Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake independent study as a research project directed towards an agri-business issue or problem, including a literature review. The project outcomes must be designed to influence strategic practices and outcomes within an industry context. Some topics will require knowledge of experimental design, survey techniques and statistical analysis of results.
This unit applies to leaders or managers using applied research methodologies to address an industry or sectorial issue.
The focus of this unit is on using research strategies to better understand industry opportunities and threats in order to gain improved industry performance.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Define topic | 1.1 Identify and scope research issue 1.2 Develop and refine research questions 1.3 Identify research methodologies 1.4 Develop hypotheses |
2. Undertake literature review | 2.1 Identify suitable sources of literature 2.2 Analyse and present literature outcomes 2.3 Refine research questions and strategy in light of literature review findings |
3. Undertake research | 3.1 Develop and validate research instruments 3.2 Identify and address ethical and confidentiality requirements 3.3 Identify environmental sustainability issues associated with the research 3.4 Undertake research 3.5 Record findings |
4. Present findings | 4.1 Analyse research outcomes 4.2 Review and analyse research methodology 4.3 Develop recommendations 4.4 Prepare and present research report 4.5 Present report for peer review |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must undertake an independent research project directed towards an agri-business issue or problem.
The candidate must demonstrate ability to:
use analysis and interpretation skills to:
critically review other research strategies, analyses and findings
apply research findings to a current issue
select relevant information and documentation
use communication and negotiation skills to:
present and explain research ideas
gain commitment to participate in research activity
present findings
develop and conduct research activity
undertake risk assessment and resolve blockages
The candidate must provide evidence of:
comprehensive literature review
formulated research proposal or plan including:
specific research questions or hypotheses
valid population or sample size
description of the geographical, cultural, social or institutional context within which the research will be undertaken
full description of the data collection methods
analysis of the limitations to research design
design appropriate tools and techniques
research report with analysis of data, and valid and reliable findings
utility and relevance of the research results
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate specialised and integrated technical and theoretical knowledge of:
relevant legislation and regulatory requirements impacting on research activity
research strategies and techniques
data collection methods
risk assessment and monitoring strategies, including environmental risk analysis
strategies to evaluate and analyse effectiveness of research approach
environmental sustainability principles
Assessment Conditions
Competency must be demonstrated through sustained performance over time, at an appropriate level of responsibility and under typical operating and production conditions for the enterprise.
Assessment must ensure:
research activity relates to an actual workplace or industry context and topic
competence is demonstrated using a range of tools and techniques appropriate to the given situations and research topic
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.