SP2 sussex postgraduate skills programmes

skills audit (based on Joint Statement by Research Councils)

Joint Skills
Statement
reference
(A) Research skills & techniques Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
A1 I am able to recognise and validate
problems.

A2 I can demonstrate original,

independent and critical thinking,
and the ability to develop
theoretical concepts.

A3 I have a knowledge of recent

advances within my field and in
related areas.
A4 I understand relevant research
methodologies and techniques and
their appropriate
application within my research
field.
A5 I am able to critically analyse and
evaluate my findings and those of
others.

A6 I am able to summarise, document,

report and reflect on progress.
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(B) Research Environment Current Best current example Ways to improve

level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
B1 I have a broad understanding of
the context, at the national and
international level, in which
research takes place
B2 I am aware of issues relating to
the rights of other researchers,
of research subjects, and of
others who may be affected by
the research, eg confidentiality,
ethical issues, copyright,
ownership of data and the
requirements of the Data
Protection Act.
B3 I appreciate and apply the
standards of good research
practice in my institution and/or
discipline.
B4 I understand relevant health and
safety issues and demonstrate
responsible working practices.
B5 I understand the processes for
funding and evaluation of
research.
B6 I can justify the principles and
experimental techniques used in
my own research.
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B7
sussex postgraduate skills programmes
I understand the process of
academic or commercial
exploitation of research results.
(C) Research management Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
C1 I manage projects effectively
through the setting of research
goals, intermediate milestones
and prioritisation of activities.
C2 I can design and execute
systems for the acquisition and
collation of information through
the effective use of appropriate
resources and equipment.
C3 I can identify and access
appropriate bibliographical
resources, archives, and other
sources of relevant information.
C4 I use information technology
appropriately for database
management, recording and
presenting information.
D) Personal effectiveness Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
D1 I have a willingness and ability
to learn and acquire knowledge.

D2 I am creative, innovative and

 SP2 sussex postgraduate skills programmes
original in my approach to
research.
D3 I demonstrate flexibility and
open-mindedness.
D4 I am self-aware and have the
ability to identify my own training
needs.
D5 I can demonstrate self-
discipline, motivation and
thoroughness.
D6 I recognise boundaries and
draw upon/use sources of
support as appropriate
D7 I show initiative, work
independently and am self-
reliant
E) Communication skills Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
E1 I can write clearly and in a style
appropriate to purpose, eg
progress reports, published
documents, and thesis.
E2 I can construct coherent
arguments and articulate ideas
clearly to a range of audiences,
formally and informally through
a variety of techniques.
E3 I can constructively defend
research outcomes at seminars
 SP2 sussex postgraduate skills programmes
and viva examination.
E4 I contribute to promoting the
public understanding of my
research field.

E5 I effectively support the learning

of others when involved in
teaching, mentoring or
demonstrating activities.
F) Networking and teamworking Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
F1 I am developing and maintaining
co-operative networks and
working relationships with
supervisors, colleagues and
peers, within the institution and
the wider research community.
F2 I understand my behaviours and
impact on others when working
in and contributing to the
success of formal and informal
teams.
F3 I listen, give and receive
feedback and respond
perceptively to others.
G) Career management Current Best current example Ways to improve
level
5 = Strong
1= Weak
G1 I appreciate the need for and
SP2 sussex postgraduate skills programmes
show commitment to continued
professional development.
G2 I take ownership for and
manage my career progression,
set realistic and achievable
career goals, and identify and
develop ways to improve my
employability.
G3 I can demonstrate insight into
the transferable nature of
research skills to other work
environments and the range of
career opportunities within and
outside academia.
G4 I can present my skills, personal
attributes and experiences
through effective CVs,
applications and interviews.