In my recently published article, I analyse further qualitative data from my doctoral research on co-creation of the curriculum to draw out the theme of Third Spaces that has emerged. My work takes on new theoretical perspectives drawing on theories of the Third Space which I engaged with as a result of being inspired by the special issue theme of the International Journal of Students as Partners focusing on this topic. I also draw on literature on the Third Mission of universities which I was first introduced to while participating in the Central European University's summer school last year focusing on the theory and practice of contemporary adult education. The abstract is below as well as links to the open source article.
“More than Just a Student”: How Co-Creation of the Curriculum Fosters Third Spaces in Ways of Working, Identity, and Impact
Abstract:
The Third Space (Bhabha, 2004) represents non-traditional roles, processes, relationships, and spaces in which individuals work and have impact. This article presents qualitative research into 13 different curriculum co-creation initiatives at five Scottish universities and analyses the forms of Third Space that emerge.The findings highlight that curriculum co-creation can foster Third Spaces that include: new ways of working in learning and teaching, student development in a space between traditional student and teacher roles and identities, and impact in civic engagement within and beyond the university. The respect and reciprocity that characterise curriculum co-creation can greatly benefit students’ personal and professional development as individuals. In addition, I suggest that the Third Space of civic engagement can advance the Third Mission of universities (beyond impact in the first two missions of teaching and research) when students and teachers work in partnership to have a positive effect on the wider society.
The full article can be accessed here.
“More than Just a Student”: How Co-Creation of the Curriculum Fosters Third Spaces in Ways of Working, Identity, and Impact
Abstract:
The Third Space (Bhabha, 2004) represents non-traditional roles, processes, relationships, and spaces in which individuals work and have impact. This article presents qualitative research into 13 different curriculum co-creation initiatives at five Scottish universities and analyses the forms of Third Space that emerge.The findings highlight that curriculum co-creation can foster Third Spaces that include: new ways of working in learning and teaching, student development in a space between traditional student and teacher roles and identities, and impact in civic engagement within and beyond the university. The respect and reciprocity that characterise curriculum co-creation can greatly benefit students’ personal and professional development as individuals. In addition, I suggest that the Third Space of civic engagement can advance the Third Mission of universities (beyond impact in the first two missions of teaching and research) when students and teachers work in partnership to have a positive effect on the wider society.
The full article can be accessed here.
