With a focus on improving student engagement and developing Skills Centre provision, this case study underscores the importance of student voice in shaping educational resources, developing student skills and enhancing the learning experience.

Case Study

Co-creation, as defined by Lubicz-Nawrocka (2020), involves “…staff and students working together in an ongoing, reciprocal, creative and mutually beneficial process” The Skills Co-Creator scheme, launched in 2020-21, embodies this concept and since its inception has developed students’ skills, enhanced the support offered by the Skills Centre and supported partnerships across the university.

The co-creators work with colleagues across the Skills Centre and play a key role in developing and providing feedback on resources, improving marketing and communications, working in creative partnerships with colleagues across the university, and researching student needs to develop student-led provision. It empowers students to contribute to their learning by providing a forum for them to voice their opinions and needs and be a part of practical solutions.

The co-creators, receive relevant training and development opportunities and have ample opportunities to work in areas that align with their interests, experiences, skills, and development needs. It has allowed co-creators to develop their skills, improve their awareness and networking, and facilitated their teaching and learning experiences.

“Co-creation enhanced my project management and collaboration skills, introduced me to new tools and resources, and fostered my peer learning. The role enabled me to develop my tutoring abilities, create effective learning resources and feel more confident talking to other students about how the Skills Centre can help them.” Lola Osinoiki, SCC 2024

In response to feedback co-creators are now able complete a reflective eportfolio on Mahara, to increase employability prospects and provide opportunities to develop and reflect on professional skills. Future work is focused on improving the evaluation of the schemes impact to inform developments and expand the scheme.