Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

PRSIS306A Mapping and Delivery Guide
Gather information by factual investigation

Version 1.0
Issue Date: March 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency PRSIS306A - Gather information by factual investigation
Description This competency standard covers the skills and knowledge required to gather information both orally or in written or electronic form for the carriage of investigation tasks. It requires the ability to plan and carry out information gathering activities, organise and assess the quality of gathered information, and present clearly supported recommendations for review and interpretation. This work would be carried out under limited supervision within organisational guidelines.Functional Area: Core, Investigative ServicesThis competency standard covers the skills and knowledge required to gather information both orally or in written or electronic form for the carriage of investigation tasks. It requires the ability to plan and carry out information gathering activities, organise and assess the quality of gathered information, and present clearly supported recommendations for review and interpretation. This work would be carried out under limited supervision within organisational guidelines.Functional Area: Core, Investigative Services
Employability Skills Not applicable.
Learning Outcomes and Application Not applicable.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.
Prerequisites/co-requisites Not applicable.
Competency Field
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities
Slides
PPT
Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Prepare for investigative activities
  • Assignment instructions and relevant information is obtained to review client and organisational requirements
  • Resource and equipment requirements are estimated based on assignment instructions and confirmed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures
  • Requirements for specialist equipment and technical specialists are identified and confirmed with appropriate person(s)
  • Information sources and systems are reliable and used in accordance with legislative and organisational guidelines
  • Personal conduct, manner and presentation is maintained in accordance with code of conduct and organisational requirements
  • A plan detailing key activities and their sequence is developed taking into consideration all known factors, client instructions and legal requirements
       
Element: Gather information
  • Methods of collecting information are reliable and make efficient use of resources in accordance with organisational requirements
  • Available facts and evidence is obtained from information sources, organised and secured in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements
  • Interviews / meetings are planned, managed and conducted to gather maximum amount of information relevant to the assignment
  • Interpersonal techniques are appropriate to assignment requirements and reflect sensitivity to individual social and cultural differences
  • Comprehensive statements are taken in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures and contain details relevant to the assignment
  • Business equipment is used in accordance with manufacturer's specifications to access, record and organise information
  • Physical evidence is collected, where possible to support statements of fact
       
Element: Report information
  • Information is obtained within the specified time, budget and quality constraints in accordance with assignment and organisational requirements
  • Information is evaluated in terms of validity, reliability and relevance and reviewed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures
  • Recommendations and issues are presented in the required format, style and structure that is suitable for review and interpretation in accordance with organisational requirements
  • Client satisfaction with service delivery is reviewed using verifiable data and appropriate feedback techniques in accordance with organisational policy and procedures
  • Relevant workplace documentation is completed and processed in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures
  • Information is safely and securely maintained and stored in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

The Evidence Guide identifies the requirements to be demonstrated to confirm competence for this unit. Assessment must confirm sufficient ability to use appropriate skills and knowledge to gather information by factual investigation. Assessment of performance should be over a period of time covering all categories within the Range of Variables statements that are applicable in the learning environment.

What critical aspects are required for evidence of competency?

Accurately plan for gathering relevant information and effectively use correct equipment and resources to support specific information gathering activity.

Reliable sources and methods are used to gather information that is accurate and relevant to the assignment.

Conduct interviews/meetings using appropriate interpersonal techniques and take accurate and complete contemporaneous notes and statements.

Gathered information is evaluated and recommendations and issues are presented in a format suitable for review and interpretation within designated timeframes.

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

organisational requirements and legal and ethical obligations with regard to the gathering and distribution of information

investigative techniques

sources of information and information gathering techniques

continuity of evidence

information evaluation processes for establishing validity and reliability of gathered information

operational principles of a range of security and investigative equipment

effective interpersonal techniques

information management systems and methods

report writing and data presentation techniques

procedures for the security and storage of gathered information.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, some specific skills are required. These include the ability to:

relate to people from different social and cultural backgrounds and varying physical and mental abilities

prioritise work tasks and complete activities within designated timeframes

identify and access relevant information from reliable sources

source additional information

collect and evaluate diverse pieces of information

verify information for accuracy and relevance

use information technology appropriate to the task

prepare and present reports in required formats

disseminate information with due regard to confidentiality issues

solve problems of contradictory, ambiguous or inconsistent information

use information storage and retrieval systems

apply safe workplace practices.

What resources may be required for assessment?

Access to a suitable venue and equipment.

Access to plain English version of relevant statutes and procedures.

Assignment instructions, work plans and schedules, policy documents and duty statements.

Assessment instruments, including personal planner and assessment record book.

Access to a registered provider of assessment services.

What is required to achieve consistency of performance?

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit, the competency should be demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor. The competency is to be demonstrated in a range of situations, which may include involvement in related activities normally experienced in the workplace.

