Scholarly and Digital Capabilities Framework
A framework for building students’ capabilities with data, information, knowledge and technologies for 21st century learning, research and work
A framework integrating scholarly literacies and digital capabilities for students
The Scholarly and Digital Capabilities Framework is a conceptual tool for staff and students that supports the University’s goals for digital transformation and the development of digitally fluent, future-focused graduates. The framework is also a practical tool for student support teams to partner with academic and teaching staff to embed scholarly and digital capabilities in the curriculum, applying the capabilities to specific disciplinary areas. The current version of the framework has been updated in 2020 by Student and Scholarly Services in collaboration with academic staff from each faculty/school and students studying across discipline areas at all academic levels.
Alignment with University strategies and plans
The Scholarly and Digital Capabilities Framework has been updated to align with the University’s key strategies and plans, including Advancing Melbourne, the Scholarly Information Futures Strategy 2020-2025, and The University of Melbourne Reconciliation Action Plan. The framework is further informed by the Flexible Academic Programming (FlexAP) project and pedagogical guidelines defined in The Melbourne Way.
Elements of the framework
The framework integrates the scholarly literacies and digital capabilities that the University of Melbourne seeks to develop in students. This integrated perspective on student skill development recognises that capabilities with data, information, knowledge and technologies are fundamental for 21st century learning, research and work.
Four domains of knowledge aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) are included in the framework.
- Directed research for undergraduate programs at AQF Level 7
- Guided research for honours and graduate certificate and diploma programs at AQF Level 8
- Self-directed research for graduate coursework (masters) programs at AQF Level 9
- Independent research for graduate research programs (doctoral) at AQF Level 10)
For each knowledge domain, descriptors are provided across five related clusters of capabilities including:
- search, navigate, locate
- evaluate, analyse, review
- organise, manage, curate
- create, collaborate, reflect
- communicate, connect, share
To discuss using the Scholarly and Digital Capability Framework in your course or subject, please contact your Faculty Librarian.