Embedding Reflection in Graduate Attributes

Swingler, M. and Hendry, G. (2019) Embedding Reflection in Graduate Attributes. European Society for Psychology Learning and Teaching Biannual Conference (ESPLAT 2019), Utrecht, The Netherlands, 25-27 Sep 2019.

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Publisher's URL: https://esplat2019.org/program

Abstract

Previous research indicates that levels of awareness and engagement with Graduate Attributes (GAs) at undergraduate level are often low and that students often don’t record their achievements officially through student records such as the HEAR (Morris, Cranney, Jeong & Mellish, 2013; Wakeham, 2016). To address the issues of student engagement and awareness we designed, implemented and evaluated a number of interventions with psychology pre-honours students. We found that after reflecting on their graduate attributes, students’ self-efficacy in GAs increased and was positively related to self-efficacy and self-esteem in H.E. Qualitative analysis elicited the following themes: Lack of awareness of GAs; Perceived value of GAs; Demonstrating GAs; Applicability of GAs. Overall the themes indicated that students were aware of the value of GAs, often from extra-curricular and part-time work. However, students expressed uncertainty on how to develop specific GAs and how these applied to graduate jobs. We will discuss case studies of good practice which embed employability in the curriculum, in light of the challenges facing new graduates entering a volatile job market.

Item Type:Conference or Workshop Item
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hendry, Dr Gillian and Swingler, Dr Maxine
Authors: Swingler, M., and Hendry, G.
Subjects:B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Psychology

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