Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to search and analyse information from a range of bibliographic and full text databases, evaluate these against specific criteria, and then present this information to clients.
It applies to individuals who undertake regular database searches as part of their information services role. Work is undertaken with limited supervision and according to organisational and system guidelines.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements 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 Identify and access databases | 1.1 Assess range of databases available to information services providers 1.2 Differentiate between databases and internet websites as sources of information 1.3 Select appropriate databases to meet specific information needs 1.4 Use required procedures to access databases 1.5 Comply with copyright and licensing conditions relevant to use of databases |
2 Construct searches | 2.1 Conduct database searches using a range of search techniques suited to information needs 2.2 Use and manipulate features of databases to construct effective searches and access required information 2.3 Consult online manuals and database search tips to refine or revise search strategies |
3 Present information | 3.1 Evaluate search results to identify information that meets needs 3.2 Conduct further searches and evaluations and download as required 3.3 Present or organise information in formats appropriate to customer needs 3.4 Prepare reference lists as required according to standard referencing styles |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
analyse and evaluate a range of databases
adopt appropriate search techniques to source information in response to a range of customer needs
use current industry systems and equipment efficiently and effectively
respond effectively and appropriately to multiple and varied information requests.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
describe role of databases in context of the information services industry
describe scope and type of databases available to information services providers
define features of commonly used databases, including:
bibliographic information
downloadable records
in
current prices
describe differences between database and internet searching
compare and contrast several database searching techniques and procedures
identify relevant copyright, moral rights and intellectual property issues and legislation relevant to the use of information from databases.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in the Library – Information Services field of work and include access to:
technology and databases to support information searching
special purpose tools, equipment, materials and relevant industry software packages.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1-1.5, 2.1-2.3, 3.1, 3.2, | Critically analyses information from a variety of physical and electronic sources and consolidates information to determine requirements |
Writing | 1.3, 3.3, 3.4 | Accurately records and completes organisational documents using clear language and correct spelling, grammar and terminology |
Oral Communication | 3.3 | Uses appropriate techniques, including active listening and questioning, to clarify information and confirm understanding |
Numeracy | 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.3, 3.1-3.3 | Extracts and evaluates mathematical information embedded in a range of tasks and texts |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 3.3, 3.4 | Takes personal responsibility for following explicit and implicit policies, procedures and legislative requirements Maintains knowledge of databases and sources of information necessary to perform role |
Interact with others | Selects and uses appropriate conventions and protocols when communicating with customers and co-workers in a range of work contexts | |
Get the work done | 1.3, 1.4, 2.1- 2.3, 3.1-3.4 | Takes responsibility for planning, sequencing and prioritising tasks and own workload for efficiency and effective outcomes Makes routine decisions based on implementation of standard procedures Responds to predictable routine problems and implements standard or logical solutions Uses familiar digital technologies and systems to access information, search and enter data and present information |
Sectors
Library – Information Services