Sustainability capabilities, graduate capabilities, and Australian universities
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 1 April 2014
Abstract
Purpose
In the context of universities implementing education for sustainability (EfS), the aim of the research presented here is to review the extent to which capabilities related to sustainability are represented by the capabilities generally sought by employers, and to determine whether these are incorporated in the graduate capability statements of Australian universities.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on the discussion of graduate capabilities and those associated with sustainability, a web-based survey of university graduate attribute statements was undertaken.
Findings
Generally, Australian universities have established frameworks of graduate capabilities that relate to the broad needs of employers. Of eight capabilities listed as important by employers, six were identified at some two-thirds of universities. Just under half of the universities' statements contained references to sustainability, while all the literature derived sustainability capabilities, except for “systems/holistic thinking”, are represented to some degree. Those most strongly represented included understanding of social justice and equity; skills in communication and cooperation; and having commitment to social justice and equity.
Practical implications
Apparently, in Australian universities, the framework for the development of sustainability capabilities is broadly in place, but not all have sustainability capabilities in place. This framework supports the implementation of EfS, but without development of pedagogy to underlie implementation, the authors have little insight about the extent of implementation, and whether graduates leave with sustainability capabilities.
Originality/value
Uniquely this research identifies the extent to which Australian universities are providing direction in the development of capabilities related to the requirements of employers, and for sustainability.
Keywords
Citation
Thomas, I. and Day, T. (2014), "Sustainability capabilities, graduate capabilities, and Australian universities", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 208-227. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-05-2012-0046
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited