Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:56 AM AWST

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Interpret data and related statistics

Interpret data and related statistics

Unit of competency
National Code
PSPGOV524A
State Code
C8054
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
3.00
Current Release Date
01/11/2012
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/11/2014
Field of Education
010103 - Statistics
Original Release Date
05/11/2014
Nominal Hours
50
Description
This unit covers the interpretation of data and related statistics. It includes interpreting graphs or tables, interpreting data and its summarised highlights, interpreting a range of official statistics in a policy environment, presenting statistical results and guiding others in the interpretation of data.In practice, interpreting data and related statistics may overlap with other generalist or specialist public sector work activities such as acting ethically, complying with legislation, working safely, conducting research and analysis, etc. This is one of 5 units of competency in the Working in Government Competency Field that deal with statistics. Related units are:PSPGOV520A Scope statistical data collectionPSPGOV521A Collect statistical dataPSPGOV522A Process statistical dataPSPGOV523A Interrogate and analyse statistical dataNo licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Interpret a graph or table
  • 1.1 Reports based on the data are written which identify relevant relationships within the data.
  • 1.2 Row and column percentages are calculated from a table.
  • 1.3 A table/graph is interpreted in accordance with data reflected.
2. Interpret data and its summarised highlights
  • 2.1 Data summaries and trends are defined and explained in a manner suited to the audience.
  • 2.2 Survey data is interpreted according to accepted standards.
  • 2.3 Data is interpreted and its highlights are summarised.
  • 2.4 Interpretation is verified with a suitably qualified person.
3. Interpret a range of official statistics in a policy environment
  • 3.1 Data summaries and trends are identified and explained.
  • 3.2 Statistical tests are interpreted and this interpretation explained.
  • 3.3 The sampling method/survey design is critiqued.
  • 3.4 Interpretation of the data is undertaken in such a way as to inform decision making.
  • 3.5 Interpretation is verified with a suitably qualified person.
  • 3.6 The shortcomings of statistical applications in the policy environment are identified.
4. Present statistical results
  • 4.1 Data is presented in tables, charts and maps so that the reader does not misconstrue it.
  • 4.2 Glossaries, technical notes and referencing are included where required.
  • 4.3 Reports that include statistical concepts, tables, charts and maps are prepared and presented in accordance with organisational policy and procedures.
  • 4.4 Findings are presented in a way that is most appropriate for the audience.
  • 4.5 Charts are used appropriately in presentations for the variables being charted and conform to accepted standards.
5. Guide others in the interpretation of data
  • 5.1 Data summaries and trends are clearly defined and communicated to staff involved in the project.
  • 5.2 Report findings are presented in a way that is most appropriate for the audience.
  • 5.3 The assumptions on which the interpretation is based are communicated in accordance with audience needs.
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.
Accepted standards for survey data may include:
showing awareness of data accuracy and reliability
identifying other related issues, such as sample size
Statistical tests include:
equivalence of means and proportions
tests of association and prediction
Data presentation may include:
the use of footnotes, caveats and references
Statistical concepts include:
the results of statistical tests
trends over time
statistical associations
variability
sampling error
Presentation of findings may include:
a mix of text, tables, charts, maps etc
Accepted standards for charts may include:
appropriately labelled
appropriate scale selection
clear formatting
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.
Units to be assessed together
Pre-requisite units that must be achieved prior to this unit:Nil
Co-requisite units that must be assessed with this unit:Nil
Co-assessed units that may be assessed with this unit to increase the efficiency and realism of the assessment process include, but are not limited to:
PSPETHC501B Promote the values and ethos of public service
PSPGOV503B Coordinate resource allocation and usage
PSPGOV504B Undertake research and analysis
PSPGOV520A Scope statistical data collection
PSPGOV521A Collect statistical data
PSPGOV522A Process statistical data
PSPGOV523A Interrogate and analyse statistical data
PSPLEGN501B Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector
Overview of evidence requirements
In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:
the knowledge requirements of this unit
the skill requirements of this unit
application of Employability Skills as they relate to this unit
interpretation of data and related statistics in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)
Resources required to carry out assessment
These resources include:
legislation, policy, procedures and protocols relating to interpretation of statistics
tools/equipment for interpreting and explaining statistics
case studies and workplace scenarios to capture the range of situations likely to be encountered when undertaking statistical interpretation
Where and how to assess evidence
Valid assessment of this unit requires:
a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when interpreting data and related statistics, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine
interpretation of data and related statistics in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time).
Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:
people with disabilities
people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
women
young people
older people
people in rural and remote locations.
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:
case studies
demonstration
portfolios
projects
questioning
scenarios
simulation or role plays
authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training courses
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/or apply the competency in different situations or environments
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
AWV37 PSPGEN065 Interpret data and related statistics Unit of competency