Evidence of underpinning knowledge understanding of processes and principles can be gained through thorough questioning and by observation of previous work.

Assessment against this unit may involve the following:

Continuous assessment in a setting that simulates the conditions of performance described in the elements, performance criteria and range of variables statement that make up the unit.

Continuous assessment in the workplace, taking into account the range of variables affecting performance.

Self-assessment on the same terms as those described above.

Simulated assessment or critical incident assessment, provided that the critical incident involves assessment against performance criteria and an evaluation of underpinning knowledge and skill required to achieve the required performance outcomes.

Key competency levels

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added.

Information below highlights how these processes are applied in this competency standard.

1 - perform the process

2 - perform and administer the process

3 - perform, administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied? (2)

Effective interpersonal techniques may be used in interviews/meetings to elicit accurate information.

How can information be collected, analysed and organised? (2)

Available facts and evidence may be obtained from verifiable sources using reliable methods of collecting information and collated for review and evaluation.

How are activities planned and organised? (2)

A plan may be developed detailing key activities and their sequence to achieve assignment requirements in a timely manner.

How can team work be applied? (2)

Draft documentation may be disseminated to relevant personnel for review and any constructive feedback or comments integrated into final documentation.

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied? (2)

Mathematical techniques may be used to measure, prioritise and schedule tasks.

How can problem solving skills be applied? (2)

Changing circumstances and other factors affecting the achievement of assignment instructions within designated timeframes may be promptly identified and negotiated with relevant personnel.

How can the use of technology be applied? (1)

Technology may be used to research, record, organise and communicate information.

The Evidence Guide identifies the requirements to be demonstrated to confirm competence for this unit. Assessment must confirm sufficient ability to use appropriate skills and knowledge to gather information by factual investigation. Assessment of performance should be over a period of time covering all categories within the Range of Variables statements that are applicable in the learning environment.

What critical aspects are required for evidence of competency?

Accurately plan for gathering relevant information and effectively use correct equipment and resources to support specific information gathering activity.

Reliable sources and methods are used to gather information that is accurate and relevant to the assignment.

Conduct interviews/meetings using appropriate interpersonal techniques and take accurate and complete contemporaneous notes and statements.

Gathered information is evaluated and recommendations and issues are presented in a format suitable for review and interpretation within designated timeframes.

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

organisational requirements and legal and ethical obligations with regard to the gathering and distribution of information

investigative techniques

sources of information and information gathering techniques

continuity of evidence

information evaluation processes for establishing validity and reliability of gathered information

operational principles of a range of security and investigative equipment

effective interpersonal techniques

information management systems and methods

report writing and data presentation techniques

procedures for the security and storage of gathered information.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, some specific skills are required. These include the ability to:

relate to people from different social and cultural backgrounds and varying physical and mental abilities

prioritise work tasks and complete activities within designated timeframes

identify and access relevant information from reliable sources

source additional information

collect and evaluate diverse pieces of information

verify information for accuracy and relevance

use information technology appropriate to the task

prepare and present reports in required formats

disseminate information with due regard to confidentiality issues

solve problems of contradictory, ambiguous or inconsistent information

use information storage and retrieval systems

apply safe workplace practices.

What resources may be required for assessment?

Access to a suitable venue and equipment.

Access to plain English version of relevant statutes and procedures.

Assignment instructions, work plans and schedules, policy documents and duty statements.

Assessment instruments, including personal planner and assessment record book.

Access to a registered provider of assessment services.

What is required to achieve consistency of performance?

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit, the competency should be demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor. The competency is to be demonstrated in a range of situations, which may include involvement in related activities normally experienced in the workplace.

Evidence of underpinning knowledge understanding of processes and principles can be gained through thorough questioning and by observation of previous work.

Assessment against this unit may involve the following:

Continuous assessment in a setting that simulates the conditions of performance described in the elements, performance criteria and range of variables statement that make up the unit.

Continuous assessment in the workplace, taking into account the range of variables affecting performance.

Self-assessment on the same terms as those described above.

Simulated assessment or critical incident assessment, provided that the critical incident involves assessment against performance criteria and an evaluation of underpinning knowledge and skill required to achieve the required performance outcomes.

Key competency levels

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added.

Information below highlights how these processes are applied in this competency standard.

1 - perform the process

2 - perform and administer the process

3 - perform, administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied? (2)

Effective interpersonal techniques may be used in interviews/meetings to elicit accurate information.

How can information be collected, analysed and organised? (2)

Available facts and evidence may be obtained from verifiable sources using reliable methods of collecting information and collated for review and evaluation.

How are activities planned and organised? (2)

A plan may be developed detailing key activities and their sequence to achieve assignment requirements in a timely manner.

