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. Add any 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.


Specialist communication skills refers to:
Means by which an emotionally safe and empathic environment is created
Means for communicating with people with disabilities or where English is not the first language
Methods of communicating with different age, religious, gender and sexual identity groups
Non-judgemental communication techniques
Using strategies that empower client to seek and present information
Cultural, sub-cultural awareness/sensitivity
Demonstrating empathy
Using appropriate body language
Reflecting, summarising and paraphrasing
Asking appropriately worded and structured questions
Using conflict management skills if appropriate
If needed, use of a qualified interpreter
Recognition of client/worker power differences
Maintaining confidentiality
Active listening


Documented factual information could include:
Case documentation
Information from professionals
Information from service providers
Previous file records
Evidence that is permissible within the court system

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this unit of competency:
The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills
Evidence of competency in this unit will need to be assessed over a period of time in order to gather evidence of consistent performance
This will include contexts applicable to the work environment, such as actual or simulated workplace situations involving a combination of direct, indirect and supplementary forms of evidence
Evidence will be determined by selection from the Range Statement, justified in terms of work requirements, work roles and responsibilities and occupational specialisations


Access and equity considerations:
All workers in community services should be aware of access, equity and human rights issues in relation to their own area of work
All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
In recognition of particular issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities


Context of and specific resources for assessment:
This unit can be assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other community services units of competency is encouraged
Where assessment is conducted within the workplace there are no resource implications above those normally available in the workplace
Where assessment is conducted in a simulated or non-workplace environment then access to the necessary equipment and research resources should be provided
Access to simulated exercises, case studies related to mediation service delivery issues is also required if non-workplace assessment paths are utilised


Method of assessment:
Demonstration of competency within the working environment in preparing for the mediation process
Where there is not an opportunity to cover all relevant aspects in the work environment, the remainder should be assessed through realistic simulations, projects, previous relevant experience or oral questioning on 'what if?' Scenarios
Observation of processes and procedures, oral and/or written questions on Essential knowledge and skills and consideration of required attitudes
Where performance is not directly observed and/or is required to be demonstrated over a period of time and/or in a number of locations, any evidence should be authenticated by colleagues, supervisors, clients or other appropriate persons
Review of any documentation produced by the candidate related to the preparation for mediation


Related units:
This unit should be assessed after or in conjunction with related unit:
CHCCOM403A Use targeted communication skills to build relationships