The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this unit of competency:

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Evidence of competency in this unit will need to be assessed over a period of time in order to gather evidence of performance

This will include contexts applicable to the work environment, such as actual or simulated workplace situations involving a combination of direct, indirect and supplementary forms of evidence

Evidence will be guided by selection from the Range Statement, justified in terms of work requirements, work roles and responsibilities and occupational specialisations

Access and equity considerations:

All workers in community services should be aware of access, equity and human rights issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Context of and specific resources for assessment:

This unit can be assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other community services units of competency is encouraged

Where assessment is conducted within the workplace there are no resource implications above those normally available in the workplace

Method of assessment:

Demonstration of competency within the working environment to learn from others and reflect on performance

Where there is not an opportunity to cover all relevant aspects in the work environment, the remainder should be assessed through realistic simulations, projects, previous relevant experience or oral questioning on 'What if?' scenarios

Observation of processes and procedures, oral and/or written questions on Essential knowledge and skills and consideration of required attitudes

Where performance is not directly observed and/or is required to be demonstrated over a period of time and/or in a number of locations, any evidence should be authenticated by colleagues, supervisors, clients or other appropriate persons

Review of any documentation produced by the candidate related to self development

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

These include knowledge of:

Agency's policies, plans and procedures

Knowledge, skills and ethics relevant to current industry and professional standards and codes of ethics and practice

Personal development opportunities and options

Principles and techniques of:

personal goal setting

measuring performance

time management

identifying personal behaviour, self awareness, personality traits

establishing a personal development plan

Relevance of the work role and functions to maintaining sustainability of the workplace, including environmental, economic, workforce and social sustainability

Relevant legislation and agency guidelines and codes of ethics or practice standards

Relevant organisation goals and objectives

Requirements for professional well being, including:

work/life balance

emotional well being

physical well being

workplace health

personal skills

Types of learning style/s and how they relate to the individual

Types of work methods and practices which can improve personal performance

Essential skills:

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:

Analyse culturally different viewpoints and taking them into account in personal development and professional practice

Analyse own performance

Apply skills in negotiation, communication and decision-making

Assess impact of professional practice on others

Assess the effectiveness of own skills development

Demonstrate understanding and implementation of relevant procedures

Demonstrate ongoing reflection on and development of personal capability to meet professional standards, in particular to:

actively seek professional development opportunities

seek and reflect upon feedback

seek opportunities for supervision / mentoring

identify and participate in personal development

integrate learning into improved practice

Develop and maintain professional supports and networks

Elicit, analyse and interpret feedback

Maintain professional well being

Monitor research trends related to roles and responsibilities

Research information to develop personal development and work plans

Use information systems to assist establish work plans

Work toward a balance between own values and beliefs and the requirements of the job

Work with an awareness and sensitivity to conflict, culture and context.

In addition, the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

These include the ability to:

Demonstrate application of skills in:

communication skills including receiving and analysing feedback and reporting

interpreting written and oral information about workplace requirements

Take into account, use and promote effectively opportunities to address environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues, including efficient use of resources

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Sources of information about current best professional practice may include:

Books

Journals

Lectures

Professional groups

Seminars

Workshops

Circumstances required to operate effectively may include, but is not limited to:

Ability and/or acceptance of:

Critical thinking

Leadership

Long work hours

Problem solving

Relationships

Travel

Work as a member of a team

Work autonomously

Working in isolation.

Requirements to maintain professional well being refer to:

Emotional well being

Physical well being

Time management

Work/life balance

Workplace health - personal skills

Sources of professional support may include:

Colleagues

Manager

Mentor

Professional group (formal and informal)