Unit of competency details

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 Identify the principles and processes of ESD 

1.1 Research  is undertaken to identify the origins of ecologically sustainable development. 

1.2 Research is undertaken to identify developments since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit at international, national, state and local levels.

1.3 Agenda 21 is analysed to identify the underlying principles and processes for ESD.

1.4 Key issues in the principles and processes of ESD are determined.

2 Identify how ESD can be incorporated into the organisation's decision-making processes 

2.1 Research is undertaken on council's existing policies, protocols and decision-making processes and assessed  against the principles and processes contained in Agenda 21, existing state and federal legislation, industry standards and council and community requirements and expectations.

2.2 Research is undertaken to identify any frameworks or best practice approaches developed by other councils or state and federal government agencies.

2.3 Research is undertaken to identify case studies of implementation of ESD by governments and/or councils.

2.4 Research outcomes are analysed for best practice approaches.

2.5 Existing council decisions are categorised according to their strategic, corporate or operational impact.

2.6 Social, economic, environmental and cultural implications of decisions are identified at each level.

3 Develop ESD indicators 

3.1 The community is consulted  to determine their views and values on sustainability and to identify appropriate targets and strategies for sustainable development.

3.2 Suggestions and ideas in relation to ESD are sought from work teams.

3.3 Expert opinion and advice are sought on ways council can apply the principles and processes of ESD to its decision making, especially in relation to the natural and built environment.

3.4 Relevant state and federal agencies are consulted on their policy position in relation to ESD.

3.5 A framework  for measuring and monitoring council commitment to integrated decision making is established.

3.6 Appropriate qualitative and quantitative indicators are developed for social, economic and environmental factors.

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

Required Skills 

• policy development
• planning
• consultation
• collaboration
• negotiation
• presentation
• data collection and analysis
• evaluation
• communication

Required Knowledge 

• relevant legislation from all levels of government that supports the achievement of the objectives and principles of sustainability
• knowledge of best practice approaches
• relevant knowledge of economic, social, environmental and cultural issues
• ESD principles
• relevant environmental systems and procedures
• council policies and protocols
• council structures and services
• community needs and expectations

Overview of assessment requirements 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered 

The demonstrated ability to:

• research and analyse information on the application of ESD principles and processes
• identify how ESD can be incorporated into council's decision-making processes
• develop appropriate ESD indicators for social, economic, environmental and cultural factors

Context of assessment 

Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria, with particular attention to the critical aspects of evidence and the knowledge and skills elaborated in the Evidence Guide, and within the scope of the Range Statement.

Assessment must take account of the endorsed Assessment Guidelines in the Local Government Training Package.

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken in an actual workplace or simulated environment.

Assessment should reinforce the integration of the key competencies for the particular AQF level. Refer to the key competency levels at the end of this unit.

Relationship to other units (prerequisite or co-requisite units )

To enable holistic assessment this unit may be assessed with other units that form part of the job role.

Method of assessment 

The following assessment methods are suggested:

• observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies
• written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding
• completion of workplace documentation
• third-party reports from experienced practitioners
• completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance 

Evidence should be collected over a set period of time that is sufficient to include dealings with an appropriate range and variety of situations.

Resource implications 

The learner and trainer should have access to appropriate documentation and resources normally used in the workplace.

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.

Research  may include:

• Internet information
• a range of reports and other documents, including state of environment reports
• new technology developments related to sustainability
• results of monitoring and research

Ecologically sustainable development  may include:

• economic factors
• social factors
• environmental factors
• cultural factors

Assessed  may include:

• indicators
• audits
• surveys

Consultation  may include:

• personal contact
• surveys
• public meetings
• stakeholder meetings or group discussions
• submissions
• professional advice

Framework  may include:

• mechanisms for cooperation and collaboration between stakeholders
• processes for participation and community input
• indicators for monitoring and evaluating the effects of development against a range of economic, social, environmental and cultural criteria agreed by the local community