Conclusion

Conclusion

A multi-phased action research methodology was used to capture the opinions of employers, stakeholders, alumni, staff, and students about the Learner Capability Framework. The study included the iamcapable tool, a web-based application enabling teachers and students to track and produce verified evidence of capability development. Among the three groups surveyed the most important capabilities for successful graduate entry into the workplace were: ‘Communicates Effectively Verbally’, ‘Displays Effective Interpersonal Behaviour’, ‘Works in Teams’, closely followed by ‘Solves Problems’, ‘Works Independently’, ‘Communicates Effectively in Writing’, ‘Organises Effectively’, and ‘Demonstrates Resilience’. There was no evidence that the capabilities differed substantially from a Kaupapa Māori perspective.

A strength of this research is the quantity and quality of data collected and analysed, indicating the willingness of employers to be involved in collaborative research. Another positive feature was the number of staff wishing to be engaged in discipline related action research. Overall, these results demonstrate that the Learner Capability Framework is ‘fit for purpose’ and provided reassurance that Otago Polytechnic can move forward with implementing it into curricula, knowing that employers value a range of capabilities in the people who make up their teams. Staff can be assured that employers do value capabilities, and in some cases, as much as or more than competencies.