Selecting Student Representatives by Sortition

ABSTRACT Student Representatives (Reps) are a key component of the student voice. A variety of models are used for the selection of Reps, but conventionally it is a voluntary process with or without an election element. Here we describe our experiences of using an alternative model of Rep recruitment in a UK‐China transnational education context. We used sortition: the random selection of Reps from the entire student population. When asked about sortition in comparison with the conventional selection process, students communicated concerns about the motivation and competency of Reps selected by sortition, and some were critical of the structure and legitimacy of the process. However, some recognised that sortition was fairer and more inclusive than a conventional election‐based process. Our experiences show that sortition can be a viable method of Rep selection, but students should be given opportunities to understand and discuss the sortition process and the intention behind its use. In a cultural context where the focus can often be on high‐status students, we contend that sortition—in this and other educational contexts—has a potential role in enhancing all students' agency, ultimately promoting a more inclusive academic environment.