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Graduate Quality - Creative and Critical Thinkers

Creative and Critical Thinkers Rubric

Program level criteria HD DN CR P FL
Logic (reasoning based on principles of validity, and the development of a clear argument

Discriminating

A well-reasoned and detailed argument containing a premise-data- conclusion. Conclusions and related outcomes (consequences and implications) are supported by clear, logical and informed evaluation. Evidence and perspectives are Discussed.

Connected/Advanced

 detailed argument containing a premise-data-conclusion. A range of information/data, including opposing viewpoints; related outcomes (consequences and implications) are identified clearly.

Relevant/connected

Premises are supported with relevant and logically connected information/data presented. Conclusion is logically tied to all premises.

Relevant

Clear premises have been identified. Premises are tied to information/data presented. Some related outcomes or conclusions are made.

Unclear and vague

No clear connection between premises, data and conclusion. Statements are inconsistently tied to some of the information discussed; related outcomes (consequences and implications) are oversimplified.

Problem Solving

Reflection on execution

A logical, consistent plan is developed to solve problems. Consequences of solutions are recognised and the reason for choosing the solution articulated.

Planning and executing

A logical consistent plan is developed to the problem after selecting from among alternatives.

Representing and formulating

The possible causes or contributing factors of the problem are identified and described. Information gathering and choice of problem solving methodology identified.

Exploring and understanding

The problem is clearly defined/identified and contributing factors/elements listed. Problem exploration evident.

Unclear and incoherent

Problem is not clearly defined and contributing factors do not logically relate. Problem is not broken down and no methodology is evident in addressing the problem. Anecdotal and unrelated information used.

Analysis

Systematic and skilful

Data/evidence is organised and relations are interpreted. Analysis of evidence reveals insightful patterns, differences, or similarities related to topic.

Thorough and effective

Data/evidence reveals important patterns, differences, or similarities. Relations between data are highlighted and thorough.

Effective descriptions/relations

Data is described, organised and clear patterns, differences, or similarities are identified.

Basic definitions/analysis

Research/ data/content is described. Relations between parts of the data and what they may mean are identified.

Lacks organisation

Conducts a basic review. Lists evidence, but it is not organized and/ or is unrelated to focus.

Evaluation

Comprehensively and insightfully

Comprehensive evaluation of solutions is deep, insightful and thorough (contains thorough and insightful explanation) and deeply considers: history of problem, reviews logic/ reasoning, examines feasibility of solution, and weighs impacts of solution.

Thoroughly explains

Evaluation critically examines, analyses and identifies key elements. A clear statement of judgement supported by facts. Determines broader, longer-term impact/change.

Effectively explains

Evaluation of solutions is adequate containing a relevant explanation and explains: history of problem, reviews logic/ reasoning, examines feasibility of solution, and weighs impacts of solution.

Accurately explains

Evaluation of solutions is brief; lacking some depth and includes descriptions of: history of problem, reviews logic/ reasoning, examines feasibility of solution, and weighs impacts of solution.

Narrow explanation

Evaluation of solutions is superficial (for example, contains cursory, surface level explanation) and includes the following: considers history of problem, reviews logic/ reasoning, examines feasibility of solution, and weighs impacts of solution.

Synthesis (creativity)

Perceptive and polished

Transforms ideas or solutions into entirely new forms. Independently creates wholes out of multiple parts and draws conclusions by combining examples, facts, or theories from more than one field of study or perspective.

Proficient

The task demonstrates the combination of ideas or solutions into a coherent whole. Independently connects examples, facts, or theories from more than one field of study or perspective.

Deeper understanding

Ideas or solutions are connected in novel ways and help to produce a new and deeper understanding of the relationship between elements. The organisation demonstrates a deeper understanding of the issue and clearly indicates connections.

Essential

Deconstructs, recognises and identifies existing or obvious connections among ideas, problems or solutions. Demonstrates understanding of the issues and organised in a simple way.

Superficial

Limited connections between data – elements and ideas are left separate.

Justification

Sophisticated and coherent

The claims, rationale and relevant facts are strong and sophisticated. This argument is detailed and evidences advanced critical thinking.

Extensive and clear

The justification has related relevant and detailed facts to the proposition or rationale. It is a well-researched and careful argument.

Critical and clear

The relationship between the facts and the rationale are clear – the claim is supported and sensible.

Evident

Reflection and examination of facts are evident a reason is given.

Unjustified

No justification made – no clear argument or point.

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