The importance of student collaboration in curriculum design
We spoke to Jeevti and Amelia, two students who took part in a design thinking workshop with the School of Mathematics, to discuss improving staff-student partnerships. Hear about their experience in their own words, what they learnt and why they would encourage students and staff to embrace design thinking opportunities.
What happened during the session?
We collaborated with staff to co-create ideas surrounding community, curriculum, and student support. This collaboration meant that we could feedback as students our unique perspectives and experiences to staff, encouraging reflection and innovation. Attending the workshop gave me the opportunity to contribute to positive change and allowed me to express ideas in an environment where I felt valued and heard. — Amelia
What did you take away from the workshop?
Throughout the workshop, areas for improvement were identified and solution frameworks established. I am particularly excited about the introduction of informal drop-in sessions for maths support. This would be an alternative to staff office hours, which can often be intimidating to students. I brought this idea forward at the workshop and have subsequently been involved in developing the concept so that it can be put in place. I also found it interesting to listen to staff perspectives on teaching, and their responses to student feedback. Mutually understanding both teaching and learning experiences is extremely important for building trust and bridging the gap between students and staff within the University. — Amelia
The realisation that our reflections and propositions were actively shaping curriculum improvements was profoundly satisfying. It underscored a critical insight — our engagement in meaningful discussions was not merely an academic exercise but a pivotal influence on our educational landscape. — Jeevti
Did you learn anything from the staff you were collaborating with?
I was surprised to see so many staff members who were passionate about actively participating in change, and who recognised the need for improvement within the School. — Amelia
Sitting at the same tables as my lecturers, exploring the same ideas and knowing why something would or would not work has deepened my understanding, and these skills will be with me for life.
Learning and sharing the same table as experienced industry professionals really influenced my outlook towards things, making it a much more holistic approach. Suddenly, the changes we hoped for seemed within reach. — Jeevti
Why did you choose to take part?
At first, I saw it simply as a chance to earn some extra money and share my thoughts. But what started as a small step quickly turned into a meaningful journey for me. The idea of changing the Maths courses taught at our school may seem like a big, distant goal, especially since I might graduate before seeing all the changes. Yet, I realised how important it is to work towards making things better, and I want to share why it should matter to you too. — Jeevti
Why do you think it’s important for students to be involved in design thinking activities?
After attending the workshop, I feel passionate about increasing student involvement in curriculum design and other decision-making processes within the University. I encourage all students and staff to embrace opportunities for collaboration and partnership: take part in design thinking activities, workshops, and initiatives aimed at improving the educational experience for all. — Amelia
The curriculum is currently undergoing significant changes. Being a part of this transformation has been immensely rewarding for me.
The ideas and creative solutions we discussed in these workshops made me realize the impact we could have on future students’ learning experiences.
Knowing that I’ve played a part in shaping how maths will be taught and learned in the future fills me with joy. You might be a student like me, wondering how your voice can make a difference. But believe me, the opinions you share can deepen your connection to your school. It might feel a bit strange at first, sitting at the same table with our teachers, engaging in serious conversations, but the creative ideas that come out of these discussions, within the limits we have, are truly precious. — Jeevti
If you’re interested in taking part in Design Thinking activities as a student, or if you’re a staff member who is interested in Design Thinking, please contact learningdesign@leeds.ac.uk.
