• LGACOM501B - Develop and organise public education programs

LGACOM501B
Develop and organise public education programs

This unit covers providing education and information to the public on issues of public importance. The high public profile of council and the unique role councils can play in educating the public on matters of interest and concern are recognised. The unit is appropriate for those responsible for developing public education programs.

Application

This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for competent workplace performance in councils of all sizes. Knowledge of the legislation and regulations within which councils must operate is essential. The unique nature of councils, as a tier of government directed by elected members and reflecting the needs of local communities, must be appropriately reflected.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Determine requirements for provision of information to public

1.1. Need for information is determined from review of common public inquiries, public compliance levels and new trends and issues.

1.2. Information requirements are determined through discussion with clients, general public and relevant interest groups.

1.3. Requirements of relevant legislation and council policy are identified and incorporated into information requirements.

1.4. Specific educational objectives are determined from information needs of public.

1.5. Specific target groups are identified for education.

2. Determine appropriate medium to educate public

2.1. Appropriate medium is determined for public education program.

2.2. Educational medium is cost-effective and maximises access to target groups.

2.3. Education medium allows clear and understandable communication of information to target groups.

3. Provide education to public

3.1. Accurate information is provided in a clear and relevant manner and in accordance with the learning needs of the target group.

3.2. Target group is provided with opportunities to confirm understanding and seek clarification where required.

3.3. Reliable documentation and publications suitable to target group and nature of issues are provided for ongoing reference where required.

3.4. Details on council services are provided to assist in future service provision as required.

3.5. Information on community, government and industry services available to the target group is provided where required.

4. Review and evaluate education program

4.1. Reliable feedback is sourced to enable effective evaluation of the educational program.

4.2. Programs are evaluated to determine success in meeting educational objectives and overall effectiveness of program outcomes.

5. Maintain records of public education programs

5.1. Education program materials are filed and stored according to agreed procedures.

5.2. Evaluation and feedback on programs are available for use in future program development.

5.3. Records of education schedules and costings are up to date and accurate.

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills

communication of information

presentation of information

research of public needs

management of difficult situations

problem solving

time management

organisational

Required Knowledge

subject matter to be presented

adult education principles

different educational mediums

presentation techniques

Evidence Required

Overview of assessment requirements

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered

The demonstrated ability to:

develop and organise public education programs

use a range of information sources when determining information requirements

develop and impart accurate information to the public that complies with council and legislative requirements

organise and use suitable mediums.

Context of assessment

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken within the context of the local government framework. Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria, including the Range of Variables applicable to the workplace environment.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies

written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documentation

third-party reports from experienced practitioners

completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor.

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance

Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated management environments.

Resource implications

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that encompasses:

information on council services, policies, statutory obligations and requirements

developing mediums such as videotapes, brochures and displays.


Range Statement

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Need for information may arise from:

new legislation

new council policy

current and emerging environmental and sustainability issues/policies

new council services

health considerations

customer needs and requirements

compliance requirements

Information may include:

services available

legislation

impacts on health, environment or safety

Appropriate medium may include:

brochures

fact sheets

displays

videotapes

public meetings

Sources of information may include:

council publications

council business papers

statutory authorities

state and federal governments

other councils

regional organisations of councils


Sectors

Common.


Competency Field

Not applicable.


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.