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Graduate Attributes Procedures

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Section 1 - Overview

(1) These procedures provide details of the University's compliance with the statutory requirements of the Higher Education Provider Standards, as regulated by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), and the associated Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for graduate attributes.

(2) The AQF defines graduate attributes/capabilities as generic learning outcomes which are incorporated (embedded) into qualifications in the development process. These generic learning outcomes are defined as the transferrable, non-discipline specific skills a graduate may achieve through learning that have application in study, work and life contexts. The four broad categories of generic learning outcomes recognised in the AQF (2013, p.11) are:

  1. fundamental skills, such as literacy and numeracy appropriate to the level and qualification type
  2. people skills, such as working with others and communication skills
  3. thinking skills, such as learning to learn, decision making and problem solving
  4. personal skills, such as self-direction and acting with integrity.

(3) UNE graduate attributes are the generic characteristics and personal qualities that define UNE graduates, together with the core knowledge, skills and capabilities specific to a student's course of study. UNE graduate attributes are:

  1. embedded in course learning outcomes
  2. either generic or course nuanced qualities and/or capabilities.

(4) Students are provided with appropriate learning, teaching and assessment experiences to enable them to develop the UNE Graduate Attributes across the period of their study.

(5) UNE graduate attributes are:

Attributes Descriptor
Knowledge of a discipline Graduates will have knowledge of their discipline including a global perspective
Communication skills Graduates will convey ideas and information effectively to a range of audiences
Problem solving Graduates will apply logical, critical and creative thinking to solve a range of problems
Information literacy Graduates will recognise when information is needed, and identify, evaluate, and effectively use information as required
Ethical conduct and social responsibility Graduates will be able to recognise, reflect on and respond appropriately to social, cultural and ethical issues
Lifelong learning Graduates will be prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of personal and professional development
Independence and collaboration Graduates will work independently and collaboratively to achieve individual and common goals

Quality Assurance

(6) Teaching, learning and assessment of UNE's graduate attributes are assured through the UNE academic quality management systems including course approval and review processes (outlined in the Course and Unit Design and Approval Policy), and the monitoring of student learning experiences through student evaluations.

(7) Course mapping is one means to ensure that graduate attributes are given an appropriate focus which may be discipline-nuanced, are aligned with course content and are achieved.

(8) Course Coordinators are responsible for course design, mapping and monitoring delivery to ensure student achievement of graduate attributes and course learning outcomes, including how English language proficiency is achieved over the life of the student's enrolment in the course.

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Section 2 - Procedures

(9) UNE graduate attributes are identified within the AQF learning outcome dimensions at every qualification level and are mapped to course learning outcomes.

(10) When developing a new Course or reviewing an existing Course, Course Coordinators will:

  1. ensure graduate attributes are embedded in course learning outcomes;
  2. undertake course mapping that demonstrates alignment between course and unit learning outcomes, and AQF descriptors;
  3. where course mapping identifies gaps, Course Coordinators will consult with Schools and disciplines offering units in the course in accordance with the Course and Unit Design and Approval Policy; and
  4. undertake ongoing monitoring and responsibility as outlined in the Academic Quality Assurance Policy.