Shared responsibility
Societal trends, such as increased individualization and heightened performance pressure, have shifted education towards a consumer-oriented view, while traditionally, education has been a collaborative effort between teachers and students. Students as Partners (SaP) is a global movement that dreams of making education a shared responsibility again, where both teachers and students collectively own the learning process and curriculum. Through SaP, VU Amsterdam can fully utilize its potential in involving students in education and enjoy the many benefits, including:
- Students feel more connected to their education
- Educational methods are innovated
- Confidence and self-reflection among teachers and students are increased
- The involved learn from each other's perspectives
- Tasks can be allocated according to individual strengths
- A new and stronger perspective on education is developed
Involving students
Students can contribute to education with varying levels of involvement, ranging from simply getting informed to having them develop policies on diversity (see the framework below). Whether it's a student lunch, a student-teacher (Students as Teachers), or a student team; all are possible. If it involves a collaboration between student and teacher based on equality and openness, it constitutes a SaP initiative.
Explore various stories and examples in the "Get inspired!" section at the bottom of the page.
Challenges
As with any innovation, involving students also presents challenges, such as recruiting students, allocating time, and overcoming resistance. SaP addresses these challenges by transforming these limiting assumptions into opportunities. By sharing experiences, articulating a vision, and providing training, we overcome obstacles, enhance the quality of education, and contribute to the development of students, teachers, and the VU Amsterdam.
Don't just become something, become someone
Join the movement that connects and expands the visions of both teachers and students. The movement that enhances the quality of education. The movement that transforms students from passive consumers into active collaborators.
Through this, VU Amsterdam leaves a greater impact on its teachers, students, and society. Through this, the world becomes a slightly better place. Through this, both students and teachers become not just something, but someone.
Has this sparked your curiosity? Be sure to check out our introduction video, framework, and blogs below.
If an opportunity presents itself,
SaP presents itself as opportunity taker.
Proudly taking the opportunity,
The VU takes a proud step forward
