Open AccessDeveloping professional communication skills: Perceptions and reflections of domestic and international graduates
Author(s) -
Katrine Sonnenschein,
Janet Ferguson
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of university teaching and learning practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.258
H-Index - 8
ISSN - 1449-9789
DOI - 10.53761/1.17.3.5
Subject(s) - intercultural communication , medical education , communication skills , presentation (obstetrics) , perception , skills management , psychology , psychological intervention , professional development , work (physics) , professional communication , pedagogy , china , political science , medicine , engineering , management , mechanical engineering , neuroscience , psychiatry , law , economics , radiology
Communication is considered a crucial skill set by employers who require universities to develop students’ communication skills, to meet their requirements in the workplace. This study focuses on graduates’ perceptions of their skill in professional communication; its development during their studies; and its value when making the transition to employment. The paper is based on two studies undertaken in Australia with interviews with graduates. The graduates are both of Australian and Chinese origin working in Australia and China across various industries. Presentation skills, writing, and intercultural skills were considered most important. Although most participants were satisfied with the way they had developed these skills at the Australian university, some international graduates needed more help from university to attain these skills. Recommendations regarding structured interventions for intercultural communication, work-integrated learning, and professional training of academic staff were provided.