How can team work be applied? (2)

Draft documentation may be disseminated to relevant personnel for review and any constructive feedback or comments integrated into final documentation.

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied? (2)

Mathematical techniques may be used to measure, prioritise and schedule tasks.

How can problem solving skills be applied? (2)

Changing circumstances and other factors affecting the achievement of assignment instructions within designated timeframes may be promptly identified and negotiated with relevant personnel.

How can the use of technology be applied? (1)

Technology may be used to research, record, organise and communicate information.


Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)


Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Not applicable.

The Range of Variables provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. It allows for different work practices and work and knowledge requirements as well as for differences between organisations and workplaces. The following variables may be present for this particular unit:

Assignment instructions may include:

instructions from supervisor/management

assignment objectives and timeframes

work tasks and procedures

resource and equipment requirements

reporting and documentation requirements.

Relevant information may include:

summary of case history

client instructions

terms of reference

cost schedule

reporting details

acceptable modes of enquiry

time limit for inquiry

operator manuals

manufacturer's specifications.

Organisational requirements may relate to:

legal and organisational policy and procedures including personnel practices and guidelines

organisational goals, objectives, plans, systems and processes

employer and employee rights and responsibilities

business and performance plans

policies and procedures relating to own role, responsibility and delegation

quality and continuous improvement processes and standards

client service standards

defined resource parameters

Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and programs

emergency and evacuation procedures

duty of care, code of conduct, code of ethics

access and equity policy, principles and practice

records and information systems and processes

communication channels and reporting procedures.

Resources and equipment may include:

35mm and video cameras

compass

tape measures

scales

writing instruments

voice recorder, transcript recorder

scanners (audio, document, computer)

lap-top computer

vehicle, air travel

mobile phones, pagers

personnel.

Appropriate persons may include:

security personnel

supervisors, management

clients

manufacturer's

security consultants

other professional or technical staff.

Specialist equipment may include:

audio/video

electronic counter surveillance equipment

infra-red

night vision goggles.

Technical specialists may include:

photographers

accountants

solicitors, lawyers

forensic experts

engineers

specialist investigators

information technology experts

undercover operatives.

Information sources may include:

colleagues, supervisor, management

records, reports, case notes

interviews, meetings

photographs

newspapers and other print media

specialists

internet and other electronic sources

library

industry networks

government departments/agencies

professional bodies

workshops, conferences, seminars.

Information systems may depend on:

importance of information

sensitivity of information

reliability of information

source or origin of information

where information is to be disseminated.

Client instructions may relate to:

confidentiality of information

handling and transmission requirements.

Business equipment may include:

computers and computer applications

modems

personal schedulers

e-mail

internet/extranet/intranet

facsimile machines

printers

photocopiers

scanners.

Available facts may include:

accident reports

personal records

personnel records

medical reports

machinery reports

employer accident records

claims

travel documents

policies.

Applicable legislation, codes and national standards may include:

relevant Commonwealth/State/Territory legislation which affect organisational operation

Australian Standards, quality assurance and certification requirements

relevant industry Codes of Practice

privacy requirements

freedom of information

trade practices

award and enterprise agreements

industrial relations, relevant industrial instruments

Occupational Health and Safety

environment and waste management

equal employment opportunity

anti-discrimination and diversity.

Evidence may be:

direct

circumstantial

physical

opinion

documentary

hearsay.

Interpersonal techniques may include:

verbal or non-verbal language

two-way interaction

constructive feedback

active listening

questioning to clarify and confirm understanding

interpreting non-verbal and verbal messages

observation techniques

use of positive, confident and co-operative language

control of tone of voice and body language

use of language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

use of clear presentations of options and consequences

demonstrating flexibility and willingness to compromise.

Social and cultural differences may be expressed in:

language (verbal, non-verbal, English)

traditional practices and observations

beliefs, values, practices

food, diet

dress

religious and spiritual observances

social conventions

cultural stereotypes

conventions of gender/sexuality.

Format requirements may relate to:

style

sequence of coverage

length

use of appendices

enclosures

use of abbreviations

common industry terminology.

Documentation may include:

written reports

oral briefings

activity reports

running sheets

task allocation sheets

radio/telephone records.

The Range of Variables provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. It allows for different work practices and work and knowledge requirements as well as for differences between organisations and workplaces. The following variables may be present for this particular unit:

Assignment instructions may include:

instructions from supervisor/management

assignment objectives and timeframes

work tasks and procedures

resource and equipment requirements

reporting and documentation requirements.

Relevant information may include:

summary of case history

client instructions

terms of reference

cost schedule

reporting details

acceptable modes of enquiry

time limit for inquiry

operator manuals

manufacturer's specifications.

