Students as Partners Toolkit

Challenge

Solution

Budget constraints

• Start small – work with one or two students so costs are low.  Once you’ve demonstrated your success you can expand.
• Consider whether alternatives to financial remuneration for student partners may be appropriate.

Doubts from managers or colleagues about using the Students as Partners approach

• Clearly articulate the reasons for choosing this approach and the benefits this will bring for this project.  
• Find examples of similar projects which have succeeded using a Students as Partners approach.

Uncertainty as to what can realistically be expected of student partners

• Plan recruitment and onboarding of student partners carefully – be explicit about roles, expectations, and ways of working at the beginning of the project.
• Consult with colleagues who have experience working with student partners.
• Check in with student partners regularly during the project to check that they are comfortable with what is being asked of them.
• Be aware of students’ study commitments and build in flexibility to accommodate their schedules.

Fear of failure if control over the project is ceded to student partners

• Pitch the project as a pilot or test-case for the Students as Partners approach.
• Set aside time throughout the project to check in with student partners, listen to them, and be prepared to adjust focus or outcomes based on their feedback.

• Join or initiate a Students as Partners community of practice so you can share what works.