Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to evaluate suitability of species as solutions for permaculture applications.
It requires knowledge of botany, zoology, ecology and climate science and the ability to research species in detail and make recommendations for a particular scenario. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
This unit applies to individuals who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Research species in detail and assess for usefulness | 1.1 Carry out research into species for use in the permaculture project 1.2 Assess the usefulness of species for the roles or functions required in the system 1.3 Document research and include photographs or illustrations for correct identification |
2. Assess the needs of the permaculture system | 2.1 Undertake a complex needs analysis of the permaculture system 2.2 Confirm that the species selected will provide the solutions needed 2.3 Undertake further research if needed |
3. Recommend species as solutions for permaculture applications | 3.1 Prepare a report recommending species as solutions to permaculture applications 3.2 Support the recommendations with evidence from the research 3.3 Explain species interactions and inter-relationships |
4. Evaluate suitability of species in a permaculture design | 4.1 Review the permaculture design once species are in place 4.2 Evaluate suitability of the species in the design 4.3 Re-assess any species that are not performing the function as expected 4.4 Research alternatives or additional species to support the function |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
research species for use in a permaculture project
assess the usefulness of species in a permaculture project
assess the needs of a permaculture system
recommend species as solutions for permaculture applications
evaluate the suitability of species in a permaculture design
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of permaculture related to needs of species and systems
botany and zoology fundamentals
research methodology
complex needs analysis
permaculture design strategies for species selection and inter-relationships
Comparative analysis techniques
Critical evaluation techniques for both written and graphic representations of permaculture design
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs. Assessors must also have a nationally accredited Certificate IV or Diploma of Permaculture. Completion of a Permaculture Design Course (PDC) or non-accredited Permaculture Diploma is not sufficient at this level.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Permaculture (PER)