Graduate qualities in course design, teaching and assessment - academic and student perceptions

Abstract

There is a push worldwide in universities to increase employability of students through the development of graduate qualities. This paper explores the extent to which course coordinators within a university coursework business Masters degree incorporate graduate qualities in the design, teaching and assessment of their courses. Student perceptions of their own graduate quality learning and assessment are also investigated. The paper argues that while staff accept the theoretical concept of graduate qualities, in practical terms they are influenced more by discipline demands and personal preferences. A more coordinated and explicit articulation of graduate qualities within courses and across programs is needed so that improved outcomes are achieved and evidenced.