping in touch with their peer group.
- Job roles have been directly impacted by the pandemic
10% of students had a job offer at a practice but it was withdrawn, 9% have lost a part-time role and 5% no longer wish to become an architect.
- Students are concerned about their future career
48% worry about being able to get a job as an architect when they complete their studies.
- Online teaching and learning is not a replacement for in-person learning
83% stated that online teaching and learning is suitable for only some parts of the curriculum and 81% would be put off applying to a course that’s entirely online. However, 58% feel it is good preparation for the digital future.
- Home working doesn’t suit everyone
25% say that where they live is not adequate for them to work in and 25% say their equipment is not adequate for the work they need to do.
41% don’t feel they have the money they need to get by and the same amount are worried about their family’s finances.
RIBA Director of Education, David Gloster, said: “The education and training of aspiring architects is crucial to the future of architecture in the UK and around the world. However, the findings of our latest COVID-19 survey paint a concerning picture for architecture students - and those who teach them - demonstrating how much the pandemic has impacted those hoping to enter the profession.
“It is particularly worrying to see the impact COVID-19 has had on the mental and physical health of students, and we encourage those struggling to seek help as needed. At this challenging time, students need our support more than ever.
“While it has been encouraging to see recent government plans to make architecture apprenticeships more accessible, we will continue to call for a re-evaluation of the education process, to make architecture more inclusive post-pandemic.”
