Graduate Skill - Communication

Communication is the sharing of knowledge and understanding. It is a complex skill due to the variety of modes and media available for its delivery and the level of expertise that different communicators employ. In general, communication methods are spoken, aural, written and visual or a combination of two or more. To be an effective communicator requires the use of a range of techniques and strategies, some of which relate specifically to particular methods.

Common to all methods of communication is the need for the communicator to:

• Provide a clear viewpoint (what).
• Know the intended audience (who).
• Have a purpose (why).
• Know the context (where).
• Select a relatable form of communication (how).
• Choose the most appropriate time or position (when).

The skill of accurately comprehending information (input) and accurately conveying its content and intent (output) is vital for successful communication. Communication is a skill required in all areas of life and is considered to be essential in today’s work place as employees are expected to interact positively and efficiently with clients, and each other, to the benefit of their organisation.

An effective communicator:

• Conveys ideas clearly and fluently, in both written and spoken forms.
• Clearly communicates results of research in a format suitable to the task.
• Interacts effectively with others in order to work towards a common outcome.
• Utilises discipline-specific terms accurately.
• Analyses and applies confidently a range of communication formats, strategies and technologies that are dependent on content, purpose, audience and context.
• Recognises that choice of content and method of communication manipulates the message to represent a particular viewpoint and, where applicable, justifies information with credible evidence and sources.

Introductory

• Chooses appropriate forms of communication for the context of an assignment.
• Clearly conveys ideas.
• Understands format, text type, audience and basic conventions of the discipline.
• Creates a communication product using a modelled or scaffolded approach.
• Recognises how different technologies impact the transfer of information.

Developing

• Analyses and reflects on communication strategies observed during Work Integrated Learning.
• Hones ability to communicate using a range of communication methods and integrated technologies pertinent to future profession.
• Expresses clearly reasoned viewpoints supported with credible evidence.
• Demonstrates confidence in applying strategies of coherency, succinctness and accuracy.
• Analyses and evaluates explicit feedback on quality of own communication methods.

Graduate

• Applies communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas.
• Applies a variety of communication methods effectively and proficiently across a range of contexts including professional, peer and community groups.
• Values methods of delivery and related technologies for effective transference of information; justifies selections of methods.
• Analyses and evaluates communication methods used in Work Integrated Learning and consolidates own proficiency levels in their implementation.