Generic indicators

The generic indicators unpack the seven Research Degree Graduate Qualities in greater depth.

1. Research knowledge and methodologies

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia has an understanding of current research-based knowledge in the field and its methodologies for creating new knowledge, and can create, critique and appraise new and significant knowledge.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• be informed by the forefront of their academic discipline or professional area
• be able to create new knowledge, making an original and significant contribution to knowledge or to the application of knowledge in their research area
• display critical awareness of current problems and new insights
• command highly specialised and advanced technical, professional research skills to extend the forefront of the discipline or professional area
• demonstrate an informed and critical understanding of the research literature in their research area
• have a knowledge of appropriate research methodologies in their research area.

2. Lifelong learning

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence in research within and beyond a discipline or professional area.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• demonstrate advanced information retrieval and processing skills including data management and bibliographic resources
• be able to apply data analysis software and techniques
• take responsibility for their own continuing professional and academic development
• make professional use of others in support of self-directed learning
• continue to undertake pure and/or applied research and development at an advanced level
• possess a knowledge of the discourse of their discipline or professional area and the learning and thinking strategies that will contribute to their ongoing and future development.

3. Problem solving and research

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia is an effective problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of research problems.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• be able to define researchable questions in the discipline or professional area
• be able to design, select and apply appropriate research methodologies
• initiate creative responses to problems
• deal with complex issues in specialist fields systematically and creatively
• effectively apply intellectual and technological resources and tools to significant research issues.

4. Autonomous and collaborative research

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher within a particular discipline or professional area and within wider but related areas.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• demonstrate intellectual independence and be able to work in a self-directed way
• be able to formulate solutions in dialogue with peers, clients and others
• take a role as recognised leader or consultant in a team situation
• be able to work with and within a research team towards defined outcomes
• be able to negotiate and handle conflict.

5. Ethical and social issues in research

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia is committed to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• be aware of ethical obligations to self, family, the research community and society generally
• be aware of ethical dilemmas likely to arise in research and professional practice
• be able to identify issues and social responsibility and sustainability that arise from the implications of new knowledge generated in their research area.

6. Communication of research knowledge

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia communicates effectively as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading member of the community.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• be able to communicate effectively within a discipline and professional area
• be able to communicate their own research results both orally and in writing.

7. International perspectives on research

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia demonstrates international perspectives in research in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.

Generic indicators

A research degree graduate will:

• appreciate the relation between their local discipline or professional area and its international counterpart
• use a range of research sources and literature that provide an appropriate balance between local and international perspectives.