List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 | Perform scientific calculations | 1.1 | Ensure raw data are consistent with expectations and reasonable ranges. |
| 1.2 | Calculate scientific quantities involving algebraic, power, exponential and/or logarithmic functions. |
| 1.3 | Ensure calculated quantities are consistent with estimations. |
| 1.4 | Present results using the appropriate units, uncertainties and number of significant figures. |
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2 | Determine variation and/or uncertainty in data distributions | 2.1 | Organise raw data into appropriate frequency distributions. |
| 2.2 | Calculate means, medians, modes, ranges and standard deviations for ungrouped and grouped data. |
| 2.3 | Interpret frequency distributions to determine the characteristics of the sample or population. |
| 2.4 | Calculate standard deviations and confidence limits for means and replicates. |
| 2.5 | Estimate the sampling error and/or uncertainty in data using statistical analysis. |
| 2.6 | Determine data acceptability using statistical tests and workplace procedures. |
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3 | Interpret data and related statistics | 3.1 | Recognise significant trends in data. |
| 3.2 | Use standard statistical methods to test for an association or correlation between variables. |
| 3.3 | Use standard statistical methods to test hypotheses involving the same variable between samples, samples with more than one variable and for paired samples. |
| 3.4 | Verify data interpretation with supervisor, as necessary. |
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4 | Check for aberrant data sets | 4.1 | Identify data that cannot be reconciled with sample, data set and/or documentation, monitoring procedures and/or expected outcomes. |
| 4.2 | Determine appropriate actions in consultation with supervisor, as necessary. |
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5 | Report data and analysis | 5.1 | Use charts, tables and graphs to present summarised data and analysis results in the required format. |
| 5.2 | Verify that entry of data and results are correct. |
| 5.3 | Clearly identify summary information and any significant trends and/or problems with data. |
| 5.4 | Prepare reports in a format and style consistent with their intended use and workplace guidelines. |
| 5.5 | Communicate results within the specified time and in accordance with workplace confidentiality and security guidelines. |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
storing, retrieving and manipulating environmental data in accordance with workplace procedures and traceability requirements
performing calculations with or without a calculator/computer software and presenting accurate results in the required format and timeframe
calculating at least four (4) scientific quantities relevant to their work
choosing appropriate graphical/statistical methods to analyse given data sets
preparing frequency distributions for given data, and calculating and interpreting measures of central tendency and dispersion
analysing data to determine relationships between variables and samples
seeking advice when issues/problems are beyond scope of competence/responsibility
maintaining the security and confidentiality of data in accordance with workplace and regulatory requirements
reporting results in the required formats and expected timeframe.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
characteristics of a valid measurement and valid sample
sources and estimates of uncertainty in measurements
role of statistics in the interpretation/analysis of environmental data
relevant terminology, such as variables, dispersion, central tendency, normal distribution, confidence level and replication, inference, causation, association, correlation and hypothesis
calculations involving evaluation of formulae containing algebraic, power, exponential and/or logarithmic functions, measures of central tendency, sum of squares, variance and standard deviation
preparation and interpretation on linear and non-linear graphs, and frequency distribution plots
determination of regression line equations and correlation coefficients
statistical analysis and significance tests, such as t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi squared test and data acceptability tests, such as Q, T and Youden
procedures for ensuring data traceability
procedures for verifying data and rectifying mistakes
procedures for maintaining and filing records, and maintaining security of data.
Judgement of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.
This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace, or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of data worksheets, calculations, computer files (such as spreadsheets and databases), statistical analysis, graphs and/or tables prepared by the candidate
review of at least one (1) report containing summarised data and analysis results prepared by the candidate
feedback from supervisors regarding the candidate’s ability to analyse and report data in accordance with workplace procedures and within the agreed timeframe
oral and/or written questions to assess the candidate’s knowledge of relevant data handling procedures, graphical/statistical methods, trends in data and sources of uncertainty.
Access is required to all instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures, and specifications associated with this unit including, but not limited to:
calculator, computer and relevant software or laboratory information system
environmental data sets and records
documentation, including user manuals; workplace procedures for recording, processing, storing and reporting environmental data; and test/survey methods.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
The assessor must demonstrate both technical competency and currency.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR
relevant workplace experience
Currency can be demonstrated through:
performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR
having consulted with an organisation providing environmental monitoring, management or technology related services about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.