Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 7:42 AM AWST

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Apply introductory programming techniques

Apply introductory programming techniques

Unit of competency
National Code
ICAPRG301A
State Code
D7994
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
18/07/2011
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
29/09/2011
Field of Education
020103 - Programming
Original Release Date
29/09/2011
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to undertake introductory programming tasks in the development of a game or application.This unit addresses the knowledge, processes and techniques necessary to develop skills to create simple applications or games.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Apply language syntax and layout
  • 1.1 Apply basic language syntax rules
  • 1.2 Use language data types, operators and expressions to create clear and concise code
  • 1.3 Apply variables and variable scope
  • 1.4 Use library functions in a program
  • 1.5 Use commenting to create clear meaning to code
2. Apply control structures
  • 2.1 Apply language syntax for sequence, selection and iteration constructs
  • 2.2 Use logical operators to create expressions for use in selection and iteration constructs
3. Code using standard algorithms
  • 3.1 Develop algorithms that use the sequence, selection and iteration constructs
  • 3.2 Create and use arrays
  • 3.3 Code standard sequential access algorithms for reading and writing text files, including end-of-file detection loops
  • 3.4 Apply string manipulation
4. Test code
  • 4.1 Use debugging techniques to trace code execution and examine variable contents to detect and correct errors
  • 4.2 Create and conduct simple tests to confirm code meets design specification
  • 4.3 Document the tests performed and results achieved
5. Create an application or game
  • 5.1 Design an algorithm in response to basic program specifications
  • 5.2 Develop the application or game to meet the program specification
  • 5.3 Test and confirm that application or game meets the initial specifications
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.

Language may include:
C
C++
Java
VB.
Variable scope may include:
global
local
local to code block.
Library functions may include:
getch()
printf, cout
rand()
SDL_BlitSurface()
SDL_PollEvent().
Logical operators may include:
AND
OR
NOT.
Arrays may include:
one-dimensional arrays:
declare
initialise
loop through array elements
use
2-D arrays.
String manipulation may include:
converting strings to numbers
searching a string for tokens
splitting a string based on tokens
stringing concatenation
sub-strings.
Debugging techniques may include:
printing variable information to screen or log
using debugging tools provided by the integrated development environment (IDE).
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 ability to:
apply programming language syntax, sequence, selection and iteration control structures to the development of an application or game
produce an application or game that is designed and built from a provided program specification
confirm that the created application or game meets the original program specifications and obtain user sign-off for completed program.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure access to:
requirement documents
site documents
software development tools currently used in industry, such as compiler and IDE
appropriate learning and assessment support when required
modified equipment for people with special needs.
Method of assessment
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
direct observation of candidate programming and debugging code
verbal or written questioning to assess candidate’s knowledge of language syntax and programming constructs
review of programs to assess candidate’s knowledge of language syntax and programming constructs
review of an application or game developed by candidate to meet a specification.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate.
Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.
Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support.
In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge.
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
AUV54 ICTPRG301 Apply introductory programming techniques Unit of competency