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 | Determine possible polymer properties based on polymer type | 1.1 | Estimate molecular weight distribution changes with polymerisation mechanisms and conditions |
| 1.2 | Predict the impact of monomer and polymer structure on polymer properties |
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2 | Estimate polymer properties based on polymer structure | 2.1 | Predict property changes caused by polarity and intermolecular forces |
| 2.2 | Determine possible polymer properties based on chain flexibility variations caused by changes in regularity, tacticity and intermolecular forces |
| 2.3 | Estimate polymer properties based on molecular weight/molecular weight distribution, degree of cross-linking |
| 2.4 | Predict barrier properties based on molecular orientation and degree of crystallisation |
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3 | Choose a polymer compound for an application | 3.1 | Select appropriate base polymer/polymers for an application based on the polymer properties |
| 3.2 | Determine reinforcements/additives required to meet product specification |
| 3.3 | Predict failure mechanism for selected compound and modify selection if appropriate |
| 3.4 | Determine the need for polymer compatibilisers and specify appropriate use if required |
| 3.5 | Develop formulation and select appropriate production |
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4 | Organise testing of polymer and interpret test results | 4.1 | Select appropriate test(s) for compounded polymer based on test purpose and limitations and material being tested |
| 4.2 | Test colour using colour coordinates as required |
| 4.3 | Interpret test results and modify formulation/production method as required to meet product specification |
Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and demonstrate the ability to:
determine polymer properties based on polymer type and polymer structure
select appropriate polymers and additives to meet product property requirements
develop formulation and determine production processes
select and organise tests
interpret test results and make modifications based on the results.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge relevant to their job sufficient to fulfil their job role, including knowledge of:
polymerisation process
polymer characteristics
property changes caused by different mechanisms and conditions for addition polymerisation
typical processing conditions for typical polymers, such as polythene
property changes caused by using bulk, suspension, solution and emulsion addition polymerisation
property changes caused by different mechanisms for condensation polymerisation
the formation of cross-linked polymers
the properties of cross-linked polymers
impact of polymerisation process on polymer properties
impact of polymer structure on polymer properties
properties and applications of polymers
the impact of tacticity on addition polymer properties
the property changes caused by different copolymer structures
the influence of molecular structure on chain regularity
the difference between polymer reinforcements and polymer composites
test methods
basic chemistry, including:
atomic structure
molecular weight
periodic table
ionic and covalent bonding
intermolecular bonding
hydrogen bonding
structure of organic compounds
functional groups and typical reactions
saturated and unsaturated compounds
aromatic compounds
hydrolysis
addition reactions
organisation procedures relevant to the work environment/job role
hierarchy of control
hazards that may arise in the job/work environment and:
their possible causes
potential consequences
appropriate risk controls.
The unit should be assessed holistically and the judgement of competence shall be based on a holistic assessment of the evidence.
The collection of performance evidence is best done from a report and/or folio of evidence drawn from:
a single project which provides sufficient evidence of the requirements of all the elements and performance criteria
multiple smaller projects which together provide sufficient evidence of the requirements of all the elements and performance criteria.
A third-party report, or similar, may be needed to testify to the work done by the individual, particularly when the project has been done as part of a project team.
Assessment should use a real project in an operational workplace. Where this is not possible or where personal safety or environmental damage are limiting factors assessment must occur using a sufficiently rigorous simulated environment that reflects realistic operational workplace conditions. This must cover all aspects of workplace performance, including environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Assessment in a simulated environment should use evidence collected from demonstration of skills and one or more of:
walk-throughs
pilot plant operation
industry-based case studies/scenarios
‘what ifs’.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews.
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.
Conditions for assessment must include access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required, including relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications associated with this unit.
The regulatory framework will be reflected in workplace policies and procedures and is not required to be independently assessed.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
In addition the assessor or anyone acting in subject matter expert role in assessment shall demonstrate both technical competency and currency. If the assessor cannot demonstrate technical competency and currency they shall assess with a subject matter expert who does meet these requirements.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through one or more of:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment
appropriate workplace experience undertaking the type of work being assessed under routine and non-routine conditions
appropriate workplace experience supervising/evaluating the type of work being assessed under routine and non-routine conditions
Currency can be demonstrated through one or more of:
being currently employed undertaking the type of work being assessed
being employed by the organisation undertaking the type of work being assessed and having maintained currency in accordance with that organisation’s policies and procedures
having consulted/had contact with an organisation undertaking the type of work being assessed within the last twelve months, the consultation/contact being related to assessment
conducting on the job training/assessments of the type of work being assessed
being an active member of a relevant professional body and participating in activities relevant to the assessment of this type of work.