DEFTST006
Analyse test data


Application

This unit describes the skills required to analyse data collected during a test and evaluation process. It includes establishing trends and relationships in the data, and establishing the acceptability of the data.

This unit was developed for Defence test and evaluation workers, but is applicable to any individuals who work in this field.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.

Those undertaking this unit would work independently or as part of a team, under direct and indirect supervision, use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their output. They would perform complex tasks in a range of contexts.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Perform scientific calculations

1.1 Ensure consistency of raw data with expectations and reasonable ranges.

1.2 Calculate scientific quantities.

1.3 Determine calculated quantities and estimations.

1.4 Present results using the appropriate units, uncertainties and number of significant figures.

2. Analyse trends and relationships in data

2.1 Determine relationships between sets of data.

2.2 Prepare and analyse data to determine if a process is in control.

2.3 Identify possible causes for out of control condition.

3. Determine variation and/or uncertainty in data distributions

3.1 Organise raw data into appropriate frequency distributions.

3.2 Calculate statistical properties for ungrouped and grouped data.

3.3 Interpret statistical properties to determine characteristics of sample or population.

3.4 Calculate standard deviations and confidence limits for means and replicates.

3.5 Determine uncertainty in measurements using statistical analysis.

3.6 Determine data acceptability using statistical tests and organisational procedures.

4. Check for aberrant results

4.1 Identify results that cannot be reconciled with documentation, testing procedures and/or expected outcomes.

4.2 Determine appropriate actions in consultation with supervisor as required.

5. Maintain results

5.1 Store, retrieve and manipulate data following document traceability procedures.

5.2 Present results in an appropriate format.

5.3 Verify entry of data and results.

5.4 Maintain security and confidentiality of data.

5.5 Prepare reports in a format and style consistent with their intended use and organisational guidelines.

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

completing mathematical calculations involving fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions and percent

evaluating mathematical formulae

interpreting scientific properties

preparing and interpreting graphs and data


Evidence of Knowledge

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.

characteristics of a valid measurement

procedures for data traceability

procedures for maintaining and filing records, security of data

procedures for verifying data and rectifying mistakes

relevant scientific terminology

sources of uncertainty in measurements


Assessment Conditions

Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.


Foundation Skills

The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.

Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.


Competency Field

Testing