The New England Award: Developing graduate attributes through extra-curricular activity

Abstract

The encouragement of the development of a set of graduate attributes in Australian universities is not new. Mostly though it takes place within the formal curriculum. The University of New England has recently introduced a noncompetitive award for extra-curricular participation and achievement of students while at university to support its graduate attributes policy. Called the New England Award (NEA), it recognises that valuable skills and attributes are developed through participation in non-accredited activities whilst at university. Eligible activities are divided into three categories: extra-curricular learning and training; preparation for the workplace including part-time paid and voluntary work; and contribution to the university and local communities. This paper is part of a professional doctoral portfolio examining the context, development and implementation of the NEA and investigating outcomes in the first two years of its operation. It appears that the New England Award is an excellent vehicle for the development of graduate attributes and other desirable personal qualities. Additionally, students benefit enormously from institutional recognition of extracurricular achievement. In return the university has more engaged and satisfied students. The key theme of this paper is that personal and professional skills including communication skills, and other attributes and attitudes sought by graduate employers can be enhanced effectively outside the curriculum through the harnessing of the broader university experience, a win-win situation for all stakeholders.