The Importance of Student Voice: Empowering Education Through Listening

This webinar, "Every student has a voice, but do we hear them?", is a collaboration between the MacKillop Institute and the Quaglia Institute for School Voice and Aspirations. Read on for a sumamry of the key themes covered, including what student voice actually means, why it matters in education, the distinction between voice and agency, and how genuine student voice is less a program or activity and more a "way of being" embedded in school culture. Or watch the webinar recording.

Author/Source: The Mackillop Institute, Dr Russ Quaglia, Sue Bryen, Justin Roberts and Chris Higgins. Webinar summary by PESA.

Last updated: 09/09/2024

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The Importance of Student Voice: Empowering Education Through Listening

This webinar examines how schools can cultivate authentic student voice by building cultures and systems that ensure every student is heard, particularly those typically overlooked. The discussion is led by Dr Russ Quaglia, a leading expert on student voice, and Sue Bryen from the Quaglia Institute, alongside Justin Roberts, National Program Director of ReLATE ( Reframing Teaching and Learning Environments) and 2024 Most Influential Educator Award winner and Chris Higgins, National Program Director, Development and Innovation at the MacKillop Institute.

Webinar Summary

In today's educational landscape, the emphasis on student voice has become increasingly prominent, offering a fresh perspective on how schools can foster a sense of belonging, engagement, and purpose among young people. Here’s a closer look at the importance of student voice, how to define it, and how it shapes a more inclusive and productive learning environment.

Why is Student Voice Important?

Student voice is a crucial element of the broader conversation within schools. When students feel they have a voice, they are more engaged and connected to their learning environment. Research of 103,125 students by the Quaglia Institute reveals that students who perceive they have a voice are:
• 32% more likely to have a sense of self-worth,
• 38% more likely to report being engaged at school, and
• 43% more likely to feel a sense of purpose.
Furthermore, 78% of students who feel heard also report having the support of their teachers. These statistics highlight the transformative impact of student voice on both personal and academic levels. Importantly, student voice doesn’t diminish the voices of teachers or parents; rather, it invites everyone to the table, ensuring a collaborative approach to school life.

What is Student Voice?

One common misconception is that student voice is something schools "give" to students. However, students already have a voice; it's about creating an environment where teachers actively listen. Defining student voice clearly is essential for fostering shared understanding across the school community.
There are three key elements of student voice:
1. Sharing thoughts and ideas in an environment built on trust and respect.
2. Offering realistic suggestions for the benefit of the entire school community.
3. Taking responsibility for actions (this is often where the concept of agency comes into play).
By embracing these components, students are not just being consulted but are actively collaborating and contributing to their school's culture and decision-making processes. The same principles apply to educators, parents, and the broader community, emphasizing the collective nature of listening and contributing.

The Role of Belonging

A sense of belonging is integral to students' overall wellbeing and academic success. Students need to feel they matter both as individuals and as part of the larger school community. Role models, especially those within the school environment, provide crucial guidance and support. These role models not only inspire students but are also accessible and relatable figures who can help students understand their values, passions, and aspirations.

Moreover, fostering a sense of citizenship is vital, helping students recognise who they are within their community. A strong sense of accomplishment can emerge when students see themselves as active participants in shaping their educational journey.

Reaching Different Types of Students

Ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have a voice is essential. This can be challenging, particularly with students who may not initially engage or those whose perspectives may differ from the mainstream. However, educators must be purposeful in listening to these students, especially those with special needs, and be attentive to non-verbal cues such as body language and engagement levels.

Teaching young people how, when, and where to use their voice is an ongoing process. It requires intentional effort and time – around 30 hours of professional development over three years, according to experts. It’s important to bridge the gap between students who are already engaged and those who may not even realise they have a voice. There is no right or wrong approach; what matters is that students feel heard and supported.

Overcoming Barriers to Student Voice

Interestingly, Australian data suggests that many students are hesitant to use their voice, often due to a fear of being "wrong." As educators, it’s crucial to reassure students that there is no wrong way to express themselves. Sometimes, students may not even realize they are being listened to, so it's helpful to highlight moments when their voice is influencing decisions or changes within the school.

Conclusion: Listening, Learning, Leading Together

Fostering student voice isn't about shifting the balance of power but about creating an inclusive, collaborative culture where everyone feels valued. By teaching students to listen, learn, and lead, schools can cultivate a generation of empowered individuals who are not just passive learners but active contributors to their communities. In doing so, educators will help create environments where students thrive both personally and academically.

Bryen, S., Higgins, C., Roberts, J. & Quaglia, R. 2024. Every student has a voice, but do we hear them? [Webinar]. Mackillop Institute. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnYk3ByclGY [29 October 2024].

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