The Experience of Mothers as University Students and Pre-Service Teachers during COVID-19: Recommendations for Ongoing Support

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Australia in 2020, lockdown restrictions meant that the lives of tertiary students and mothers underwent substantial adjustment. Universities quickly adapted to full online learning with implications for accessibility and efficacy of online technologies, and home environments suitable for learning. Mothers who were studying at university had to readjust their study, work, care and home responsibilities to home-school their children around others in the home, further complicating the boundaries of work/family life. This study aimed to understand how COVID-19 affected mothers as pre-service teaching students within a university education faculty, exploring mothers' perceptions of university supports and their effectiveness. Eight mothers participated in the study using narrative inquiry and feminist methodology. The data shows effects of the pandemic were both negative (heightened stress, financial strain, less sleep) and positive (stronger family bonds, partners more involved in childcare). Recommendations for improved supports do not only apply within a pandemic context, and include opportunities for affordable childcare, more flexible study options and more financial incentives. Overall, universities need to acknowledge mothers as an important demographic who have caring responsibilities, and work to ensure a more equitable experience for this marginalised group of students.