Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range Statement explains the scope and context of the unit of competency allowing for differences between workplaces. The scope of variables chosen for training and assessment requirements will depend on the particular work situation.

Networks may be informal and include:
Other workers, particularly those in the community services industry
Trainers, teachers and academics
Contacts in policy and funding bodies

Networks may be formal and include:
Local interagency networks
Interest and support groups
Regional, specialist and peak associations
Professional/occupation associations

The purposes of networks and networking may include:
Learning about the role, services and resources of other organisation
Learning about the roles and resources of other workers
Providing advice and information about own service and organisation
Peer support and review
Professional development
Maintaining coordination among organisations and workers
Supporting joint programs or activities
Providing information for policy development
Supporting the interests of young people

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects of assessment, and the essential knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency in this unit. The Evidence Guide is an integral part of the assessment of competency and it should be read carefully in conjunction with the Range Statement, elements and performance criteria.
Critical aspects of evidence:
Participation in both formal and information network
Participate in a network as a member not representing an organisation
Participate in a network as a representative of the workers' own organisation

Essential knowledge and skills:
Oral communication skills including asking questions, listening to information, providing information. Assessors should particularly look for workers engaging in interpersonal exchanges, clarifying meaning and maintaining interaction, for the purposes of establishing, and maintaining relationships; exploring issues; and problem solving. Assessors should also look for the ability to elicit and give factual information and opinions

Resource implications:
Access to appropriate workplace where assessment can be conducted or
Simulation of realistic workplace setting for assessment

Consistency in performance:
Assessment may include observations, questioning and evidence gathered from the workplace environment
Assessment may be conducted on one or more occasions but must include a range of network types relevant to the workplace

Context of assessment:
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions. This may include the use of languages other than English and alternative communications systems.