Modification History
Release |
TP Version |
Comments |
3 |
PSP12V1 |
Unit descriptor edited. |
2 |
PSP04V4.2. |
Layout adjusted. No changes to content. |
1 |
PSP04V4.1 |
Primary release. |
Unit Descriptor
This unit covers the conduct of scientific or technological research at an experienced level where independent judgment is used to determine the means of achieving objectives within generally directed programs. It includes identifying the research issue and research methodology, organising and carrying out the research and communicating the results.
In practice, organising and undertaking scientific/technological research overlaps with other generalist or specialist work activities such as applying government processes, acting ethically, using resources, gathering and analysing information, working safely.
No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.
Application of the Unit
Not applicable.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Not applicable.
Pre-Requisites
Not applicable.
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements are the essential outcomes of the unit of competency. |
Together, performance criteria specify the requirements for competent performance. Text in bold italics is explained in the Range Statement following. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1 . Identify research issue |
1.1 Industry analysis and consultation are used to identify likely research issues in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 1.2 Issue to be researched that is relevant to the industry and to the organisation's objectives is identified. 1.3 Issues relating to intellectual property are identified and handled in accordance with organisational requirements. 1.4 Current and published information relevant to the research issue is identified and analysed. |
2 . Identify research methodology |
2.1 Objectives are established in consultation with other researcher/s in accordance with organisational policy and resource requirements. 2.2 A range of research method/s and analytical techniques is considered and the methodology and techniques are chosen that best enable objectives to be met. 2.3 Hypothesis is determined and is plausible, relevant and of benefit. 2.4 Risk management strategies, activities and tasks are determined in accordance with the requirements of the research methodology. 2.5 Hypothesis and methodology are recorded in accordance with organisational requirements. |
3 . Organise and carry out research |
3.1 Resources to conduct the research are acquired in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 3.2 Tasks are scheduled and carried out in accordance with research methodology. 3.3 Research is monitored, data is collected and analysed and contingencies are dealt with in accordance with research requirements. 3.4 Research results are documented and report/s are prepared within specified timeframes in accordance with organisational requirements. 3.5 Reports are written clearly and concisely in styles suited to scientific and/or lay audiences in accordance with organisational requirements. |
4 . Communicate research results |
4.1 Research results are communicated to the organisation, to the scientific community and/or the industry via publications and presentations in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 4.2 Intellectual property is protected in accordance with organisational requirements. |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Skill requirements Look for evidence that confirms skills in:
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Knowledge requirements Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:
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Evidence Guide
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. |
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Units to be assessed together |
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Overview of evidence requirements |
In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:
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Resources required to carry out assessment |
These resources include:
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Where and how to assess evidence |
Valid assessment of this unit requires:
Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:
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:
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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 |
Range Statement
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. |
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Current information may include: |
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Research methods may include: |
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Analytical techniques may include: |
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Resources may include: |
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Acquisition of resources may include: |
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Documented may include: |
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Communication of results may include: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Not applicable.
Competency field
Government Science & Technology.