The Student-led Research Unit (SRU) fosters an investigative learning environment at The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS). As a project within the Centre of Expertise Global and Inclusive Learning, we are developing new approaches to conducting research. Our research is led by students and communities. We explore how shared experiences and concerns of students can be utilized. In doing so, we provide practical solutions and also support leadership and community-building.
What does SRU do?
With a focus on lived experiences of students within THUAS, our student researchers explore issues that they initiated themselves (student-led). All of our projects draw on the collection and analysis of lived experiences of students. Based on these experiences and comparative overviews of best practices, the students are able to make policy recommendations to transform policies and procedures – all toward a more participatory, just and inclusive university community.
Research for Students, by Students
The student researchers within this unit contribute to research at THUAS in three ways. First, by participating in ongoing research projects across various research groups within the Centre of Expertise Global and Inclusive Learning. These projects offer students the opportunity to have a greater impact by getting involved and feeling more engaged.
Students also conduct research in collaboration with different units within The Hague University of Applied Sciences (such as research groups, the Inclusion Office, and the Well-being Office). These units seek to gain insights into various aspects of student experiences.
Additionally, our student researchers can propose their own topics for investigation, such as the sense of belonging within the university or the impact of shared responsibilities between the university and students on mental health.
Examples of (ongoing) student-led projects:
- To support media literacy and inclusive participation at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, one of our student researchers is examining experiences related to media use, misinformation, and disinformation.
- Another student researcher is exploring ways to improve access to higher education for migrant students while their asylum applications are pending. He has developed innovative recommendations for this purpose.
- In a different project, student experiences of discrimination during internships are being investigated, with the aim of creating a system to prevent and address these issues.
- In the Partner Up! project, students, lecturers, and course directors work together (co-creation) to develop parts of the curriculum and contribute to an inclusive culture.
- A project initiated by The Hague University’s Well-being Office involved creating policy proposals to address unwanted behavior. They aimed to design a reporting system that is more participatory and inclusive. The student researchers examined experiences of unwanted behavior within the university and explored why so few incidents are reported.
Become a student researcher
Are you a student interested in exploring topics such as inclusion, participation, diversity, equality, and citizenship? Then the position of student researcher might be for you. SRU is open to students from all programs within The Hague University of Applied Sciences.
If you are interested in any other specific topic or issue, you are also welcome to join the platform. SRU invites students to contribute to discussions that impact the entire community of THUAS.
Want to know more about becoming a student researcher? Then contact Dr Tamara Takács via the button below. She will be happy to tell you more about the opportunities at SRU.
Student researcher is a paid (student) job for which you are accepted on the basis of selection and recruitment.
Looking for collaboration partners
Our student researchers are eager to gain valuable experience, learn new skills, and expand their professional network. That’s why SRU is keen to collaborate with (social) organizations that align with the values of inclusion, participation, diversity, and equality. Partners can count on committed students with fresh ideas and perspectives who are ready to take a hands-on approach to their mission.
Contact us!
The coordinator of SRU is Dr Tamara Takács, who is also strategic advisor at the Centre of Expertise Global and Inclusive Learning. Want to join or cooperate?
