This unit was developed for Defence test and evaluation workers but is applicable to individuals who work in this field. Typically these individuals must work independently or as part of a team under direct and indirect supervision, use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their output. All activities are carried out in accordance with relevant organisational policy and procedures. | |
Not applicable.
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Perform scientific calculations | 1.1 Consistency of raw data with expectations and reasonable ranges is ensured 1.2 Scientific quantities are calculated 1.3 Calculated quantities and estimations are accurately determined. 1.4 Results are presented using the appropriate units, uncertainties and number of significant figures |
2. Analyse trends and relationships in data | 2.1 Relationships are determined between sets of data 2.2 Data are prepared and analysed to determine if a process is in control 2.3 Possible causes for out-of-control condition are identified 2.4 Organisational procedures are followed to return process to in-control operation |
3. Determine variation and/or uncertainty in data distributions | 3.1 Raw data is organised into appropriate frequency distributions 3.2 Statistical properties are calculated for ungrouped and grouped data 3.3 Statistical properties are interpreted to determine characteristics of sample or population 3.4 Standard deviations and confidence limits are calculated for means and replicates 3.5 Uncertainty in measurements is determined using statistical analysis 3.6 Data acceptability is determined using statistical tests and organisational procedures |
4. Check for aberrant results | 4.1 Results that cannot be reconciled with documentation, testing procedures and/or expected outcomes are identified 4.2 Appropriate actions are determined in consultation with supervisor as required |
5. Maintain results | 5.1 Data is stored, retrieved and manipulated following document traceability procedures 5.2 Results are presented in an appropriate format 5.3 Entry of data and results are verified as correct 5.4 Security and confidentiality of data is maintained in accordance with workplace and regulatory requirements 5.5 Reports are prepared in a format and style consistent with their intended use and organisational guidelines |
This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Required Skills |
complete mathematical calculations such as fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions and percent evaluate mathematical formulae interpret scientific properties prepare and interpret data prepare and interpret graphs |
Required Knowledge |
characteristics of a valid measurement procedures for data traceability procedures for maintaining and filing records, security of data procedures for verifying data and rectifying mistakes relevant scientific terminology sources of uncertainty in measurements |
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit | Nil Consistency in performance Competency should be demonstrated over time and should be observed in a range of actual or simulated work contexts. |
Context of and specific resources for assessment | Context of assessment Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment. Specific resources for assessment Access is required to: computer and relevant software or laboratory information system data sets and records relevant workplace procedures. |
Guidance information for assessment | In all cases, practical assessment should be supported by questions to assess required knowledge and those aspects of competency which are difficult to assess directly. Questioning techniques should suit the language and literacy levels of the candidate. Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands such as literacy and the needs of particular groups. Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this unit may include, but are not limited to, a combination of: authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training programs case studies demonstration feedback from supervisors and peers regarding the candidate's ability observation portfolios projects questioning reviews or reports prepared by the candidate scenarios simulation or role plays. |
The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below. | |
Data may include | Audio Electronic (digital or analogue) recordings/logs Imagery including satellite Linear, semi-log and log-log graphs Observations Physical components Physical evidence Qualitative statements Statistical results |
Calculations of scientific quantities may include | Electrical properties: conductivity, resistivity, dielectric constants Mathematical calculations such as: algebraic, logarithmic, exponential, power functions, means, medians, modes, ranges, standard deviations, regression line equations and correlation coefficients Mechanical properties: stress, strain, elastic moduli, yield strength, hardness Optical properties: absorbance/transmittance, path length, extinction coefficient, concentration (Beer's Law), detection limits Percentage and absolute uncertainties in measurements and test results Quantities associated with quality control monitoring, assessment and reporting Thermal properties: heat capacity, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, thermal resistance |
Analysis may include | Graphical analysis including: determination of linear, logarithmic, exponential and power relationships regression lines and interpretation of correlation coefficients Statistical analysis including: analysis of variance (ANOVA) data acceptability tests, such as Q, T and Youden histograms, frequency plots, stem and leaf plots, boxplots, scatter plots means, medians, modes, ranges and standard deviations Pareto diagrams, Stewhart control charts, CuSum control charts probability, normal probability plots regression methods for calibration, linearity checks, comparing analytical methods |
Organisations may include | Defence Defence contractors and sub-contractors Defence Materiel Organisation Defence Science and Technology Organisation International test agencies Universities |
Statistical properties may include | Frequency distributions Means Medians Modes Ranges Standard deviations |
Not applicable.
This unit contains employability skills. | |
Pre-requisite Unit/s | Nil |
Not applicable.