A framework to embed communication skills across the curriculum: A design-based research approach

Abstract

This paper will report on the development of a university-wide framework to embed communication skills in learning, teaching and assessment at Murdoch University. The framework is based on a multi-layered approach that aims to support both staff and students through an integrated set of services and resources. These include communication skills rubrics, professional development workshops and online resources for staff, and diagnostic assessment and online modules for students. Although the project has been driven by pragmatic, institutional needs, it has aimed to contribute to theoretical understandings concerning ways of embedding the teaching, learning and assessment of communication skills in higher education curricula. Alongside the development of a practical, university-wide Communication Skills Framework, the project has followed a design-based research approach to generate guiding principles for embedding communication skill across the curriculum in higher education.

Improving Communicative Competence through CLT Approach in Second Language Learning at the Undergraduate Level

“…In order to increase student participation in the classroom and assist graduates in understanding the significance of communication skills for the job market, resources for academic staff professional development are required (Heron, 2019;Valdez, 2015). For universities to implement the initiatives mentioned above, a framework that targets domestic and international students and embeds communication skills throughout the curriculum (Arkoudis, 2014;Johnson, Veitch, & Dewiyanti, 2015).…”

Review of selected research in applied linguistics published in Australia (2015–2022)

“…In the context of the internationalisation of higher education, where student cohorts are culturally and linguistically diverse, one of the challenges is ensuring students' continuous language development within mainstream disciplinary learning (Arkoudis, 2014;Johnson et al, 2015). Consequently, changes to curriculum have focused on providing embedded language support to enable students to continue to develop their English language proficiency and academic literacy in higher education institutions (Drury, 2018;Moore et al, 2018).…”