When we look for information online, we expect it to be correct and helpful. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case with Loyola’s websites. It’s our GPS for school and academic resources, but it’s often led us astray.
We need this to change.
How can students register for classes correctly when most of the Loyola website pages have inaccurate information?
Loyola academic websites don’t explicitly list courses or have outdated course information for many interdisciplinary minor programs, or otherwise.
Imagine trying to plan your academic journey only to find out that the courses you set your sights on don’t even exist or aren’t being offered as advertised. This wastes students’ time and effort and ruins our trust in the system designed to guide us.
And this lack of reliable information extends beyond academics.
The climate action plan found on Loyola’s website was created over a decade ago by a professor who is no longer employed at Loyola with information that is not applicable to our campus’ current state.
The outdated and inaccurate information doesn’t end there.
The faculty directory, a fundamental tool for students to connect with their educators, lists many professors who are not here anymore and lacks many newer faculty and staff members.
This issue is compounded by the frustration of encountering dead-end pages and questioning the accuracy of every piece of information presented on the website.
Loyola currently only has one programmer responsible for updating the university website. Maintaining the website’s accuracy shouldn’t rest solely on the shoulders of one programmer.
Collaboration is key to ensure the reliability and functionality of this vital resource. Advisors have to be hypervigilant in flagging inaccuracies and advocating for their students. After all, incorrect information affects students’ academic journeys.
As a student newspaper, we recognize the importance of accuracy in our reporting, yet we sometimes find ourselves relying on a flawed system for information.
How can we be expected to deliver accurate news when the source we’re meant to rely on is full of inaccuracies?
This issue extends beyond our campus walls to incoming students who rely heavily on the information provided by Loyola’s website to make informed decisions about their education. We must uphold our commitment to transparency and accuracy to ensure these students have access to the most reliable information possible.
The lack of updated information on Loyola’s website reflects poorly on the institution and sends a false message to current students, incoming students, and parents.
The current state of the Loyola website is deplorable.
We need to address these issues and uphold the integrity of our academic institution. We demand accountability and collaboration to ensure that these resources provide reliable information for all who seek knowledge within our community.
