Elements and Performance Criteria
- Perform scientific calculations
- Ensure raw data are consistent with expectations and reasonable ranges.
- Calculate scientific quantities involving algebraic, power, exponential and/or logarithmic functions.
- Ensure calculated quantities are consistent with estimations.
- Present results using the appropriate units, uncertainties and number of significant figures.
- Determine variation and/or uncertainty in data distributions
- Organise raw data into appropriate frequency distributions.
- Calculate means, medians, modes, ranges and standard deviations for ungrouped and grouped data.
- Interpret frequency distributions to determine the characteristics of the sample or population.
- Calculate standard deviations and confidence limits for means and replicates.
- Estimate the sampling error and/or uncertainty in data using statistical analysis.
- Determine data acceptability using statistical tests and workplace procedures.
- Interpret data and related statistics
- Recognise significant trends in data.
- Use standard statistical methods to test for an association or correlation between variables.
- Use standard statistical methods to test hypotheses involving the same variable between samples, samples with more than one variable and for paired samples.
- Verify data interpretation with supervisor, as necessary.
- Check for aberrant data sets
- Report data and analysis
- Use charts, tables and graphs to present summarised data and analysis results in the required format.
- Verify that entry of data and results are correct.
- Clearly identify summary information and any significant trends and/or problems with data.
- Prepare reports in a format and style consistent with their intended use and workplace guidelines.
- Communicate results within the specified time and in accordance with workplace confidentiality and security guidelines.