Engage critically

This Graduate Attribute aligns with the Queen Mary value 'Ambitious'. Developing the ability to engage with knowledge critically and reflectively is central to your experience as a Queen Mary student.

How can you develop and demonstrate this attribute at Queen Mary?

• Analyse data and produce recommendations
• Write a comparative or analytical essay
• Argue a case
• Use information to make a diagnosis
• Write critical appraisals
• Undertake a literature review
• Identify gaps in current research
• Undertake research

How might this attribute be assessed or evaluated?

• Essays / exams
• Case based / problem based learning
• Research projects and proposals
• Dissertations
• Presentations
• Debates or discussions

What kinds of interview questions could I be asked that relate to this attribute?

• How do you approach decision making? How do you decide without all the information?
• Tell us about a time when you had multiple competing deadlines - how did you decide which areas to prioritise? 
• How do you proceed when you need to solve a problem? Can you give an example?
• Describe a situation when you were presented with an idea you hadn't considered before. What did you do?

How can you use attributes and skills gained from your Queen Mary course, extra-curricular opportunities and work experience to answer these kinds of questions? 

Case studies from our graduates 

Where can I find out more and access support?

Library academic skills support online

Library academic skills workshops