Loss of Field Courses For Undergraduates

The Covid19 pandemic has had very tough consequences for many folk in many areas. One sad outcome that has, however, received little comment, has been the loss of field courses for undergraduates, currently completing degrees in Archeology, Biological Sciences, Geography, Geology etc. For some, not very-inspired students, field courses have been simply a 'jolly'. For the majority, however, field courses (especially ones where the students travel together and share accommodation) have proved to be a seminal feature of their degree. Students learn how to effectively operate in teams (a skill they are likely to need in many areas of subsequent employment). They get to do 'hands-on' work relating to their degree specialisms. Students socialise with eachother and the staff leading the courses. They are placed in positions, where they have to look after eachother. Such students may also get to interact with other cultures and groups. Many students, on field courses, have formed friendships that have persisted long after they have left university. I appreciate that these losses are nothing like the consequences of getting seriously ill with the Covid virus, but they have changed the quality of their degree scheme. It's something that can never be restored to the portfolios of students graduating over the next few years.