A framework for integrating client partners in communication courses

There is a growing emphasis on providing experiential learning experiences in public relations and strategic communication courses. This paper provides a framework for instructors to implement a semester-long client partner project in the classroom. The steps outlined provide instructors with a series of steps, including (1) identifying client partners, (2) developing a project brief, (3) providing an assignment overview and group formation, (4) hosting a client partner discovery meeting, (5) scaffolding assignments and student meetings, (6) presenting final projects to the client partner, and (7) evaluations and debriefing.