Graduate Attribute 4: Knowledge of Discipline

Knowledge of a discipline is defined as "command of a discipline to enable a smooth transition and contribution to professional and community settings (SCU Graduate Attribute 4)."

This Graduate Attribute describes the capability of demonstrating comprehensive and considered knowledge of a discipline. It enables students to evaluate and utilise information and apply their disciplinary knowledge and their professional skills in the workplace.

Examples of how knowledge of a discipline is integrated into the curriculum can be found in the clinical assessments of Health & Human Sciences School units, and school based practicums in the Education School units.

These supervised assessments are learning places where students are given the opportunity to act as neophyte professionals and to sharpen their knowledge and workplace understandings. The role of the supervisor in providing feedback and guidance is critical. It helps develop the confidence and awareness of the importance of solid knowledge of a discipline.

A further example is the exercise of Grand Rounds found in senior Health & Human Sciences based units where students present case studies to peers and supervisors. Students describe the case, the diagnosis, the challenges, the treatment, the conclusions and the learnings they drew from their experience. Questions from peers and supervisors require students to be secure and confident in their knowledge of the discipline.

A Bachelor of Nursing assessment requires students to achieve 100% in a numeracy exam. Building upon tutorial and laboratory activities students must demonstrate their ability to accurately interpret and correctly calculate intravenous medication orders. This assessment is a critical indicator of their development of knowledge of a discipline.

The table below highlights how this Graduate Attribute relates to unit learning outcomes, and demonstrates relevant learning strategies.