University of Melbourne Still Using COVID-Era Recorded Lectures for Key Undergraduate Degrees
A parent expressed disappointment that tutorials were filmed six years ago, preferring recent content and face-to-face instruction.
Students at the University of Melbourne are being taught remotely using online lectures recorded six years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a report. The university acknowledged that some pandemic-era learning material remains in use for undergraduate programs, including the Bachelor of Biomedicine, alongside in-person teaching and live lectures.
The Cost of Outdated Content
The recorded lectures are part of the curriculum for undergraduate biomedical degrees. Domestic tuition for the course was nearly $13,600 in 2024, while international students paid over $56,000. This has sparked criticism from parents and students alike regarding the value of the education provided.
David Gonzalez, president of the National Tertiary Education Union (Melbourne branch), said the use of COVID-era lectures raises questions about student experience and that students "expect current content and engagement for the fees paid."
University’s Response and Financial Picture
Acting Dean Mike McGuckin stated the faculty prioritizes in-person teaching and is building new workshops, but pandemic-era material is being phased out gradually.
The financial backdrop is complex. The University of Melbourne reported assets of approximately $11.5 billion and a net surplus of about $273 million in 2024. However, acting Vice Chancellor Glyn Davis warned of a $122 million operating deficit for 2025, with another forecast for 2026.
Broader Context
- Monash University also uses a mix of recorded and live lectures.
- Victoria University uses no recorded lectures at all.
- Gonzalez linked the university's financial portrayal to ongoing wage negotiations with staff.