Student voice plays a vital role in education. John Hattie’s research highlights that student engagement and agency significantly influence achievement outcomes, with feedback loops between teachers and students ranking among the top ten factors affecting learning (Hattie, 2009). When students feel heard, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning, engage deeply with content, and perform better.

Our technology department embraced continuous improvement by enhancing student voice. We began by asking critical questions: Why do we teach what we teach? Who decides, and who faces the consequences? Regular surveys at the beginning and end of each term revealed insights into what students valued, tolerated, and desired in their learning. This data has become integral to refining our curriculum and teaching practices.

We also established the “Technology Student Voice Team,” a permanent leadership initiative involving senior students. Their role extends beyond consultation to active decision-making on room design, projects, and assessment methods. They survey peers, balance stakeholder needs, and present findings to the College executive and board. Their contributions have sparked a cultural shift, fostering increased pride, ownership, and engagement across the department.
Evidence of success includes improved academic outcomes and greater student involvement in co-curricular initiatives. Students now actively contribute to department projects even without immediate personal benefit, reflecting a commitment to a shared vision.

Our next steps include expanding this initiative to junior students to capture diverse perspectives and formalising partnerships with external stakeholders for real-world projects. We also plan to integrate advanced digital tools for enhanced data collection and analysis, enabling more targeted improvements.

Student voice remains central to our department’s ongoing development, ensuring each cohort becomes pioneers in shaping their education. Through continuous reflection and innovation, we sustain and enhance the transformative power of student engagement in technology education.