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.
