The Purpose of the Graduate Capabilities Certificate

The ASMS Graduate Capabilities Certificate is a statement of the skills and attitudes developed through the specialist science and mathematics program at the ASMS.

We believe that graduates of the ASMS have the skills and attitudes which will equip them for effective participation in further study, employment and civic life.

The ASMS Graduate Capabilities certificate is a statement of the student’s demonstration of their capacity to operate scientifically and mathematically, communicate effectively, work both autonomously and collaboratively, demonstrating personal and social enterprise and demonstrating critical literacy.

Graduate Capabilities are demonstrated when the student presents significant demonstrations of learning which have evidence of depth of understanding and richness. Depth in the demonstration of learning means the task should have elements of analysis and synthesis. Richness means that the task has elements of strong personalization, connection with bodies of knowledge and connection with audiences.

Teachers assist students to understand the connection between demonstrations of learning and the Graduate Capabilities by indicating that a task is suitable for development into a demonstration of one or more elements of Graduate Capabilities. Statements about the potential use of a demonstration of learning are made in the Central Studies, University Studies, Alliance subjects, Tutor Group activities and Stage 2 subjects.

Capabilities need to be developed over the three years. In Tutor Group students have become aware of Graduate Capabilities. Students should use their ePortfolio to make links to demonstrations of learning.

Verification of ASMS Graduate Capabilities

Students should seek verification from their Tutor when the task is linked in their ePortfolio. The student should provide a statement which points to the particular aspects of the task which indicate the demonstration of a graduate capability. In Tutor Group sessions the student may need to obtain verification from another Tutor in the learning common (e.g. a teacher who helped the student with the task).

Other demonstrations of learning may come from big projects in University Studies or from work for a Science Fair. Students should seek verification from the teacher organising that activity as soon as practical after the task is completed.

A paper based form entitled ASMS Graduate Capabilities Profile could be used as a summary sheet.

The ASMS Graduate Capabilities Statement

At the completion of their studies, normally year 12, a certificate which lists the Graduate Capabilities demonstrated by the student will be issued. The certificate will only show the capabilities which have been verified.

1. Operates scientifically
Draws upon scientific knowledge and scientific methodology for the purpose of questioning, understanding and modifying their view of the world.

2. Operates mathematically
Can apply mathematical structures to situations and problems, and use mathematical problem solving strategies and techniques in solving complex problems.

3. Can communicate effectively
Can give and receive ideas and information to a range of audiences in a range of forms for a range of purposes.

4. Can work both autonomously and collaboratively
Can maintain a sustained effort in personal work and can work productively with others in a range of circumstances.

5. Can demonstrate personal & social enterprise
Can actively connect with the local, national and international communities by taking an interest in or engaging with projects of significance to them and their future.

6. Can demonstrate critical literacy
Uses a range of research strategies and makes purposeful decisions about the appropriateness and usefulness of resources to carry our projects of significant inquiry.