Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to complete significance assessments of collection objects. Significance is determined by applying criteria including value, meaning and history attached to objects.
The unit applies to individuals who work in both small and large organisations assessing the significance of objects in collections or being considered for inclusion in collections. In smaller organisations, the role may be undertaken by individuals with broader management responsibilities, by committees and boards of management, or combinations of different personnel. In larger organisations, specialised curatorial staff may undertake this role.
The significance of collection objects relates to their value to past, present and future generations and may apply to their aesthetic, historical, scientific or social value. In this unit, significance assessment is undertaken autonomously, according to established procedures but in consultation with others.
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. Prepare to assess the significance of objects | 1.1 Research the need for significance assessment, using relevant sources of information 1.2 Determine goal of undertaking significance assessment 1.3 Identify organisational policies that relate to significance assessment of objects |
2. Apply assessment methodology | 2.1 Compile object files containing available details about objects and their history 2.2 Research the history and provenance of objects and explore their wider historical and environmental context 2.3 Consult with relevant personnel to inform the context, provenance and social values of objects 2.4 Analyse and record the fabric, design, manufacture and condition of objects |
3. Develop statements of significance | 3.1 Identify comparative examples and evaluate them using primary and comparative criteria 3.2 Write statements of significance that describe the value and meaning of objects 3.3 Seek feedback from colleagues on statements of significance 3.4 Enter significance assessments into organisational records in the required format and within required timeframes |
4. Review assessments of objects | 4.1 Reassess significance of objects 4.2 Update statements of significance to reflect reassessment 4.3 Amend organisational records 4.4 Prepare recommendations for further action as required |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
research the history, provenance and comparative examples of objects using reputable sources of information
assess the significance of objects using the appropriate methodology and within required timeframes
develop a statement of significance of the value and meaning of objects that includes:
considered assessment of the value, meaning and importance of objects
benchmark for future use
communication of values for interpretive programs
images, where available, of other comparative objects
record of the crucial provenance details and association of objects
summary of the meaning and importance of objects
summary of the process of investigation and assessment
review assessment of objects and prepare recommendation for further action as required.
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:
locate and explain the purpose of the following organisational policies regarding managing collections and assessing objects:
policies for accessing and using sources of information for comparative examples
procedures for accessing reputable technical specialists
explain the methodology for significance assessment of objects
explain the difference between primary and comparative criteria in an assessment
describe the procedures for accessing reputable technical specialists
list sources of information for comparative examples that relate to:
national, state and local government public records
online collections databases
organisational policies and procedures.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:
tools, equipment and storage system for statements of significance
information sources
objects to assess
organisational policies and procedures related to significant assessments.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational 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, 1.3, 2.2 | Locates and interprets information to determine job requirements |
Writing | 2.1, 3.2, 3.4, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 | Develops material for a specific audience and purpose using clear and detailed language in order to convey explicit statements and recommendations Prepares and updates records in the required format to summarise key and significant information using correct spelling and grammar |
Oral Communication | 2.3, 3.3 | Participates in a verbal exchange of information and elicits the view and opinions of others regarding the provenance of objects by listening and questioning Asks clarifying questions that elicit clearer or more detailed information |
Numeracy | 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 3.1, 3.4 | Interprets numerical information and applies basic mathematical calculations to record the value of objects |
Navigate the world of work | 1.3, 2.1, 3.1, 4.3 | Takes responsibility for providing quality advice and information that complies with organisational requirements Identifies and follow organisational policies and procedures |
Interact with others | 2.3, 3.3 | Collaborates and cooperates with others to discuss significance issues and achieve joint outcomes |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 3.1, 3.4, 4.1, 4.4 | Takes responsibility for planning, sequencing and prioritising tasks and own workload for efficient and effective outcomes Uses analytical thinking techniques for identifying issues and generating possible solutions, seeking input from others as required Applies analytical processes to resolve problems associated with determining the significance of objects Uses digital technologies and systems to undertake research, enter data, and present and store information |
Sectors
Cultural services - collection management