Unit of competency details

Release 

TP Version 

Comments 

1

DEF12 V2

Primary release.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency.

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised  text is used, further information is detailed in the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Use a map 

1.1 Select the type of map(s) suitable for the activity.

1.2 Identify possible sources of error and inaccuracies on the map.

1.3 Identify symbols and information  contained on the map  that may be used in navigation.

1.4 Identify the way in which relevant symbols and information on the map can be used in navigation. 

2. Use a compass 

2.1 Identify the essential features of a compass.

2.2 Demonstrate the manner in which a compass is used to maintain a designated course.

2.3 Demonstrate how compass use reflects understanding of the factors that affect accuracy.

3. Plan a route in unmodified landscapes 

3.1 Apply symbols and information contained on the map to plan an efficient route/course suitable to navigation and activity-specific abilities

3.2 Obtain additional information to assist in the preparation of a navigation data sheet  from the map and from other suitable sources of information. 

3.3 Identify hazards and obstacles  to the route.

3.4 Prepare a navigation data sheet/route card.

3.5 Identify emergency or contingency routes.

4. Navigate in unmodified landscapes 

4.1 Maintain orientation of map to surroundings.

4.2 Identify possible sources of navigation error in specific locations.

4.3 Demonstrate combined use of map, compass and other techniques whilst following a route in unmodified landscapes.

4.4 Demonstrate techniques for distance estimations  of travel in the absence of identifying features.

4.5 Maintain the designated course whilst bypassing hazards and obstacles.

4.6 Demonstrate maintenance of a course in unmodified landscapes.

4.7 Fix position accurately and regularly using a combination of appropriate navigation techniques. 

4.8 Demonstrate an efficient route choice for the surroundings and conditions.

4.9 Demonstrate suitable combinations of navigation techniques to fix position and identify unknown features when lost.

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

Required Skills 

• problem solving
• maintenance of a compass bearing in poor visibility and/or
• extreme conditions
• observation of surroundings
• decision making

Required Knowledge 

• cartographic symbols and legends
• grid/magnetic conversion
• map and chart types
• methods for determining current location
• route planning techniques and calculations
• factors affecting navigation techniques in extreme environmental conditions
• map types and sources of error
• use of a compass and factors that affect their accuracy
• route planning and issues that should be considered in extreme environmental conditions
• estimation of travelling times in unmodified landscape and/or difficult terrain/conditions
• techniques for estimating distance travelled in poor visibility
• backbearings and resections
• techniques to navigate around obstacles

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

• Assessment must confirm the ability to:
• plot a navigation route accurately and within accepted tolerances when following a route
• maintain positional awareness
• react effectively to changes in the operating environment that require re-planning
• navigate both by day and night
• navigate to a destination within standard tolerances of accuracy
• to be able to navigate without the use of electronic navigation aids; such as GPS

Consistency in performance 

Competency should be demonstrated navigating a route on a minimum of three occasions; with at least two navigations being conducted at night. The route should contain a number of legs requiring one or more changes in direction.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Competency must be assessed in an area that has an unmodified landscape

Specific resources for assessment 

Access is required to:

• equipment used in operational navigation (such as maps, compass, watch and data sheets)
• Suitable area for navigation (unmodified landscape)

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.

Symbols and information  may include:

• grid lines and numbers
• contour lines
• magnetic variation
• scale
• map legend
• topographic features

Map  may include:

• topographic
• aerial photographs
• local authority maps
• navigational charts
• cadastral maps
• orthophoto maps
• satellite imagery

Navigation data sheet  may include:

• grid reference points
• grid and magnetic bearings
• distances
• estimated travelling times
• height gain/loss
• gradient
• identifiable features
• escape routes

Sources of information  may include:

• guide books
• local inhabitants
• peers
• aerial information
• intelligence reports

Hazards and obstacles  may include:

• river crossings and rising water levels
• open water crossings
• cliff lines
• wet and slippery rocks
• extreme heat
• extreme cold
• fog and mist
• snow
• severe storms/squalls
• strong winds
• heavy rain
• currents
• man-made features
• no-go zones

Distance estimations  may include:

• pacing
• time
• odometer (if in vehicle)

Navigation techniques  may include:

• use of compass
• linear features
• point features
• attack points
• aiming off
• collecting features
• spiral search
• sweep search
• backbearings and resections
• use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
• use of stars and sun
• use of natural feature