Approaches to the Implementation of Generic Graduate Attributes in Australian ICT Undergraduate Education

Abstract

Over the past few years Australian universities have sought to establish generic graduate attributes statements to meet the demands of external stakeholders. Within the area of information and communication technology (ICT), for example, professional organizations and employers want new ICT graduates to be able to talk with clients, create persuasive arguments and present work confidently. To meet such requirements, Australian ICT educators have explored a variety of methods to implement graduate attributes. The selection and content of delivery models, however, vary according to university policies and departmental cultures. In this paper we critically examine the dedicated, infused, and embedded approaches to the delivery of generic graduate attributes. To do this, we first trace the development of graduate attributes. Secondly, we present three diverse approaches by two ICT departments within the same university and discuss factors that lead to sustainable generic graduate attribute programmes. We conclude our paper with issues to consider when adopting implementation models and map out suggestions for further research.

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to the students, staff, and employers who have contributed their insights over the years, as well as for the conversations with our students and colleagues. We are also most appreciative of the anonymous reviewers' and editors' constructive feedback, insights, and suggestions on our paper.