Google Links

Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Use a map
  2. Use a compass
  3. Plan a route in unmodified landscapes
  4. Navigate in unmodified landscapes

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Required Skills

problem solving

maintenance of a compass bearing in poor visibility andor

extreme conditions

observation of surroundings

decision making

Required Knowledge

cartographic symbols and legends

gridmagnetic conversion

map and chart types

methods for determining current location

route planning techniques and calculations

factors affecting navigation techniques in extreme environmental conditions

map types and sources of error

use of a compass and factors that affect their accuracy

route planning and issues that should be considered in extreme environmental conditions

estimation of travelling times in unmodified landscape andor difficult terrainconditions

techniques for estimating distance travelled in poor visibility

backbearings and resections

techniques to navigate around obstacles

Evidence Required

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to

plot a navigation route accurately and within accepted tolerances when following a route

maintain positional awareness

react effectively to changes in the operating environment that require replanning

navigate both by day and night

navigate to a destination within standard tolerances of accuracy

to be able to navigate without the use of electronic navigation aids such as GPS

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated navigating a route on a minimum of three occasions with at least two navigations being conducted at night The route should contain a number of legs requiring one or more changes in direction

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency must be assessed in an area that has an unmodified landscape

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to

equipment used in operational navigation such as maps compass watch and data sheets

Suitable area for navigation unmodified landscape


Range Statement

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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Symbols and information may include:

grid lines and numbers

contour lines

magnetic variation

scale

map legend

topographic features

Map may include:

topographic

aerial photographs

local authority maps

navigational charts

cadastral maps

orthophoto maps

satellite imagery

Navigation data sheet may include:

grid reference points

grid and magnetic bearings

distances

estimated travelling times

height gain/loss

gradient

identifiable features

escape routes

Sources of information may include:

guide books

local inhabitants

peers

aerial information

intelligence reports

Hazards and obstacles may include:

river crossings and rising water levels

open water crossings

cliff lines

wet and slippery rocks

extreme heat

extreme cold

fog and mist

snow

severe storms/squalls

strong winds

heavy rain

currents

man-made features

no-go zones

Distance estimations may include:

pacing

time

odometer (if in vehicle)

Navigation techniques may include:

use of compass

linear features

point features

attack points

aiming off

collecting features

spiral search

sweep search

backbearings and resections

use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

use of stars and sun

use of natural feature