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

Group selection processes

Relevant subject matter of the delivery

The content and requirements of the learning program andor delivery plan

Learner group profile including characteristics and needs of individual learners in the group

Different delivery methods and techniques appropriate to facetoface group delivery

Adult learning theory and models

Behaviours in group participants which may indicate difficulties with content or processes

Conflict resolution and mediation

Evaluationrevision techniques for example

development of assessment criteria

developing simple questionnaires and feedback forms

administering evaluation forms

using questioning for evaluation purposes

Specific resources and support services available for group participants including those with special needs

Organisation and program requirements for evaluation and reporting

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Effectively facilitate a group including being able to

facilitate discussion and group interaction

maintain group cohesion

handle difficult situations

manage group activities

manage conflict

observe and interpret behaviour that puts others at risk

Apply adult learning theory and techniques

Apply different delivery and facilitation methods techniques such as

demonstrationmodelling

instruction

presentationslectures

guided facilitation of individual and group learning activitiesgroup workcase studies

initiating and facilitating group discussions

brainstorming activities

enabling and supporting effective learner participation

Use time and process management skills within a group facilitation context

Model effective respectful and inclusive communication skills including listening empathetic responding paraphrasing summarising questioning body language models of conflict resolution assertiveness tact and sensitivity

Maintain records appropriate to the group

Work effectively and inclusively with the whole client considering the full range of possible influences in their lives including personality culture language religion age gender family of origin education levels learning abilities health disabilities and issues and the interplay and dynamics of group members

Demonstrate awareness of self own values beliefs and experiences which may impact on work practice

Engage in critical reflection and selfevaluation of work practice

Respond appropriately to group dynamics

Protect self whilst leading facilitating the group

Respond to strong emotional expression in the group

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 in the application of the planning delivery and review of short structured programs within identified resources including timeframes

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

Assessment must confirm sufficient ability to deliver short structured programs to groups

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 with other community services units of competency is encouraged

Resources required for assessment include access to an appropriate workplace or simulation of realistic workplace setting where assessment can take place

Method of assessment

Evidence for assessment of competence may be gathered by appropriate combination of the following

demonstration of competency within the working environment through the facilitation of short structured groups selected through appropriate application of a selection process

realistic simulations projects previous relevant experience or oral questioning on what if scenarios case presentations written assessment

observation of processes and procedures oral andor written questions on essential knowledge and skills and consideration of required attitudes

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

The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate

Assessment practices should take into account any relevant language or cultural issues related to Aboriginality gender or language barriers other than English

Where the candidate has a disability reasonable adjustment may be applied during assessment

Language and literacy demands of the assessment task should not be higher than those of the work role

Related units

This unit is to be assessed after or in conjunction with the following related unit of competency

CHCGROUPD Plan and conduct group activities

CHCGROUP403D Plan and conduct group activities

Special needsmay include:

Pre-group assessmentmay include but is not limited to:

Conditions potentially incompatible with program objectives may include:

Selection criteria may include

Boundaries and limitations of program may include:

Presentation toolsmay include:

Support servicesmay include but is not limited to: