Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out programming activities using a procedural approach.
It applies to individuals working in programming, development and technical roles. They may work as programmers, software developers or may be IT staff with responsibility for conducting programming activities, including writing, maintaining and updating programs, defining data and file handling.
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. Apply basic language syntax and layout | 1.1 Apply basic language syntax rules 1.2 Use language data types, operators and expressions to create clear and concise code 1.3 Use appropriate language syntax for sequence, selection and iteration constructs |
2. Code using data structures | 2.1 Use data structures 2.2 Write code to create and manipulate arrays 2.3 Design, define and use data structures |
3. Code using standard algorithms | 3.1 Create sequential search, binary search, insertion and deletion algorithms to operate on arrays 3.2 Code standard sequential access algorithms and random access algorithms |
4. Debug code | 4.1 Use stand-alone debugging tools or tools provided by integrated development environment (IDE) to debug code 4.2 Use a debugger to trace code execution and examine variable contents to detect and correct errors |
5. Document activities | 5.1 Follow organisational guidelines for developing maintainable code and adhere to provided coding standard when documenting activities 5.2 Apply internal documentation, suitable for use by peers, to all code created and use documentation tools available in target language when documenting activities |
6. Test code | 6.1 Design and document tests 6.2 Capture and record test results |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
perform coding activities to create, maintain and update programs using basic language and layout
write coding using data structures and standard algorithms, and following guidelines
debug code
generate design and code documentation
test and confirm that the application meets program specifications
record the test results.
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 and explain programming techniques
describe documentation techniques
give details of application development processes
summarise testing techniques.
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 programming and software development field of work and include access to:
integrated development environment (IDE) for the determined language
specific tools and licences, depending on particular platform and language.
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 | 5.1 | Interprets and critically analyses and applies appropriate strategies to construct meaning from complex texts |
Writing | 5.2, 6.1, 6.2 | Displays knowledge of structure and layout, employing broad vocabulary, grammatical structure and conventions appropriate to text |
Navigate the world of work | 5.1, 5.2 | Takes personal responsibility for following explicit and implicit policies, procedures and industry standards |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, 6.2 | Automatically implements standard procedures for routine decisions when programming, according to guidelines and standards Uses analytical processes to decide on a course of action, establishing criteria for deciding between options Understands key principles and concepts underpinning the design and operation of digital systems and tools |
Sectors
Programming and software development