Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 7:45 AM AWST

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Collect statistical data

Collect statistical data

Unit of competency
National Code
PSPGOV521A
State Code
C8051
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
07/07/2014
Field of Education
010103 - Statistics
Original Release Date
07/07/2014
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit covers the process of developing a data collection plan and then collecting new data. It includes preparing for data collection, defining data requirements, preparing data collection tools for direct collection, conducting data collection using direct collection, conducting data collection from existing source/s and collating and organising information/data.In practice, collecting statistical data may overlap with other generalist or specialist public sector work activities such as acting ethically, complying with legislation, providing client service, working safely, managing a project, undertaking 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 collectionPSPGOV522A Process statistical dataPSPGOV523A Interrogate and analyse statistical dataPSPGOV524A Interpret data and related statisticsNo licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for data collection
  • 1.1 The project/survey question is studied and where necessary clarified.
  • 1.2 Expected data outputs are defined in accordance with the project scope.
  • 1.3 Proposed technology is familiarised and customised where necessary.
  • 1.4 The population for the source of data is confirmed.
  • 1.5 The survey design (if necessary) is assessed for suitability.
2. Define data requirements
  • 2.1 The accuracy requirements (precision) of the data to be collected are determined.
  • 2.2 The requirements of proposed information management system with regard to storage and processing of data are defined.
  • 2.3 Information requirements are defined and communicated to all staff involved in data collection.
  • 2.4 Data sources are identified and assessed for accessibility and reliability
  • 2.5 The type and extent of data required is defined.
  • 2.6 Classification standards are applied to the proposed data.
3. Prepare data collection tools for direct collection
  • 3.1 Data collection methods and techniques are clearly defined relative to data requirements.
  • 3.2 The optimum method for gathering the proposed data is identified after research of alternatives has occurred.
  • 3.3 The survey vehicle/questionnaire is designed in conjunction with a suitably qualified person.
  • 3.4 The survey vehicle is tested and evaluated.
4. Conduct data collection using direct collection
  • 4.1 The proposed sampling frame is identified and/or constructed.
  • 4.2 A sample is selected and a pilot study implemented.
  • 4.3 Re-evaluation of the proposed survey design is undertaken based on the results of the pilot study.
  • 4.4 The main survey is conducted according to accepted professional and/or organisational standards.
  • 4.5 Opportunities are taken to establish and maintain contacts with those who may provide useful information, with due consideration of respondent burden.
5. Conduct data collection from existing source/s
  • 5.1 Data for the project is sourced.
  • 5.2 A range of statistics necessary for the project is identified in conjunction with a suitably qualified person.
  • 5.3 Sources of information are regularly reviewed for usefulness, reliability and cost.
  • 5.4 Channels and sources of information are used effectively in accordance with organisational standards.
6. Collate and organise information/data
  • 6.1 Statistics are identified to support the project question.
  • 6.2 Data is researched and/or collated from sources in accordance with legislation, policy and guidelines.
  • 6.3 Data is collated electronically.
  • 6.4 The accuracy and appropriateness of data are evaluated.
  • 6.5 Data is recorded in the desired format in accordance with professional, organisational and project requirements.
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.
Expected data outputs may include:
variable names
attributes
Data sources may include:
Australian Bureau of Statistics data
government agency sources
Classification standards may include:
national and international definitions for collating and coding information
Survey vehicle may include:
opinion polls
mail-out questionnaires
computer-aided telephone interviewing (CATI)
face-to-face interviews
Sampling methods may include:
simple random sampling
systematic sampling
multi stage sampling
Legislation, policy and guidelines may include:
State/Territory and Commonwealth legislation and regulations such as:
public sector management acts
financial management acts
privacy legislation
equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation
occupational health and safety legislation
ethics and accountability standards
public sector standards
risk management standards
fraud control standards
government security standards
knowledge management standards
organisational policy, procedures and protocols
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
PSPGOV522A Process statistical data
PSPGOV523A Interrogate and analyse statistical data
PSPGOV524A Interpret data and related statistics
PSPLEGN501B Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector
PSPPM502B Manage complex projects
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
collection of statistical data 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 the collection of statistical data
case studies and workplace scenarios to capture the range of situations likely to be encountered when collecting statistical data
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 collecting statistical data, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine
collection of statistical data in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time) where contexts may include data collection via both primary and secondary sources.
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
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 apply the competency in different situations or environments
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
AWV39 PSPGEN062 Collect statistical data Unit of competency