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

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate underpinning 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

Operant conditioning

Classical conditioning

Learning theory supporting conditioning models

Principles and procedures of reinforcement

Thorndikes law of effect

Concept of schedule reinforcement

fixed ratio schedule

variable ratio

fixed interval schedule

variable interval schedule

Extinction of behaviours

Applications of stimulus and response theory

Banduras social learning theory

Modelling

Reinforcement positive and negative

Punishment

Functional and dysfunctional environments

Earliest learning environment family

Childhood learning environment school

Pre and adolescent peer group pressuresinfluences

Essential skills

Ability to

It is essential that competence be demonstrated in the analysis of behaviourism and the application of social learning modelling in counselling practice

The candidate must be able to

Apply negative and positive reinforcement

Apply the theory of stimulus and response in counselling practice

Analyse environmental modelling influences

Analyse behavioural outcomes of different modelling and reinforcement influences

Apply reinforcements to ensure behaviour change

Formulate and record a program for change

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

Analyse evaluate and record data

Apply theoretical concepts to case study

Determine cause and effect

Select mediating responses

Formulate strategies into a program

Devise strategies for change

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

This unit will be most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated work context and under the normal range of workplace conditions

It is recommended that assessment or information for assessment will be conducted or gathered over a period of time and cover the normal range of workplace situations and settings

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 andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit can be assessed independently however holistic assessment practice is encouraged with other units of competency relating to counselling practice

Resources required for assessment include access to

An appropriate workplace andor simulation of realistic work environment where assessment can take place

Method of assessment

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit competency should be demonstrated in a range of situations which may include

observation of performance in an actual workplace or in a setting that realistically simulates work conditions

observation should include key aspects described in elements performance criteria and relevant aspects of the Range Statement of the unit

where facetoface observation is not possible video recordings may be provided

candidates critique of their performance to demonstrate cognitive understanding of theory

written questioning

relevant case studies andor scenarios

role play

focused discussion

Related units

Assessment of this unit is recommended but not required after or in conjunction with assessment of

CHCCSLA Apply personality and development theories

CHCCSL504A Apply personality and development theories

Reinforcement may include:

Environmental modelling influences may include:

Client's environment may include:

Environmental differences may include:

Dysfunctional environments may:

Program for change may include: