1. Obtain, record and analyse information from the community

1.1 Identify information sources

1.2 Collect and record information according to organisational procedures and legislative and policy requirements

1.3 Collate, sort and analyse information collected in relation to the purpose for which it is being obtained

1.4 Ensure contents of recording forms and reports are in line with organisational requirements

2. Take and compile statements

2.1 Take comprehensive statements from sources appropriate to the matter being investigated according to organisational procedures and legislative and policy requirements

2.2 Use active listening when taking accurate statements from people

3. Conduct interviews

3.1 Plan, manage and conduct interviews to gather maximum amount of information relevant to the matter being examined

3.2 Treat all interviewees fairly and equitably

3.3 Conduct and record interviews according to legislation, policy and procedures

4. Use information and database systems

4.1 Enter information into database, adhering to data entry security procedures

4.2 Identify and use appropriate sources of information when recording data

4.3 Access and store information according to legislation, policy and procedures

5. Use interview and evidence recording equipment

5.1 Operate recording equipment according to legislation, policy and procedures

5.2 Produce records according to organisational requirements and procedures

5.3 Maintain equipment and usage logs in good order

6. Conduct follow-up activity with other members of the organisation

6.1 Identify and use communication links within the organisation to exchange information

6.2 Assess the relevance of information received in terms of its intended purpose

6.3 Dispose of irrelevant information according to legislation, policy and procedures

Overview of assessment

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

Evidence of the ability to:

record interviews, including audiotapes and statements if relevant to role

demonstrate interview techniques

demonstrate knowledge of statutory, regulatory and legislative requirements relating to surveying processes.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

information and databases for analysis activities

relevant legislation, standards and guidelines.

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 questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third-party workplace reports of onthejob performance by the candidate

review of statements or recording of details of contacts

review of compliance with statutory, regulatory, legislative and organisational requirements

oral and/or written questioning to assess knowledge of interviewing techniques and outcomes

oral and/or written questioning to assess knowledge of storage and disposal of information.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

Information sourcesmay include:

colleagues

community groups

community leaders

crime, accident and incident scenes

customers

general public

individuals

information databases

local government

local media

schools

specific target groups – in the case of opinion polls and surveys.

Informationmay include:

addressing public order and general community issues

assisting in an investigation

details of an incident or medical emergency

locating a specific person

location of witnesses

opinion poll or customer survey

progressing and supporting court hearings or matters.

Recording forms and reportsmay include:

handwritten and electronic pro formas and reporting styles

use of organisation’s enterprise information system.

Organisational requirementsmay include:

accurate

complete

concise

in the correct format

legible

understandable.

Comprehensive statementsmay include:

all details required by the organisation

all information required for the investigation or research task

records in a format that comply with the legal requirements for statements; where appropriate and legal, statements may also be recorded in forms other than written, such as audiotape or audiovisual (video) tape.

Recording equipmentmay be modified for use by people with a disability and may include:

audiotape recorders

authorisation, storage and filing of original and duplicates of tapes and film

basic fingerprinting equipment

video cameras and recording equipment.

Recordsmust be:

authorised, stored and assessed in line with organisational procedures

clear, audible and presentable.