Elements and Performance Criteria

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, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

mouse
keyboard
visual display unit
monitor
printer

laptops
workstations
servers
other devices

database programs
word processors
email programs
internet browsers
system browsers
spreadsheets

Linux 7.0 or above
Windows 2000 or above
Apple OS X or above

hardware and software components that run a computer

An instruction manual or a portion of the manual, integrated into the program

Indicates several properties of the directory. For example, they indicate whether the directory is read-only, whether it needs to be backed up, and whether it is visible or hidden

Windows Explorer
Konqueror

floppy disks
CDs
CD-RW (compact disks-read write)
DVD RW
zip disks
flash drives
solid state hard drives

layout
paper size
paper tray
cartridge type
number of copies
orientation

documents
test pages
web pages
other output

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the following is essential:

Assessment must confirm the ability to use software, navigate around the desktop, use system features to perform tasks, and save results of work.

To demonstrate competency in this unit the person will require access to:

Personal computer
Printer
Mouse and keyboard
Monitor
Basic software

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Using a personal computer is an essential business function and basic core skill in most workplaces. Demonstration of this competency will require:

Knowledge of PC operations in a narrow range of areas
Basic PC practical skills
Performing a sequence of routine tasks after having received clear direction
Receiving and passing on messages and information.
The breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills in this competency would prepare a person to perform a defined range of activities many of which may be routine and predictable.

Assessment must ensure:

Demonstration of knowledge by recall in a narrow range of areas; demonstrating basic practical skills, such as the use of relevant tools and applications; performing a sequence of routine tasks given clear direction; and receiving and passing on messages or information.
Applications may include a variety of employment related skills including preparatory access and participation skills, broad-based induction skills and/or specific workplace skills. They may also include participation in a team or work group.

Method of assessment
The purpose of this unit is to define the standard of performance to be achieved in the workplace. In undertaking training and assessment activities related to this unit, consideration should be given to the implementation of appropriate diversity and accessibility practices in order to accommodate people who may have special needs. Additional guidance on these and related matters is provided in ICA05 Section 1
Competency in this unit should be assessed using summative assessment to ensure consistency of performance in a range of contexts. This unit can be assessed either in the workplace or in a simulated environment. However, simulated activities must closely reflect the workplace to enable full demonstration of competency.
Assessment will usually include observation of real or simulated work processes and procedures and/or performance in a project context as well as questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. The questioning of team members, supervisors, subordinates, peers and clients where appropriate may provide valuable input to the assessment process. The interdependence of units for assessment purposes may vary with the particular project or scenario.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

ICAU1129B Operate a word processing application

An individual demonstrating this competency would be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge by recall in a narrow range of areas
Demonstrate basic practical skills, such as the use of relevant tools
Perform a sequence of routine tasks given clear direction
Receive and pass on messages and information
Maintain knowledge of industry products and services