Unit of competency details

Elements and Performance Criteria 

Element 

Performance Criteria 

1

Clarify and confirm purpose of research

1.1

Clarify and confirm the areas and elements to be researched and agree on the deadlines for reporting

1.2

Clarify the research brief and confirm in sufficient detail with relevant personnel to allow appropriate research to continue

1.3

Use appropriate research and data gathering techniques and procedures so that materials and sources of information are identified within time constraints

1.4

Check that the materials identified are in an appropriate format for the purpose and technical capabilities required

1.5

Discuss research ideas fully and constructively with relevant personnel, and identify any implications for the research brief

1.6

Reach agreement with the relevant personnel on the format, style and structure of materials best for the purpose

1.7

Identify potential difficulties in meeting the brief and draw to the attention of relevant personnel promptly

2

Identify and access sources of information

2.1

Identify appropriate sources of information and potential contributors relevant to the research brief

2.2

Establish contact with a sufficiently wide and varied range of sources to optimise information gathering

2.3

When specialist knowledge is required, identify potential sources of information and advice

2.4

Agree on the use of specialist sources and make arrangements for appropriate contracts to be issued (where required)

2.5

Approach relevant sources promptly and in a way most likely to elicit the required information

2.6

Maintain accurate and comprehensive records and details of information sources

2.7

Adjust contact information when requirements of the research brief change and keep records up to date

2.8

Establish and maintain a file of all relevant documentation and correspondence in a format which allows ease of access and reporting

3

Analyse research findings

3.1

Analyse and interpret data

3.2

Identify key issues for further research or for discussion with appropriate personnel

3.3

Develop conclusions and recommendations (if required)

4

Provide information in appropriate format

4.1

Organise information in logical and clear structure and in a format appropriate for the purpose and present information to appropriate personnel

4.2

Meet deadlines for provision of materials as specified by the brief

4.3

Ensure accuracy and currency of information supplied

Underpinning knowledge and skills 

Assessment must include evidence of the following knowledge and skills in:

using a range of sources of materials and information

using a variety of methods of collecting information and accessing materials

the ability to select the best way to present the material

skills in analysing, summarising and organising material

Linkages to other units 

This unit underpins effective performance in a range of cultural industry units. It is recommended that this unit is delivered/assessed in conjunction with other units which have a design and/or project base.

Critical aspects of evidence 

The following evidence is critical to the judgement of competence in this unit:

ability to clarify the research brief

ability to access, evaluate the information, select appropriate information and present it in an appropriate format

Method and context of assessment 

Assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a mix of both of these. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a closely simulated workplace environment.

Assessment may incorporate a range of methods to assess performance and the application of essential underpinning knowledge, and might include:

case studies

work samples or simulated workplace activities

third party reports and authenticated prior achievements

portfolios of evidence

Resource requirements 

Assessment requires access to a range of relevant and current industry information materials listed in the range of variables statement. Access to a computer and the internet is also required.

Workplace based assessment should utilise the range of materials and topic areas current and relevant to that workplace environment.

Key competencies

Level

Collecting, organising and analysing information

3

Communicating ideas and information

3

Planning and organising activities

3

Working with others and in teams

2

Solving problems

3

Using mathematical ideas and techniques

2

Using technology

3

Variable

Scope

Sources of information may include:

media (film, television, radio, newspapers, multimedia and others)

reference books

libraries (text, film, video, sound, graphic )

professional organisations

archives

media archives

museums, galleries

government departments

community organisations

industry associations and organisations

industry journals

technical publications, manuals

computer data, including internet

organisational policies, procedures and journals

personal observations and experience

discussions with current industry practitioners

discussions with industry personnel, manufacturers, and technical and sales personnel

Factors in organising material:

purpose

clear

easy to understand and use

concise

logical

Appropriate personnel to consult may include:

multimedia professionals

film/TV professionals

industry organisations

educators

directors

designers

information professionals (libraries/museums)

Information Technology personnel

content experts

Specified equipment may include:

application software

computers