Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to search and analyse information from a range of bibliographic and full text databases, evaluate these against specific criteria, and then present this information to relevant stakeholders.
The unit applies to individuals who undertake regular database searches as part of their information services role. Work is undertaken with limited supervision and according to organisational and system guidelines.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify and access databases | 1.1 Identify range of databases available to information services providers 1.2 Differentiate between databases and internet websites as sources of information 1.3 Select databases to meet specific information needs 1.4 Use required procedures to access databases 1.5 Comply with copyright and licensing conditions relevant to use of databases |
2. Construct searches | 2.1 Conduct database searches using search techniques relevant to information needs 2.2 Use databases to access required information 2.3 Consult manuals to refine or revise search strategies, where required |
3. Present information | 3.1 Evaluate search results to meet identified information needs 3.2 Organise and present information according to stakeholder needs |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must demonstrate the ability to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including evidence of the ability to:
access, search and present information from at least three different databases.
In the course of the above, the candidate must:
adopt search techniques to source information in response to a range of customer needs
use current industry systems and equipment
respond to multiple and varied information requests.
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must be able to demonstrate knowledge to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including knowledge of:
role of databases in context of the information services industry
scope and type of databases available to information services providers
features of commonly used databases, including:
bibliographic information
downloadable records
full text availability
thesaurus or subject authority
differences between database and internet searching
relevant copyright, moral rights and intellectual property issues and legislation relevant to the use of information from databases.
Assessment Conditions
Skills in this unit must be demonstrated in a workplace or simulated environment where the conditions are typical of those in a working environment in this industry.
This includes access to:
technology and databases to support information searching
special purpose tools, equipment, materials and relevant industry software packages relevant to performance evidence.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
Reading | Critically analyses information from a variety of sources and consolidates information to determine requirements |
Writing | Records and completes organisational documents using clear language and correct spelling, grammar and terminology |
Oral Communication | Uses appropriate techniques, including active listening and questioning, to clarify information and confirm understanding |
Numeracy | Extracts and evaluates mathematical information embedded in a range of tasks and texts |
Problem solving | Responds to predictable routine problems and implements standard or logical solutions |
Self-management | Takes responsibility for planning, sequencing and prioritising tasks and own workload for efficiency and effective outcomes |
Technology | Uses familiar digital technologies and systems to access information, search and enter data, present information, and use databases |
Sectors
Technical Skills – Information Services