ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Collect and analyse workplace information

1.1 Required information is collected and analysed under direction.

1.2 Routine information is checked and recorded in accordance with organisational format/s.

1.3 Maintenance of data systems is undertaken to ensure records are accurate and up-to-date.

1.4 Internal data storage systems are updated, accessed and searched as required.

1.5 Workplace procedures related to security and confidentiality are applied to information handling.

2. Process workplace information

2.1 Incoming information is sorted and distributed within defined timeframes.

2.2 Problems in processing routine information are identified and communicated to relevant staff.

2.3 Information storage and filing systems are established and maintained in accordance with legislation, policy and procedures.

This section describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Skill requirements

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

handling files

handling mail

applying information security requirements

applying computer technology to data storage, retrieval and presentation

converting one information type to another (such as scanning)

applying basic statistical and numerical manipulation

using problem solving and referring problems as required

communicating with colleagues and supervisors

responding to diversity, including gender and disability

Knowledge requirements

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:

legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines relating to information handling in the public sector, such as confidentiality, privacy, security, freedom of information

organisational procedures for handling information

electronic and manual filing systems

databases and data storage systems

equal employment opportunity, equity and diversity principles

occupational health and safety and environmental procedures relating to information handling

The Evidence Guide specifies the evidence required to demonstrate achievement in the unit of competency as a whole. It must be read in conjunction with the Unit descriptor, Performance Criteria, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Public Sector Training Package.

Units to be assessed together

Pre-requisite units that must be achieved prior to this unit:Nil

Co-requisite units that must be assessed with this unit:Nil

Co-assessed units that may be assessed with this unit to increase the efficiency and realism of the assessment process include, but are not limited to:

PSPGOV201B Work in a public sector environment

PSPGOV202B Use routine workplace communication techniques

PSPGOV203B Deliver a service to clients

PSPGOV204B Access and use resources

PSPGOV207B Use technology in the workplace

PSPGOV208A Write routine workplace materials

PSPOHS201B Follow workplace safety procedures

Overview of evidence requirements

In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:

the knowledge requirements of this unit

the skill requirements of this unit

application of Employability Skills as they relate to this unit

workplace information handled in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)

Resources required to carry out assessment

These resources include:

legislation, policy, procedures and protocols relating to information in the public sector

case studies and workplace scenarios to capture the range of situations likely to be encountered when handling information

Where and how to assess evidence

Valid assessment of this unit requires:

a workplace environment, or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when handling information, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine

workplace information handled in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time).

Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:

people with disabilities

people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

women

young people

older people

people in rural and remote locations.

Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this competency may include, but are not limited to, a combination of 2 or more of:

demonstration

observation

portfolios

projects

questioning

scenarios

simulation or role plays

authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training courses

For consistency of assessment

Evidence must be gathered over time in a range of contexts to ensure the person can achieve the unit outcome and apply the competency in different situations or environments

The Range Statement provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. The variables cater for differences between States and Territories and the Commonwealth, and between organisations and workplaces. They allow for different work requirements, work practices and knowledge. The Range Statement also provides a focus for assessment. It relates to the unit as a whole. Text in bold italics in the Performance Criteria is explained here.

Information may include:

basic numerical and statistical data

legislative, organisation and policy requirements

client data

registries and file records

library materials

financial records

mail

Storage of information may include:

manual and computer files

databases

systems which are internal and external to the immediate organisation

printed material

photographic material

microfiche

Legislation, policy and procedures may include:

Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, standards and guidelines especially relating to privacy, confidentiality, freedom of information, security, fraud control, copyright, intellectual property

government policy

public sector code of ethics

national standards

Australian standards such as records management, knowledge management, risk management

the organisation's policies and practices

organisational code of conduct