University Generic Graduate Attributes (Science)
Faculty of Science
The attribute set has been adopted as main source of course goal descriptions for Science faculty units of study. It comprises 14 Science-related competency descriptions organised under the headings of the five University of Sydney attributes.
A) Research and Inquiry
Graduates of the University will be able to create new knowledge and understanding through the process of research and inquiry
A1) Scientific problem-solving
Apply scientific knowledge and critical thinking to identify, define and analyse problems, create solutions, evaluate opinions, innovate and improve current practices.
A2) Science literacy
Gather, evaluate and deploy information relevant to a scientific problem.
A2a) Science literacy (mathematical)
A3) Scientific investigation
Design and conduct investigations, or the equivalent, and analyse and interpret the resulting data.
A4) Critical thinking
Critically examine the truth and validity in scientific argument and discourse, and evaluate the relative importance of ideas.
A5) Knowledge dissemination
Disseminate new knowledge and engage in debate around scientific issues.
A6) Valuing new learning
Value the importance of continual growth in knowledge and skills, and recognise the rapid, and sometimes major, changes in scientific knowledge and technology.
B) Information Literacy
Graduates of the University will be able to use information effectively in a range of contexts
B1) Information seeking
Use a range of searching tools (such as catalogues and databases) effectively and efficiently to find information.
B2) Use of science information sources
Access a range of information sources in the science disciplines, for example books, reports, research articles, patents and company standards.
B3) Information evaluation
Critically evaluate the reliability and relevance of information in a scientific context.
B4) Responsible use of information
Consider the economic, legal, social, ethical and cultural issues in the gathering and use of information.
B5) IT skills
Use information technology to gather, process, and disseminate scientific information.
C) Communication
Graduates of the University will use and value communication as a tool for negotiating and creating new understanding, interacting with others, and furthering their own
C1) Explaining & presenting
Explain and present ideas to different groups of people in plain-English.
C2) Writing and speaking
Write and speak effectively in a range of contexts and for a variety of different audiences and purposes.
C3) Symbolic and non-verbal communication
Use symbolic and non-verbal communication, such as pictures, icons and symbols as well as body language and facial expressions, effectively.
C4) Data interpretation
Present and interpret data or other scientific information using graphs, tables, figures and symbols.
C5) Teamwork
Work as a member of a team, and take individual responsibility within the group for developing and achieving group goals.
C6) Leadership
Take a leadership role in successfully influencing the activities of a group towards a common goal.
C7) Collaborative approach
Actively seek, identify, and collaborate with others in a professional and social context.
D) Ethical, Social and Professional Understanding
Graduates of the University will hold personal values and beliefs consistent with their role as responsible members of local, national, international and professional communities
D1) Ethical conduct
Demonstrate an understanding of the significance and scope of ethical principles, both as a professional scientist and in the broader social context, and a commitment to apply these principles when making decisions.
D2) Soclal and environmental understanding
Appreciate the importance of sustainability and the impact of science within the broader economic, environmental and socio-cultural context.
D3) Interpersonal conduct
Demonstrate empathy with, and sensitivity towards, another`s situation, feelings and motivation.
E) Personal and Intellectual Autonomy
Graduates of the University will be able to work independently and sustainably, in a way that is informed by openness, curiosity and a desire to meet new challenges
E1) Life-long learning
Evaluate personal performance and development, recognise gaps in knowledge and acquire new knowledge independently.
E2) Adaptability
Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to new situations and dealing with uncertainty.
E3) Reflective practice
Reflect on personal experiences, and consider their effect on personal actions and professional practice.
E4) Personal development
Set achievable and realistic goals and monitor and evaluate progress towards these goals.
E5) Scientific curiosity
Demonstrate openness and curiosity when applying scientific understanding in a wider context.