Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select, configure and use computer operating systems and basic computer hardware, including configuring the operating system to work with a variety of hardware peripherals and types of information and communications technology (ICT) equipment.
It applies to individuals who may work under supervision and provide support to others using a range of skills to identify and resolve issues.
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 operating system and hardware components | 1.1 Determine ICT organisational requirements and specifications 1.2 Identify and select the operating system 1.3 Identify appropriate external hardware components 1.4 Identify internal hardware components |
2. Install and configure operating system and application software with hardware components | 2.1 Install and configure the operating system to meet organisational requirements 2.2 Identify functions associated with the operating system and associated boot process 2.3 Configure power management settings to minimise power consumption, as an environmentally sustainable measure 2.4 Use both the graphical user interface and the command line interface to perform basic tasks 2.5 Install or upgrade application software onto the operating system and hardware configuration 2.6 Determine the relationship between an application program, the operating system and hardware 2.7 Identify general differences between different computer platforms and their respective operating systems |
3. Optimise operating system and hardware components | 3.1 Optimise operating system, using included tools or third-party utilities 3.2 Customise the graphical user interface 3.3 Use techniques unique to the command line interface 3.4 Set up and configure external hardware components and check functionality 3.5 Install drivers as appropriate and check functionality |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
use an operating system in a variety of scenarios and across functions, including:
scheduling, loading, initiating, and supervising the execution of programs
allocating storage
initiating and controlling input and output operations
handling errors
identify and install suitable hardware components
install and upgrade application software.
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:
outline the basic specifications of current industry accepted operating systems, hardware and applications software products
explain the compatibility of an operating system, in respect to other versions
explain the function of single-user and multi-user operating systems
explain interoperability between operating systems
outline work health and safety (WHS) principles and responsibilities, including ergonomic principles to avoid injury associated with using computer systems.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the general information and communications technology (ICT) industry, and include access to:
hardware components
work health and safety (WHS) standards and organisational policy and procedures
an operating system currently used in industry
software configuration guides
documents detailing operating system control panel and configuration data.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
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, 1.4, 2.1-2.7, 3.1-3.5 | Identifies and reviews both on-line and hard-copy text containing simple sentences with terminology relevant to the ICT industry Interprets and comprehends diagrams, icons, symbols, text, numbers and letters necessary to install and configure operating systems, software and hardware |
Writing | 2.1, 2.4, 2.5, 3.3 | Uses systems related syntax, text and numbers to input commands Uses correct terminology, text, letters and numbers to respond to computer generated prompts |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.4, 2.1-2.7, 3.1-3.5 | Plans routine tasks with familiar goals and outcomes, taking limited responsibility for decisions regarding sequencing and timing Understands purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools |
Sectors
General ICT