Graduate attributes as a focus for institution-wide curriculum renewal: innovations and challenges

Abstract

Curtin University's Curriculum 2010 (C2010) initiative aimed at ensuring degree programs were excellent and sustainable. Before C2010, graduate attributes were not universally emphasised and indicators showed room for improvement in generic skills. C2010 focused on embedding graduate attributes through three strategies. The first was embedding graduate attributes in degree programs and mapping for constructive alignment of outcomes and assessments. The second strategy was related: programs were reviewed drawing on evidence including perspectives of graduates, employers and program teams on the relative importance of graduate attributes and the extent to which they were generally demonstrated or developed. The third strategy was a university-wide eportfolio system enabling students' self- and peer-assessment of graduate attributes. Since completion of C2010, proxy indicators show improvement. However, this paper highlights the challenges associated with graduate attributes and renewal. These include: academic staff engagement, the time needed for innovations to come to fruition and evidencing achievement of graduate attributes.

Keywords:

• curriculum mapping
• eportfolios
• graduate and employer surveys
• graduate attributes
• quality assurance

Acknowledgements

The author wishes to acknowledge the academic staff of Curtin University for their collaboration and energy in engaging with this curriculum renewal initiative, particularly Sue Jones, Sonia Ferns, Beatrice Tucker and colleagues from the Office of Assessment, Teaching and Learning.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Beverley Oliver

Current address: Deakin Learning Futures, Deakin University, Burwood, Melbourne, Australia.