Students as active partners in planning student experience

It is widely accepted that the overall higher education student experience plays a critical role in student success. Student experience has been defined as 'all experiences of facets of the university experienced by an individual student'. The University of Tasmania has developed the Student Experience Plan (2013-2015), a new strategic plan, which is built on a shared partnership between the University and its students. The students' Tasmania University Union (TUU) has an important role in creating opportunities for students to engage in a range of activities at the university. This paper outlines the methodological approach used to develop the Plan which includes a review of research literature, university strategic policies, consultation and feedback from staff, stakeholders and students.