Organisational requirements may relate to:

legal and organisational policy and procedures including personnel practices and guidelines

organisational goals, objectives, plans, systems and processes

employer and employee rights and responsibilities

business and performance plans

policies and procedures relating to own role, responsibility and delegation

quality and continuous improvement processes and standards

client service standards

defined resource parameters

Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and programs

emergency and evacuation procedures

duty of care, code of conduct, code of ethics

access and equity policy, principles and practice

records and information systems and processes

communication channels and reporting procedures.

Resources and equipment may include:

35mm and video cameras

compass

tape measures

scales

writing instruments

voice recorder, transcript recorder

scanners (audio, document, computer)

lap-top computer

vehicle, air travel

mobile phones, pagers

personnel.

Appropriate persons may include:

security personnel

supervisors, management

clients

manufacturer's

security consultants

other professional or technical staff.

Specialist equipment may include:

audio/video

electronic counter surveillance equipment

infra-red

night vision goggles.

Technical specialists may include:

photographers

accountants

solicitors, lawyers

forensic experts

engineers

specialist investigators

information technology experts

undercover operatives.

Information sources may include:

colleagues, supervisor, management

records, reports, case notes

interviews, meetings

photographs

newspapers and other print media

specialists

internet and other electronic sources

library

industry networks

government departments/agencies

professional bodies

workshops, conferences, seminars.

Information systems may depend on:

importance of information

sensitivity of information

reliability of information

source or origin of information

where information is to be disseminated.

Client instructions may relate to:

confidentiality of information

handling and transmission requirements.

Business equipment may include:

computers and computer applications

modems

personal schedulers

e-mail

internet/extranet/intranet

facsimile machines

printers

photocopiers

scanners.

Available facts may include:

accident reports

personal records

personnel records

medical reports

machinery reports

employer accident records

claims

travel documents

policies.

Applicable legislation, codes and national standards may include:

relevant Commonwealth/State/Territory legislation which affect organisational operation

Australian Standards, quality assurance and certification requirements

relevant industry Codes of Practice

privacy requirements

freedom of information

trade practices

award and enterprise agreements

industrial relations, relevant industrial instruments

Occupational Health and Safety

environment and waste management

equal employment opportunity

anti-discrimination and diversity.

Evidence may be:

direct

circumstantial

physical

opinion

documentary

hearsay.

Interpersonal techniques may include:

verbal or non-verbal language

two-way interaction

constructive feedback

active listening

questioning to clarify and confirm understanding

interpreting non-verbal and verbal messages

observation techniques

use of positive, confident and co-operative language

control of tone of voice and body language

use of language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

use of clear presentations of options and consequences

demonstrating flexibility and willingness to compromise.

Social and cultural differences may be expressed in:

language (verbal, non-verbal, English)

traditional practices and observations

beliefs, values, practices

food, diet

dress

religious and spiritual observances

social conventions

cultural stereotypes

conventions of gender/sexuality.

Format requirements may relate to:

style

sequence of coverage

length

use of appendices

enclosures

use of abbreviations

common industry terminology.

Documentation may include:

written reports

oral briefings

activity reports

running sheets

task allocation sheets

radio/telephone records.

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Assignment instructions and relevant information is obtained to review client and organisational requirements 
Resource and equipment requirements are estimated based on assignment instructions and confirmed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures 
Requirements for specialist equipment and technical specialists are identified and confirmed with appropriate person(s) 
Information sources and systems are reliable and used in accordance with legislative and organisational guidelines 
Personal conduct, manner and presentation is maintained in accordance with code of conduct and organisational requirements 
A plan detailing key activities and their sequence is developed taking into consideration all known factors, client instructions and legal requirements 
Methods of collecting information are reliable and make efficient use of resources in accordance with organisational requirements 
Available facts and evidence is obtained from information sources, organised and secured in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements 
Interviews / meetings are planned, managed and conducted to gather maximum amount of information relevant to the assignment 
Interpersonal techniques are appropriate to assignment requirements and reflect sensitivity to individual social and cultural differences 
Comprehensive statements are taken in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures and contain details relevant to the assignment 
Business equipment is used in accordance with manufacturer's specifications to access, record and organise information 
Physical evidence is collected, where possible to support statements of fact 
Information is obtained within the specified time, budget and quality constraints in accordance with assignment and organisational requirements 
Information is evaluated in terms of validity, reliability and relevance and reviewed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures 
Recommendations and issues are presented in the required format, style and structure that is suitable for review and interpretation in accordance with organisational requirements 
Client satisfaction with service delivery is reviewed using verifiable data and appropriate feedback techniques in accordance with organisational policy and procedures 
Relevant workplace documentation is completed and processed in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures 
Information is safely and securely maintained and stored in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

PRSIS306A - Gather information by factual investigation
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:


Assessment Record Sheet

PRSIS306A - Gather information by factual investigation

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: