SlideShare a Scribd company logo
CORE SKILLS FOR WORK
DEVELOPMENTAL FRAMEWORK
The Framework
Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education
and
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
ISBN 978-1-922125-42-2
DIISRTE 12/179
Thank you to all the stakeholders who helped in the development of this document by
attending consultation sessions and providing expertise, feedback and suggestions.
© Commonwealth of Australia 2013
Department’s of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary
Education; and Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.
This work is copyright. It may be reproduced in whole or in part for study or training
purposes subject to the inclusion of the source and no commercial usage or sale.
Reproduction for purposes other than those indicated above require the written
permission from the Commonwealth. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction
and rights should be addressed to the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science,
Research and Tertiary Education, GPO Box 9839, Canberra ACT 2601.
The CSfW was funded by the Commonwealth of Australia and developed by
Ithaca Group Pty Ltd
The views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect the views of the
Commonwealth of Australia.
The CSfW can also be accessed via the following websites www.deewr.gov.au/csfw and
www.innovation.gov.au/csfw.
CONTENTS
Introduction to the CSfW 1
Skill Areas 1
Influencing Factors 2
Background to the development of the CSfW 3
Purpose of the CSfW 4
Concepts underpinning the CSfW 5
A developmental approach 5
Context-dependency 5
Relevance to a range of contexts 6
Structure of the CSfW 8
Using the CSfW 13
The Performance Features 13
The Influencing Factors 13
Performance Features Tables 15
1a. Manage career and work life 16
1b. Work with roles, rights and protocols 20
2a. Communicate for work 24
2b. Connect and work with others 29
2c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives 34
3a. Plan and organise 39
3b. Make decisions 42
3c. Identify and solve problems 46
3d. Create and innovate 50
3e. Work in a digital world 54
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 1
INTRODUCTION TO THE CSFW
The Core Skills for Work Developmental Framework (the CSfW) describes a set of non-technical skills,
knowledge and understandings that underpin successful participation in work1
. Participation in work could
be as an employee, as someone who is self-employed, or as a volunteer.
This set of non-technical skills, often referred to as generic or employability skills, contribute to work
performance in combination with technical or discipline specific skills and core language, literacy and
numeracy (LLN) skills2
. As illustrated in Figure 1, work performance is also influenced by a range of factors
relating to the context in which the skills are being applied.
Figure 1. CORE SKILLS FOR WORK IN CONTEXT
Skill Areas
The CSfW describes performance in ten Skill Areas, grouped under three Skill Clusters:
Cluster 1 - Navigate the world of work
a. Manage career and work life
b. Work with roles, rights and protocols
Cluster 2 - Interact with others
a. Communicate for work
b. Connect and work with others
c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives
1 The term ‘work’ is used throughout the CSfW in the broadest sense of “activity that is directed at a specific purpose, which involves mental or
physical effort”.
2 The combination of LLN skills (as detailed in the Australian Core Skills Framework) and Core Skills for Work is referred to as Foundation Skills
in the Vocational Education and Training Sector. In the school sector these two types of skills are described as General Capabilities and in the
higher education sector they are referred to as Graduate Attributes.
Core Skills for Work
Technical or
Discipline
Specific Skills
Context
LLN Skills
Work Performance
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 2
Cluster 3 - Get the work done
a. Plan and organise
b. Make decisions
c. Identify and solve problems
d. Create and innovate
e. Work in a digital world
Each Skill Area describes a combination of knowledge, skills and understandings and their application to
work.
The CSfW recognises that these Skill Areas are relevant to all those undertaking work, not just those entering
the workforce for the first time, and that they can continue to be developed across the span of an individual’s
working life. The CSfW describes performance in each of the Skill Areas across five stages (see page 9). It also
recognises that:
■
■ the particular skills and stages of performance required by individuals will vary according to the
context in which they are operating
■
■ there is no expectation that individuals will necessarily need all of these skills, or will need to
develop them to the expert stage of performance
■
■ an individual is likely to be operating at different stages of performance across different Skill Areas
■
■ an individual’s ability to demonstrate and develop these skills will be influenced by the context in
which they are operating.
Influencing Factors
In recognition of the fact that performance in these Skill Areas is context-dependent, the CSfW identifies a
number of factors that impact upon the development and demonstration of Core Skills for Work.
Performance in a work situation is not only dependent on the skills and knowledge that an individual brings to
it, but on a range of factors that may affect how well they can apply these to different tasks. Contextual factors
also affect an individual’s capacity to demonstrate certain skills or to develop them further. For example,
someone may have highly developed decision-making skills, but if they are not given the autonomy or their
job role does not require them to exercise these skills, their demonstrable performance in this Skill Area may
reflect a lower stage performance.
These ‘Influencing Factors’ are illustrated in Figure 2 (see page 3) and described in detail in Table 4
(see pages 11–12).
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 3
Figure 2. FACTORS INFLUENCING WORK PERFORMANCE
BACKGROUND TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CSFW
The notion of employability has been part of education for many years. In the early 1990s, the concept
of employment-related skills gained traction in Australia when the Mayer Committee examined the
skills required for entry-level employment. The Mayer Key Competencies were developed to enable the
incorporation of these skills into education and training.
In 2002, Australian industry took a lead role in describing the skills required to gain and progress in
employment. These ‘employability skills’ were identified in the Employability Skills for the Future report,
prepared by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and the Business Council of Australia
(BCA) with funding from the Commonwealth Government. The Employability Skills described in that report
were taken up in Australia’s vocational education and training sector, but concerns remained about how well
these skills were being developed and understood.
Consultations in Stage One of the CSfW development identified that there was potential for a new Framework
to provide a common language that would assist all education, training and employment services sectors
to address these skills more explicitly. The development of the CSfW drew upon recent research about
employability and generic skills and their development, as well as analysis of a range of current approaches
to addressing employability and generic skills in Australia and overseas. More than 800 people had input
into the development process, including employers, unions and industry groups and a broad cross-section of
organisations and sectors that have an interest in, and potential use for, the CSfW.
The CSfW, as described in this document, is intended to be reviewed after a number of years of use to check
whether it would benefit from adjustment or further development.
Existing skills
and knowledge
External
factors
Cultural and
value-based
factors
Degree of
motivation
Nature and
degree of
support
Level of
autonomy
Complexity
of tasks
Familiarity
with context
Self-belief
and resilience
Demonstrable
Performance
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 4
PURPOSE OF THE CSFW
The CSfW has been designed to make more clear and explicit a set of non-technical skills and knowledge that
underpin successful participation in work. This provides a common reference point and language that will
assist:
■
■ those who develop standards, curriculum, programs and learning and assessment resources to
more clearly articulate the Core Skills for Work required for certain occupations or at particular
points in career development
■
■ trainers, educators and those who work with job seekers to more explicitly address the
development of these skills in learners, and to assist those they work with to more clearly
articulate the skills they do possess and identify those that they would like to develop.
The CSfW is not a set of standards, nor an assessment tool. It is a framework for conceptualising and
articulating skills, knowledge and understandings that underpin work performance over time, and for guiding
further development. It is not intended to replace approaches to developing these skills that are already in
place, but to provide a common underpinning that is relevant across sectors.
The CSfW takes the skills and behaviours that have been identified by Australian employers as important for
successful participation in work and identifies the underpinning skills and knowledge involved. For example,
employers say that they value individuals who can work in teams. This has been ‘unpacked’ across a range of
skills, such as:
■
■ work with roles, rights and protocols
■
■ respect and utilise diverse perspectives
■
■ connect and work with others.
Knowledge, skills and understandings that are often taken for granted in expectations around work
performance, such as those needed to recognise the protocols of a workplace, and those that facilitate the
adaptation of prior knowledge and skills to new contexts, are also made explicit in the CSfW.
The CSfW presents the underpinning skills, knowledge and understandings in terms that make them
describable, teachable and/or learnable, and able to be demonstrated. This approach provides education,
training and employment services sectors with a foundation from which to develop relevant learning products
(e.g. Training Packages, curriculum, programs, tools or resources) for addressing the elements of the CSfW
most relevant to their sector (see Figure 3 below). There is also potential for tools and resources to be
developed from the CSfW for use in the workplace.
Figure 3. THE PURPOSE OF THE CSFW
Employers and
industry have
identified the
non-technical
requirements
for successful
participation in
the workforce
The CSfW
clearly defines
the generic
underpinning skills
and knowledge
needed to meet
these requirements
Those providing
services to learners
and job seekers use
relevant elements of
the CSfW in the
development of
customised products
Workforce Needs The CSfW Learning Products
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 5
CONCEPTS UNDERPINNING THE CSFW
A developmental approach
The CSfW utilises a developmental approach, informed by Dreyfus and Dreyfus’ Novice to Expert Model of
Skills Acquisition3
and other research on skill development and performance. It encompasses five stages of
performance - Novice, Advanced Beginner, Capable4
, Proficient and Expert.
As was recognised in Dreyfus and Dreyfus’ work, the CSfW recognises that:
■
■ as an individual progresses from the “novice” stage through to later stages of development, their
reliance upon explicit ‘rules’ governing action (e.g. instructions, processes, procedures, guidelines,
models,) and systematic approaches to work tasks decreases, and their understanding of implicit
‘rules’ (e.g. conventions, expectations), use of judgement and more flexible, intuitive approaches
increases
■
■ practical experience, reflection, motivation and support influence the degree and rate of progress
through the stages
■
■ when an individual moves into a new context (e.g. a new role, organisation or industry/field, or
from study into paid employment), while they will not ‘lose’ their skills, their ability to apply them
will be diminished until they understand the new context.
The CSfW applies these principles to performance in each Skill Area, rather than to work performance as
a whole. Therefore, someone could be a novice in paid employment but still demonstrate a higher stage of
performance in particular aspects of Skill Areas. For example, someone starting their first paid job may be
at the Capable stage in aspects of Communicating for Work related to ‘speaking and listening’ and ‘getting
the message across’, but at Novice stage in ‘responding to communication system, practices and protocols’
because they don’t yet understand the systems and practices of the workplace. It is quite possible that an
individual will have a ‘spiky profile’ such as this within a Skill Area, and also across Skill Areas.
Table 1 (see page 7) provides a generic description of performance at each stage, which is the basis for
describing specific performance across each of the five stages in each Skill Area.
Context-dependency
The context-dependent nature of Core Skills for Work means that the stage of performance at which an
individual will operate is highly dependent on their understanding of the situation in which they are applying
their skills. For example, someone who is ‘proficient’ at solving problems in one organisation will require
some time to build relationships and learn the protocols of a new organisation before they have the situational
knowledge and understanding they require to demonstrate proficient performance in the new situation. In the
interim, they may need to revert to the formal problem solving processes of a ‘capable’ performer.
This means that when using the CSfW, the context in which an individual is operating and their level of
familiarity with the context need to be recognised. For example the stage of performance that an individual
can demonstrate in an education and training setting is likely to be different from the stage at which they can
initially function in a workplace setting. However, as their understanding of the workplace context grows, so
will their ability to function at their former level.
A number of the skills described in the CSfW assist individuals to adapt and apply their existing skills and
knowledge in new contexts. These include skills such as reflection, learning, adopting different viewpoints and
developing new ideas.
3 Dreyfus, H. and Dreyfus, S. (1985) Mind over machine: the power of human intuition and expertise in the era of the computer. Free Press,
New York
4 The term ‘capable’ has been substituted for the term ‘competent’ used by Dreyfus and Dreyfus because of the specific meaning and use of the
term ‘competent’ in the Vocational Education and Training sector.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 6
Relevance to a range of contexts
The CSfW’s descriptors are designed to be applicable across different contexts, including different industries
and fields and work settings. The term ‘work’ is intended to be applicable not only to employment contexts,
but also in education and training, and broader community contexts. For example, the Performance Feature
from Skill Area 2c, Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives, says: “Begins to recognise how some personal
values and beliefs align with, or differ from those of others in the immediate work context, and may consider
how this impacts on interactions and work performance”, can equally apply to working with others:
■
■ on an activity in a classroom setting
■
■ to complete a group assessment task
■
■ in an organisation or project team in paid employment
■
■ in the form of a client/customer relationship
■
■ on a committee for a community group.
However, performance is not automatically transferrable to new contexts, as application of skills, knowledge
and understandings in a new context requires an understanding of that context. Hence, an individual who has
only ever applied their skills in a classroom setting will need to learn about the protocols and expectations of
a work situation, and gain practical experience in applying their skills in a work environment before they can
demonstrate their skills at the same stage of performance within that work context.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 7
Table 1. GENERIC DESCRIPTIONS OF STAGES OF PERFORMANCE
STAGES
A Novice
performer
An Advanced
Beginner
A Capable
performer
A Proficient
performer
An Expert
performer
Has little or no
practical experience
of the Skill Area
on which to base
actions.
Is highly reliant
on explicit ‘rules’
(e.g. instructions,
processes,
procedures,
models), guidance
and support
and priorities
determined by
others, to guide
activities.
Has some practical
experience of the
Skill Area and
is beginning to
recognise patterns
(e.g. routines,
regular responses,
links and
connections) that
help understanding
and influence
action.
Is still reliant on
explicit ‘rules’ and
on assistance to
identify priorities,
but can apply these
more autonomously
in familiar, routine
situations.
Has sufficient
practical experience
of the Skill Area to
identify patterns
and organising
principles and
establish priorities
for action.
Can comfortably
apply the explicit
and implicit ‘rules’
associated with
familiar situations.
Adopts a
systematic,
analytical approach
to tasks, especially
in unfamiliar
situations.
Has considerable
practical experience
of the Skill Area in
a range of contexts
and is moving
from reliance
on externally
prescribed rules
to recognition of
principles that
guide actions.
Organises
knowledge
and practical
experience as
patterns, concepts
and principles,
which makes it
possible to assess,
and respond
to situations in
an increasingly
intuitive and flexible
way.
Reverts to analysis
and seeks
guidance when
making important
decisions.
Has extensive
practical
experience of the
Skill Area, with
both a big picture
understanding and
an eye for relevant
fine detail.
Operates fluidly,
intuitively and
flexibly in highly
complex situations,
drawing on
knowledge and
practical experience
organised into
highly refined
patterns, concepts
and principles.
Uses a combination
of informed
intuition and
analysis in
different situations,
recognising that ‘it
all depends’.
Will often
reconceptualise
approaches and
practices to
produce more
effective outcomes,
while also
recognising which
rules and principles
are always
applicable.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 8
STRUCTURE OF THE CSFW
The CSfW is comprised of the elements described below. The way in which they are used within the CSfW is
illustrated in Table 2 (see page 9).
Skill Clusters
The Skill Areas that interact most closely with each other are grouped into three broad categories. While Skill
Areas within a cluster have a particular affinity, there is also interaction across clusters.
Skill Areas
The ten Skill Areas are a combination of:
■
■ Knowledge — what someone knows about in a theoretical or abstract sense,
■
■ Understanding — how they link it to their personal experience, and
■
■ Skills — how they put their knowledge and understanding into practice in work settings.
The Skill Areas are defined in Table 3 (see page 10).
Focus Areas
A set of Focus Areas has been identified for each Skill Area. These represent the priority aspects to be
considered, and were identified from the literature and consultation.
Performance Features
Organised by Focus Area, Performance Features describe the kinds of things someone knows, understands
and can do at each stage of performance. Although not intended to be treated as a finite list of capabilities,
they capture the key characteristics that distinguish one Stage of Performance from another.
The Performance Features are described in the tables from page 15 onwards.
Influencing Factors
At any point in time, performance may also be affected by one or more of a range of factors relevant to the
individual concerned and to the context in which they are situated. These Influencing Factors are described in
Table 4 (see pages 11-12).
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 9
Table 2. STRUCTURE OF THE CSFW
FRAMEWORKSkill
Cluster
Skill
Area
Focus
Areas
Novice
Advanced
Beginner
Capable
Proficient
Expert
Navigate
the
world
of
work
1a.
Manage
career
and
work
life
Identify
work
options;
Gain
work;
Develop
relevant
skills
and
knowledge
See
relevant
Performance
Features
tables
for
details
1b.
Work
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols
Work
with
roles
and
responsibilities;
Operate
within
legal
rights
and
responsibilities;
Recognise
and
respond
to
protocols
Interact
with
others
2a.
Communicate
for
work
Respond
to
communication
systems,
practices
and
protocols;
Speak
and
listen;
Understand,
interpret
and
act;
Get
the
message
across
See
relevant
Performance
Features
tables
for
details
2b.
Connect
and
work
with
others
Understand
self;
Build
rapport;
Cooperate
and
collaborate
2c.
Recognise
and
utilise
diverse
perspectives
Recognise
different
perspectives;
Respond
to
and
utilise
diverse
perspectives;
Manage
conflict
Get
the
work
done
3a.
Plan
and
organise
Plan
and
organise
workload
and
commitments;
Plan
and
implement
tasks
See
relevant
Performance
Features
tables
for
details
3b.
Make
decisions
Establish
decision
making
scope;
Apply
decision-
making
processes;
Review
impact
3c.
Identify
and
solve
problems
Identify
problems;
Apply
problem-solving
processes;
Review
outcomes
3d.
Create
and
innovate
Recognise
opportunities
to
develop
and
apply
new
ideas;
Generate
ideas;
Select
ideas
for
implementation
3e.
Work
in
a
digital
world
Use
digitally
based
technologies
and
systems;
Connect
with
others;
Access,
organise,
and
present
information;
Manage
risk
Influencing
Factors
•
existing
skills
and
knowledge
•
familiarity
with
the
context
•
complexity
of
tasks
•
nature
and
degree
of
support
•
level
of
autonomy
•
degree
of
motivation
•
self-belief
and
resilience
•
cultural
and
value-based
factors
•
external
factors
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 10
Table 3. DEFINITIONS OF THE SKILL AREAS
SKILLS
Navigate
the
world
of
work
Interact
with
others
Get
the
work
done
1a.
Manage
career
and
work
life
This
Skill
Area
is
about
managing
decisions
throughout
life
about
how,
when
and
where
to
work.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
identify
work
and
career
options,
to
gain
work
or
career
advancement,
and
to
undertake
learning
appropriate
to
work
needs
and
goals.
1b.
Work
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols
This
Skill
Area
is
about
understanding
work
roles
and
workplace
rights
and
expectations.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
identify
and
manage
responsibilities,
recognise
and
respond
to
legal
rights
and
responsibilities,
and
to
recognise
and
respond
to
expectations
and
accepted
practices
of
work
situations.
2a.
Communicate
for
work
This
Skill
Area
is
about
using
communication
skills
to
achieve
work
outcomes.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
recognise
communication
protocols
and
etiquette,
use
communication
systems
and
processes,
understand
messages
and
get
messages
across
to
others.
2b.
Connect
and
work
with
others
This
Skill
Area
is
about
building
the
work-related
relationships
needed
to
achieve
an
outcome
within
a
workgroup,
or
achieve
goals
through
team
based
collaborations.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
understand
others
and
build
rapport,
which
in
turn
involves
understanding
one’s
own
values,
goals,
expectations
and
emotions,
and
making
choices
about
regulating
one’s
own
behaviour,
taking
the
needs
of
others,
and
the
often
implicit
social
rules
of
the
context,
into
account.
2c.
Recognise
and
utilise
diverse
perspectives
This
Skill
Area
is
about
the
capacity
to
recognise
and
respond
to
differing
values,
beliefs
and
behaviours,
to
draw
on
diverse
perspectives
for
work
purposes
and
to
manage
conflict
when
it
arises.
3a.
Plan
and
organise
This
Skill
Area
is
about
identifying
and
completing
the
steps
needed
to
undertake
tasks
and
manage
workloads.
This
involves
the
capacity
to
organise
self
and
information,
plan
and
implement
tasks,
and
plan
and
organise
workloads.
3b.
Make
decisions
This
Skill
Area
is
about
making
a
choice
from
a
range
of
possibilities.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
use
different
decision-making
approaches
and
to
reflect
on
the
outcomes
of
decisions.
3c.
Identify
and
solve
problems
This
Skill
Area
is
about
identifying
and
addressing
routine
and
non-routine
problems
in
order
to
achieve
work
objectives.
This
involves
the
capacity
to
anticipate
or
identify
problems,
take
steps
to
solve
problems
and
reflect
on
the
outcomes.
3d.
Create
and
innovate
This
Skill
Area
is
about
creating,
applying
and
recognising
the
value
of
new
ideas
to
solve
problems,
improve
or
develop
new
processes,
products
or
strategies,
or
deliver
new
benefits.
It
involves
the
capacity
to
challenge
perceptions
of
how
things
are,
and
how
they
might
be,
and
to
recognise
a
potential
opportunity.
It
also
involves
the
use
of
formal
processes
to
challenge
and
extend
initial
perceptions
of
a
situation,
and
generate,
and
select
from,
a
range
of
new
ideas.
3e.
Work
in
a
digital
world
This
Skill
Area
refers
to
the
capacity
to
connect
to
other
people,
information
and
contexts
for
work-related
purposes
using
digital
systems
and
technology.
It
involves
understanding
concepts
and
language
associated
with
the
digital
world
and
the
capacity
to
understand
and
work
with
emerging/accepted
etiquette
and
risks
associated
with
online
environments.
It
also
involves
identifying
how
digital
technology
and
digitally
based
systems
can
extend,
enhance
or
make
possible
specific
aspects
of
a
role
or
task,
and
create
new
opportunities.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 11
Table 4. INFLUENCING FACTORS
Existing skills and knowledge
At any point in time, an individual’s capacity to apply any of the Core Skills for Work may be influenced
by their technical skills and LLN skills. For example, developing and using skills in the Skill Area
‘Communicate for Work’ will be dependent on having the associated LLN skills, and capacity to ‘Identify
and Solve problems’ in a work context may also require relevant technical knowledge, skills and
understandings.
Individuals may also be able to draw on skills and understandings developed in a non-work context. For
example, someone with extensive experience of planning and organising complex community events may
be able to adapt principles and concepts learnt through that experience to a work context, and may move
through the stages of development more quickly than someone who has limited practical experience of
that Skill Area on which to draw.
Familiarity with the context
Just as overall work performance is highly dependent upon an individual’s level of familiarity with the
context, performance in a specific Skill Area will also be influenced by context familiarity.
Context could include a particular environment (such as a workplace or study environment), an
industry or field, an organisation or part of an organisation, a role type, a specific role or a task.
Familiarity might include knowledge and understanding of aspects of the context such as the
language, conventions and expectations, as well as the people and workplace culture, role
requirements and tasks.
When an individual changes context, their performance in a Skill Area may alter significantly. For
example, a capable problem solver in one organisation automatically implements appropriate measures
to resolve familiar, routine issues. In a new organisation, many aspects of the situation will also be new,
and they may find themselves operating at the novice or advanced beginner stage of problem solving for a
time until they develop an understanding of how things are supposed to work in the new context and skills
in applying the new rules.
Complexity of tasks
Work performance will diminish if the complexity of the tasks an individual is required to undertake is
beyond their level of capability and confidence. Novices in a specific Skill Area will perform best if they
apply their skills within well defined, highly predictable concrete tasks of one or two steps, whereas a
distinguishing feature of expert performance in any Skill Area is the capacity to apply the relevant skills
and knowledge in complex situations involving multiple variables, interpretations and options for action.
Nature and degree of support
Appropriate support has been shown to have a significant influence on work performance, facilitating the
nature, degree and efficiency of an individual’s learning, assisting them to gain information and insights,
identify critical issues and set priorities, and providing feedback that contributes to their continuing
development.
Support can take many forms e.g. guidance, supervision, mentoring, peer support, organisation manuals,
training and development activities, online and external information sources, external expertise and
networks. The type and source of support that is most likely to be beneficial depends on a range of
variables, including an individual’s stage of development in any of the Skill Areas. For example, an
Advanced Beginner in a specific Skill Area may benefit from a combination of clear guidelines, close
supervision and some specified areas of autonomy, while a proficient performer is likely to become
frustrated by close supervision and limited autonomy, but will be highly motivated, and extend their skills
when given challenges and opportunities to work closely with, and receive coaching from, an expert
performer in that Skill Area.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 12
Level of autonomy
Autonomy can encompass choices about what to do, when to do it, how to do it and who to do
it with, and has been identified as a key factor in motivation to learn. It may be linked to the
degree of responsibility and accountability an individual takes, or is given, for outcomes. It
can also impact on the extent to which an individual is able to demonstrate the full extent of
skills such as creativity, flexibility, problem-solving and decision making. Therefore providing
opportunities to make choices and reflect on their effectiveness can assist an individual to
develop new skills and understandings. However, while individuals at any stage of development
may benefit from some form of autonomy, the appropriate nature and degree of autonomy
depends on the stage of performance. For example, novices and advanced beginners need
clear structures, guidelines and high support with clearly defined areas of autonomy whereas
proficient and expert performers benefit from a high degree of autonomy.
Degree of motivation
Motivation may be intrinsic (internally driven) or extrinsic (externally driven). Extrinsic
motivation is driven by an individual’s awareness of external rewards and potential adverse
consequences. Intrinsic motivation is influenced by an individual’s own areas of interest and by
their perception of whether something matters. Intrinsic motivation to develop in a particular
Skill Area will therefore be stronger when an individual can see how this will assist in achieving
something they value or where they perceive that performance in the Skill Area itself is
important in its own right.
Self-belief and resilience
The belief that one can perform a task or further develop a skill, and the capacity to be resilient
when faced with challenges, strongly influence the ways in which individuals perform and
further develop their skills and knowledge. Individuals with high self-belief and resilience
are more likely to look forward to, and be successful in work performance, and this in turn
contributes to increased self-belief and resilience, and the desire to take on new challenges
and improve skills further. Self belief and resilience also affect an individual’s empathy and
sensitivity to others, ability to cope under pressure and to deal with work-related politics.
Cultural and value-based factors
Workplace culture and values underpin the types of attitudes and attributes valued in work
contexts, such as enthusiasm, initiative and commitment. They can also support or inhibit
the creation of an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, creativity and innovation.
Workplace culture and values can be explicit, such as those promoted in codes of conduct
or workplace policies, or implicit in the accepted behaviour, reward systems and power
structures of the workplace.
Individuals’ values and cultural background affect the attitudes they bring with them to work,
as well as their ability to understand and operate within the culture of a workplace.
The culture and values of both the individual and the work situation affect the ability of an
individual to demonstrate and develop the behaviours required for success in work, and will
influence expectations about the nature of specific Core Skills for Work, e.g. accepted ways of
interacting, communicating and managing conflict in the work context.
External factors
Circumstances outside of the work context may have a significant influence on individuals’
ability to successfully participate in work, their work performance overall and/or their capacity
to develop and apply Core Skills for Work. External factors include health, transport, housing
arrangements, family responsibilities, social networks and other personal circumstances. They
also include broader environmental factors such as the economic climate and labour market
conditions.
Table 4. INFLUENCING FACTORS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 13
USING THE CSFW
The Performance Features
The detailed Performance Features describe the kinds of skills, knowledge and understandings that an
individual might demonstrate when they are operating at a particular Stage of Performance in a particular
Skill Area. They can be used to identify what stage an individual is at in their development at a particular point
in time and in a particular context. This provides a basis for:
■
■ articulating and building on an individual’s current strengths
■
■ focusing learning and development activities on any gaps in skills, knowledge or understanding
■
■ providing a guide as to what individuals might do to continue their development in particular Skill
Areas
■
■ identifying the nature and degree of support required, and the types of practical experience and
challenges that might facilitate further learning and development
■
■ developing shared and realistic expectations about the appropriate Stage of Performance for an
individual in a particular context and timeframe.
As the CSfW aims to be applicable across a broad range of diverse contexts, the Performance Features
are deliberately generic. However, they can be customised for use in particular contexts by adding
specific examples of what performance might look like in that context, or by changing the language of the
Performance Features themselves. For example, one of the Performance Features from Skill Area 1b, work
with roles, rights and protocols, says “Understands how own role meshes with others and contributes to
broader work goals”. Customising it for a particular context might involve specifying what the ‘others’ are (e.g.
other roles in their organisation, or in their project team) and what the ‘broader work goals’ relate to (e.g. to
their organisation, or to their field). A diagnostic tool might then also describe how they might demonstrate
their understanding within the context (e.g. explain, identify, describe or do).
The Performance Features can also be used to inform the design of learning products (such as programs,
curriculum, learning resources and diagnostic and self-assessment tools) and processes.
The Influencing Factors
Influencing Factors such as ‘nature and degree of support’, ‘complexity of tasks’ and ‘level of autonomy’
impact on performance, and play an important role in facilitating or inhibiting learning and development, as do
opportunities for practice and reflection and for new experiences and challenges.
For example, a novice in Skill Area 1b, Recognise and respond to protocols, ‘Working with roles, rights and
protocols’ who wishes to progress to advanced beginner in this Skills Area, may benefit from:
■
■ opportunities for greater autonomy in decision-making in relation to some aspects of tasks
■
■ opportunities to take on slightly more challenging tasks, with support available for questions or
problems that might arise
■
■ guidance in identifying and understanding implicit aspects of protocols, or to reflect on an
experience when explicit protocols weren’t met
■
■ a specific training intervention to increase understanding of legal rights and responsibilities.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 14
The Influencing Factors also provide a potential focus for specific learning and development activities and
tools. For example, they could be used as a basis for developing activities and tools:
■
■ to assist individuals to understand the cultural and value-based factors that may affect their work
choices, to identify external factors that might need to be addressed in order to gain and maintain
work, or to strengthen their self-belief and resilience
■
■ to assist employers, trainers, educators and those who work with job seekers in identifying factors
within their control that may be having a positive or negative impact on an individual’s capacity to
develop and demonstrate particular skills (e.g. nature and degree of support) and in considering
the type and nature of tasks that may be appropriate for an individual to undertake at a particular
stage of performance (e.g. level of complexity, level of autonomy).
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 15
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLES
The Performance Features tables describe the kinds of things that someone knows, understands and can do
at each stage of the five stages of performance.
The descriptors for each of the ten Skill Areas are grouped together under Focus Areas specific to that Skill
Area.
A definition of the Skill Area and list of key terms and concepts are provided prior to each Performance
Features table.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 16
1A. MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE
Definition:
This Skill Area is about managing decisions throughout life about how, when and where to work. It involves the
capacity to identify work and career options, to gain work or career advancement, and to undertake learning
appropriate to work needs and goals.
Key terms and concepts:
Work – is activity involving mental and/or physical effort that is directed towards a specific purpose.
Work options – may relate to particular industries, fields or occupations, may be paid or unpaid and may
be conducted under any type of work arrangement, including self- employment, casual, part or full-time
employment, flexible or remote.
Work life – refers to decisions regarding the conditions under which a person works, such as role,
responsibilities, hours, remuneration and other benefits, location, travel. A person’s range of choices may be
enhanced or restricted at any point in time by a range of factors.
Career – is the sequence and variety of occupations, including paid and unpaid work, which a person
undertakes throughout a lifetime. Traditionally, the term was associated with paid employment and was
likely to refer to a single occupation. However, now the term ‘career’ is seen as a continuous lifelong process
involving work choices and associated learning that may cross occupations and draw on skills and knowledge
developed in paid or voluntary work, or through family and community involvement and leisure activities.
Career Development – is an explicit process involving the decisions individuals make as they attempt to shape
their work lives. It is a unique process for each individual, involving choices about occupations, roles, tasks
and associated learning, sometimes with a specific goal in mind, and other times in response to unpredicted,
unplanned events or chance encounters. It may involve the traditional concept of moving ‘up’ through a
hierarchy of better paid and/or influential roles, but also decisions about which tasks to take on within a role
or whether to move ‘sideways’ or ‘down’ in order to satisfy personal interests and needs, gain experience and
develop or demonstrate expertise.
Factors influencing career and work life decisions – may include personal interests, values, goals and
expectations, occupational or organisational goals, requirements and expectations, family, culture,
community, school, socioeconomic circumstances, geographic location, the labour market, task or
organisational arrangements such as child care availability, work from home options.
Techniques/strategies for seeking and applying for work – might include verbal or written enquiries, monitoring
job vacancies and industry developments, accessing online job sites, approaching employment agencies,
using written applications, completing job interviews, creating a professional online profile, establishing
and using contacts and networks, using formal online channels such as professional networking sites, and
informal channels such as social media sites and blogs.
Learning – includes all types of formal, non-formal and informal learning relevant to gaining, keeping and
improving performance in a job. It includes structured education and training, on-the-job learning such as
mentoring and job rotations, learning that occurs through reading, observation, practice and reflection within
a work context or in non work settings, such as engagement in volunteer organisations and community
activities.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 17
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Capable
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Proficient
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Expert
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
Identify
work
options
Begins
to
recognise
some
personal
skills,
interests
and
preferences
May
take
some
steps
to
access
information
and
support
in
making
career
and
work
decisions
With
assistance,
identifies
a
limited
range
of
work
options
directly
related
to
present
position
or
interests,
or
suitable
to
meet
immediate
needs
With
assistance,
identifies
any
specific
qualifications,
experience
and/or
skills
needed
and
with
encouragement,
may
take
up
formal
training
in
a
relevant
area
or
take
up
a
volunteer
position
to
gain
necessary
experience
With
assistance,
identifies
barriers
to
entry
into
chosen
area
and
some
strategies
to
address
these
With
encouragement,
may
seek
formal
training
where
required
Begins
to
develop
some
insights
into
personal
goals,
preferences
and
aptitudes
relevant
to
work,
based
on
some
practical
experience
Targets
some
specific
occupations
and
work
options,
and
takes
some
steps
to
identify
required
qualifications,
skills
and
experience
Identifies
and
finds
ways
to
address
some
factors
that
may
be
acting
as
barriers
to
gaining
work
and
developing
career
Seeks
advice
and
guidance
when
unsure
about
what
to
do
next
or
how
to
go
about
it
Draws
on
past
experience
to
identify
preferences,
skills
and
aptitudes
and
preferred
occupation
or
work
roles
Attempts
to
take
control
of
factors
influencing
personal
career
and
work
life
decisions
Uses
a
systematic
process
for
developing
career,
identifying
and
researching
employment
options
and
associated
skill
and
qualification
requirements
Develops
career
plans,
identifies
pathways,
and
takes
some
steps
to
address
immediate
barriers
and
skill
gaps
that
are
within
own
control
Recognises
the
value
of
advice,
and
seeks
assistance
for
on-going
career
planning
and
development
Begins
to
broaden
areas
of
interest
and
focus,
seeking
new
challenges
and
recognising
that
expertise
can
be
adapted
and
applied
in
diverse
contexts
Recognises
the
complexity
of
factors
influencing
career
decisions
and
career
development
e.g.
changes
in
life
roles
and
goals,
unpredicted
events
Regularly
reviews
current
situation
and
future
career
and
work
options,
developing
strategies
to
address
some
factors
that
may
limit
choices,
and
accepting
those
that
may
be
outside
own
control
at
a
particular
point
in
time
May
intuitively
identify
a
new
opportunity,
then
seek
advice
from
trusted
advisors
before
making
a
decision
Keeps
abreast
of
trends
and
issues,
appreciating
that
the
world
of
work
is
dynamic,
with
changing
needs
and
priorities,
and
that
career
development
is
not
a
linear
process
that
can
be
closely
controlled
Operates
from
a
broad,
general
career
strategy
reflecting
a
clear
sense
of
personal
values,
interests,
goals
and
priorities,
challenging
and
revising
career
plans
in
response
to
actual
or
potential
contextual
and
personal
changes
Explores
the
potential
to
adjust
own
expectations,
skills
and
knowledge
to
suit
a
role,
or
may
develop
a
new
role
suited
to
expertise
e.g.
launch
a
new
venture
May
act
intuitively
to
take
advantage
of
a
new
option
or
adapt
to
unpredicted
events
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 18
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Capable
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Proficient
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Expert
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
Gain
work
With
assistance,
uses
a
limited
set
of
strategies
for
identifying
and
applying
for
jobs
e.g.
Jobsguide,
career
counsellor,
simple
resume
template
Identifies
some
specific
expectations
associated
with
particular
job
(e.g.
appropriate
personal
presentation,
skill
set)
and
may
seek
assistance
to
address
these
Independently
uses
a
small
range
of
strategies
for
seeking
work
or
career
advancement
Takes
some
steps
to
describe
own
skills,
knowledge
and
experience
in
terms
that
address
specific
job
criteria
and
considers
how
to
present
self
appropriately
Uses
a
range
of
strategies
and
resources
when
identifying
and
applying
for
a
new
role
Describes
skills,
knowledge
and
experience
in
relation
to
stated
job
requirements
Takes
some
steps
to
find
out
more
about
a
potential
position
and
plans
how
to
make
a
positive
impression
Identifies
and
uses
a
broad
range
of
strategies
and
resources
to
find
and
gain
work
and
is
beginning
to
utilise
the
power
of
personal
contacts
Researches
potential
work
options
in
order
to
focus
on
key
requirements,
select
relevant
examples
of
past
experience
and
maximise
the
impact
of
personal
presentation
Applies
and
adapts
a
wide
range
of
strategies
and
resources
to
identify
and
gain
work,
particularly
through
networks
and
contacts
Tailors
approaches
and
presentations
to
potential
clients
or
employers
to
illustrate
a
strong
understanding
of
and
match
with
the
nature
and
requirements
of
the
role
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 19
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Capable
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
A
Proficient
performer
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
An
Expert
in
managing
career
and
work
life:
Develop
relevant
skills
and
knowledge
Within
a
job
role,
may
need
encouragement
to
ask
for
additional
assistance
and
guidance
Participates
in
formal
training
requirements
and
skill
development
opportunities
as
required
by
others
May
seek
new
learning
opportunities
Takes
steps
to
develop
skills,
obtain
qualifications
and/or
experience
relevant
to
current
or
desired
work
role
With
encouragement,
may
seek
feedback
on
work
performance
from
a
trusted
source
Develops
skills
and
knowledge
related
to
current
role
through
sharing
and
reflecting
on
practical
experience
and
feedback
and
through
formal
training
Begins
to
recognise
the
importance
of
on-going
learning
and
may
initiate
and
implement
a
formal
learning
plan
aligned
with
career
goals,
or
utilise
established
work
based
programs
May
begin
to
use
reflection
on
experience
as
a
way
of
identifying
transferable
principles
and
concepts
May
actively
seek
feedback
as
a
source
of
insight
into
strengths
and
areas
for
improvement
Recognises
the
importance
of
developing
both
technical
and
non-
technical
skills
and
of
learning
from
feedback
and
self-reflection
Formally
reflects
on
performance
as
an
integral
part
of
own
development
e.g.
through
keeping
a
journal,
sharing
with
peers,
coaching
or
mentoring
sessions
and
feedback
from
others
Identifies
transferable
principles
and
concepts
Sets
own
learning
challenges,
using
formal
and
informal
opportunities
to
develop
knowledge,
skills
and
insight
Treats
every
activity
as
a
source
of
insights
and
reflects
on
performance
as
an
integral
part
of
work
life,
using
a
range
of
formal
and
informal
processes
Actively
seeks
feedback
from
a
wide
range
of
sources
Identifies
innovative
ways
of
developing
and
sharing
skills
and
knowledge
with
others
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 20
1B. WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS
Definition:
This Skill Area is about understanding work roles and workplace rights and expectations. It involves the
capacity to identify and manage responsibilities, recognise and respond to legal rights and responsibilities,
and to recognise and respond to expectations and accepted practices of work situations.
Key terms and concepts:
Role – refers not only to a group of tasks and responsibilities related to a particular position in a work
situation, but also the sense of purpose and patterns of behaviour that a person brings to it. For example, a
person might have a job description that stipulates that they are responsible for a series of tasks, but they
may also see themselves as playing a leadership role, which involves behaving in certain ways.
Responsibilities – refers to the duties associated with a work role and the degree of autonomy to determine
what is done, with whom, by when and by what means.
Legal rights and responsibilities – as stipulated in legislation and regulations related to conditions of
employment, equal opportunity and discrimination, safe work practices etc.
Protocols – the rules, procedures, common practices or expectations governing behaviour in a work situation.
Protocols may be explicit, such as those detailed in policy and procedure manuals, or implicit, such those
arising from the cultures and customs of different work contexts.
Sources of support – may include supervisors, peers, work colleagues, policy and procedure manuals, training
and development activities, online and external information sources, external expertise and networks.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 21
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Expert
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
Work
with
roles
and
responsibilities
May
need
guidance
to
identify
the
tasks
and
responsibilities
associated
with
own
role
Follows
instructions
to
complete
a
limited
set
of
well-defined
tasks
that
may
involve
some
limited
and
clearly
defined
areas
of
personal
responsibility
Attempts
to
follow
directions
on
the
scope
of
responsibility
within
the
role
and
begins
to
recognise
when
to
involve
others
e.g.
supervisor
Understands
main
tasks,
responsibilities
and
boundaries
of
own
role
May
take
some
responsibility
for
decisions
regarding
when
and
how
to
complete
tasks,
co-ordinate
with
or
delegate
to
others
Understands
the
nature
and
purpose
of
own
role
and
associated
responsibilities,
and
how
it
contributes
to
the
work
of
others
in
the
immediate
work
context
Takes
responsibility
for
decisions
about
when
and
how
to
complete
tasks
and
coordinate
with
others
Feels
personal
ownership
of
outcomes
Understands
how
own
role
meshes
with
others
and
contributes
to
broader
work
goals
Works
independently
and
collectively
within
broad
parameters,
with
a
strong
sense
of
responsibility
and
ownership
of
goals,
plans,
decisions
and
outcomes
May
reflect
on
designation
of
roles
and
responsibilities
and
identify
changes
that
would
improve
collective
outcomes
Considers
own
role
in
terms
of
its
contribution
to
broader
goals
of
the
work
environment
(eg.
goals
of
an
organisation
or
a
field/industry)
and
adapts
and
renegotiates
role
and
responsibilities
when
this
has
the
potential
to
increase
effectiveness
Is
highly
autonomous,
taking
responsibility
and
ownership
for
most
or
all
aspects
of
own
work,
intuitively
recognising
and
managing
factors
that
may
affect
achievement
of
outcomes
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 22
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Expert
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
Operate
within
legal
rights
and
responsibilities
With
guidance,
identifies
main
legal
rights
and
responsibilities
and
some
practical
implications
for
own
role,
e.g.
health
and
safety
requirements,
award
agreement
May
need
encouragement
to
seek
support
if
problems
arise
Understands
own
rights
in
the
immediate
work
context
Takes
some
personal
responsibility
for
adherence
to
legal
and
regulatory
requirements
and
seeks
clarification
or
other
assistance
when
required
Understands
own
rights
and
raises
issues
if
these
are
not
respected
Appreciates
the
implications
of
legal
and
regulatory
responsibilities
related
to
own
work,
and
is
beginning
to
recognise
some
general
legal
principles
applicable
across
work
contexts
Takes
personal
responsibility
for
adherence
to
legal/regulatory
responsibilities
relevant
to
own
work
context,
and
draws
attention
to
any
issues
that
may
affect
self
or
others
Understands
own
legal
rights
and
responsibilities
and
is
extending
understanding
of
general
legal
principles
applicable
across
work
contexts
Keeps
up
to
date
on
changes
to
legislation
or
regulations
relevant
to
own
rights
and
responsibilities
and
considers
implications
of
these
when
negotiating,
planning
and
undertaking
work
May
recognise
problems
that
have
the
potential
to
become
legal
issues
and
takes
steps
to
address
them
before
they
escalate
Monitors
adherence
to
legal
and
regulatory
rights
and
responsibilities
for
self
and
possibly
others
May
develop
and
implement
strategies
to
raise
awareness
and
change
behaviours
that
might
undermine
rights
and
responsibilities
e.g.
ways
of
achieving
equal
opportunity,
improving
safety
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 23
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
An
Expert
in
working
with
roles,
rights
and
protocols:
Recognise
and
respond
to
protocols
Begins
to
recognises
that
different
organisations
have
expectations
and
rules
related
to
how
work
is
to
be
done
and
to
personal
conduct
Focuses
on
meeting
a
limited
range
of
explicit
protocols
e.g.
attendance,
dress
code,
safety
May
need
encouragement
to
ask
for
clarification
when
unsure
of
what
to
do
Generally
follows
the
explicit
protocols
immediately
related
to
role
Begins
to
recognise
implicit
expectations
and
takes
some
steps
to
meet
these
Recognises
and
follows
explicit
and
implicit
protocols
and
meets
expectations
associated
with
own
role
Seeks
advice
about
procedures
and
expectations
when
taking
on
new
tasks
or
roles
Recognises
and
responds
to
both
explicit
and
implicit
protocols
within
familiar
work
contexts
and
appreciates
the
importance
of
identifying
and
responding
to
protocols
in
new
situations
May
seek
to
make
implicit
protocols
and
expectations
more
explicit,
and
may
challenge
those
that
appear
to
work
against
effective
outcomes,
or
do
not
reflect
stated
values
Recognises
protocols
that
must
be
respected
and
maintained,
and
identifies
those
that
may
no
longer
be
serving
a
useful
purpose
Knows
when
and
how
to
challenge
some
protocols
to
better
align
with
organisational
or
personal
goals
and
values
and
achieve
outcomes
more
efficiently
and
effectively
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 24
2A. COMMUNICATE FOR WORK
Definition:
This Skill Area is about using communication skills to achieve work outcomes. It involves the capacity to
recognise communication protocols and etiquette, use communication systems and processes, understand
messages and get messages across to others.
Key terms and concepts:
Language – in its broadest sense, language involves the words, verbal structures and gestures used to convey
or understand meaning. It also includes visual communication skills, including Australian Sign Language
(AUSLAN).
Communication practices and protocols – refer to the explicit and implicit ‘rules’ or conventions that govern
communication in different settings and with different people. For example, there may be protocols
surrounding what and how to communicate with those in a position of authority, or with people from a
particular cultural background. There may also be implicit social conventions about the kind of language that
is expected and considered acceptable in different circumstances. These practices and protocols have a strong
influence on the choices an individual makes when communicating such as choice of vocabulary, tone, non-
verbal behaviour. They may also influence how others interpret those choices e.g. as interested, respectful,
rude, persuasive, assertive, aggressive.
Message – is used broadly to refer to any work related unit of communication, and may be oral, written or
visual. Messages contain information, news, advice, requests etc and may be captured in many different ways
e.g. written documents, plans, verbal instructions, diagrams. Visual and sensory messages are transmitted
and received through actions such as a raised eyebrow, a smile or a handshake. Messages may carry both
explicit and implicit meanings, themes and ideas, and may be interpreted in different ways by different people.
Communication channel – the route of a message through one or more of three broad media – written, spoken
and non verbal e.g. face to face interaction, print or broadcast (electronic) media.
Mode – is the choice of communication method e.g. spoken, written, visual; formal, informal.
Vocational vocabulary – refers to the language of a particular field of work. This includes specific technical
terminology, but also words and phrases that carry specific meanings within that field e.g. the term ‘cookie’
carries a different meaning for a lighting rigger, a baker and an IT worker.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 25
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Capable
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Proficient
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Expert
in
communicating
for
work:
Respond
to
communication
systems,
practices
and
protocols
Attempts
to
follow
instructions
regarding
what
to
communicate,
with
whom
and
how
Demonstrates
some
awareness
of
the
differences
between
work
related
and
social
communication
and
some
understanding
of
accepted
communication
conventions
in
a
work
context
Generally
understands
what
to
communicate,
with
whom
and
how
in
highly
familiar,
routine
work
situations
Identifies,
and
takes
steps
to
follow,
accepted
communication
practices
and
protocols
in
immediate
work
context
e.g.
ways
of
communicating
with
those
in
authority
Understands
what
to
communicate,
with
whom
and
how
in
routine
work
situations,
and
is
learning
how
to
identify
the
requirements
of
less
familiar
contexts
Selects
and
uses
the
appropriate
conventions
and
protocols
when
communicating
in
a
range
of
familiar
work
contexts
Recognises
and
applies
the
protocols
governing
what
to
communicate,
with
whom
and
how
in
a
range
of
work
contexts
Seeks
opportunities
to
extend
and
apply
understanding
beyond
own
role,
and
has
strategies
for
determining
the
requirements
of
new
situations
Begins
to
recognise
the
implications
of
implicit
rules
that
govern
who
communicates
with
whom,
how
and
for
what
purpose,
including
those
associated
with
power
and
status
Selects
appropriate
communication
protocols
and
conventions
in
a
broad
range
of
work
contexts,
with
a
growing
awareness
of
the
sometimes
subtle
impacts
of
choices
made
Demonstrates
a
finely
nuanced
understanding
of
what
to
communicate,
with
whom
and
how
in
a
broad
range
of
work
contexts
Is
highly
sensitive
to
the
impact
of
explicit
and
implicit
communication
practices
and
protocols,
and
pays
close
attention
to
the
subtleties
of
every
situation
Masterfully
manipulates
communication
systems,
processes
and
practices,
selecting,
using
and
adapting
them
for
maximum
impact
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 26
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Capable
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Proficient
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Expert
in
communicating
for
work:
Speak
and
listen
Observes,
listens
and,
with
encouragement,
may
contribute
to
conversations
directly
relevant
to
own
role
Begins
to
use
appropriate
language,
tone
and
non-verbal
behaviours
during
interactions
in
the
immediate
work
context
May
use
simple
‘scripts’
developed
by
others
for
routine
task
related
interactions
e.g.
greeting
a
client,
answering
a
phone
Participates
in
routine
conversations
directly
relevant
to
role,
responding
and
contributing
in
ways
that
are
generally
appropriate
in
the
context
Generally
uses
language,
tone
and
non-
verbal
behaviours
considered
appropriate
in
the
context
May
begin
to
personalise
approaches
to
routine
task
related
interactions
Initiates
and
contributes
to
a
range
of
formal
and
informal
conversations
relevant
to
role,
responding,
explaining,
clarifying
and
expanding
on
ideas
and
information
as
required
Listens
for
required
information
and
asks
clarifying
questions
Pays
some
attention
to
the
needs
and
responses
of
other
participants,
making
some
adjustments
to
language,
vocabulary,
tone
and
style
as
required
Personalises
approaches
to
routine
task
related
interactions
Participates
in
complex
formal
and
informal
conversations
relevant
to
own
role,
initiating
and
taking
the
lead
where
appropriate
Uses
active
listening,
observational
and
questioning
techniques
in
order
to
identify
different
perspectives
and
confirm,
clarify
or
revise
understanding
Adapts
content,
emphasis,
tone,
language,
vocabulary
and
non-verbal
behaviours
as
required
to
build
rapport
or
repair
misunderstanding
Initiates,
participates
and/or
takes
the
lead
in
complex
conversations,
establishing
rapport,
encouraging
contributions,
eliciting
ideas
and
information,
clarifying,
summarising
and
building
constructively
on
the
input
of
others
Uses
highly
developed
listening,
observational
and
questioning
skills
to
understand
others’
perspectives
and
clarify,
explore,
extend
and
repair
meaning
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 27
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Capable
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Proficient
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Expert
in
communicating
for
work:
Understand,
interpret
and
act
Identifies
and
responds
to
some
relevant
information
from
communications
associated
with
familiar
aspects
of
role
e.g.
requests,
directions
With
encouragement,
may
ask
questions
to
seek
information
or
clarify
instructions
Identifies
the
main
information
from
oral
and
written
communication,
and
generally
responds
appropriately
Asks
some
questions
to
clarify
understanding,
or
seek
further
information
Responds
appropriately
to
routine
requests
for
information
Recognises
the
purpose
of
various
communications
directly
relevant
to
own
role
Accurately
identifies
relevant
information
from
routine
written
and
oral
messages
and
exchanges
and
from
written
documents
Seeks
clarification
when
meanings
and
intended
actions
are
obviously
open
to
interpretation
Provides
relevant
information
to
others
as
required
Considers
the
purpose
and
possible
actions
to
be
taken
as
a
result
of
any
work
related
communication
Identifies
relevant
information
and
ideas
from
a
range
of
messages
and
oral
and
written
exchanges,
paying
some
attention
to
the
meanings
attached
to
the
choice
of
form,
channel
and
wording
Begins
to
recognise
how
personal,
social
and
cultural
factors
may
influence
people’s
understanding
of
any
communication,
and
is
learning
to
question
own
interpretation
and
seek
clarification
where
required
Clarifies
the
purpose
and
possible
actions
to
be
taken
as
a
result
of
any
work
related
communication,
recognising
that
effective
communication
is
always
a
means
to
an
end
Recognises
that
all
communication
is
an
interactive
process
of
meaning
making,
and
that
all
exchanges
carry
explicit
and
implicit
meanings
whose
interpretation
is
influenced
by
the
perceptions
of
those
involved,
and
by
a
complex
array
of
social
and
cultural
factors
Pays
close
attention
to
understanding
explicit
and
hidden
meanings,
routinely
seeking
clarification
where
misinterpretation
might
create
issues
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 28
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Capable
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
A
Proficient
performer
in
communicating
for
work:
An
Expert
in
communicating
for
work:
Get
the
message
across
Begins
to
use
some
routine
forms
of
written
communication
relevant
to
immediate
work
role
with
a
limited
awareness
of
requirements
and
expectations
e.g.
main
information
required
May
follow
scripts
or
use
templates
for
routine
communication
tasks
e.g.
standard
email
formats,
incident
reports
Is
aware
that
some
language
used
in
the
workplace
is
specific
to
the
job
Selects
from
small
range
of
communication
modes,
forms
and
channels
to
meet
a
specific
purpose
within
the
immediate
work
environment
Constructs
a
message
with
some
understanding
of
purpose,
audience
needs
and
expectations,
Generally
uses
appropriate
vocabulary,
including
technical
language
directly
relevant
to
role
Selects
the
appropriate
form,
channel
and
mode
of
communication
for
a
specific
purpose
relevant
to
own
role
Takes
some
steps
to
vary
content,
structure,
style,
tone
and
vocabulary
to
suit
the
needs
of
familiar
audiences
and/or
to
achieve
a
desired
outcome
e.g.
to
persuade,
to
gain
assistance
Uses
appropriate
vocabulary,
including
technical
language
relevant
to
role
and
context
Recognises
the
importance
of
taking
audience,
purpose
and
contextual
factors
into
account
when
making
decisions
about
what
to
communicate,
with
whom,
why
and
how
Actively
identifies
the
requirements
of
important
communication
exchanges,
selecting
appropriate
channels,
format,
tone
and
content
to
suit
purpose
and
audience
and
monitoring
impact
Demonstrates
an
increasing
capacity
to
manipulate
oral,
visual
and/or
written
formats
to
achieve
a
specific
purpose
(e.g.
to
gain
funding,
convey
an
idea,
present
a
plan),
with
full
command
of
vocabulary
relevant
to
the
context
Demonstrates
sophisticated
control
over
oral,
visual
and/
or
written
formats,
drawing
on
a
diverse
range
of
communication
practices
to
achieve
goals
Intuitively
tailors
every
communication
to
achieve
its
purpose,
demonstrating
a
sophisticated
understanding
of
the
needs,
interests,
issues
and
priorities
of
each
audience
Pays
close
attention
to
the
selection
of
aspects
such
as
mode,
channel
and
form,
recognising
the
ways
in
which
they
may
influence
interpretation
of
a
message
and
appreciating
the
subtleties
of
each
e.g.
understands
how
choice
of
the
communication
form
itself
communicates
something,
or
that
staying
silent
can
sometimes
be
the
most
effective
option
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 29
2B. CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS
Definition:
This Skill Area is about building the work-related relationships needed to achieve an outcome within a
workgroup, or achieve goals through team based collaborations. It involves the capacity to understand others
and build rapport, which in turn involves understanding one’s own values, goals, expectations and emotions,
and making choices about regulating one’s own behaviour, taking the needs of others, and the often implicit
social rules of the context, into account.
Key terms and concepts:
Interacting – acting towards others or with others in order to get the work done. The focus in the CSfW is on
social and work related interactions involving direct contact with people within a work context generally and
within a workgroup or team specifically.
Co-operate – to assist someone or comply with their requests.
Collaborate – to work jointly towards the same end.
Interpersonal skills – the capacity to use specific forms of behaviour in face-to-face or virtual interactions, to
bring about a desired state of affairs.
Rapport – a relationship of mutual understanding and trust in which those involved feel comfortable and
accepted.
Empathy – the capacity to identify with, and understand, another’s situation, feelings, and motives.
Workgroup – a group of people with individual roles, responsibilities, tasks and accountability who come
together to share information and perspectives and who may collaborate to achieve outcomes
Team – a highly sophisticated form of workgroup made up of a small number of people with complementary
knowledge and skills who are committed to a common purpose and approach for which they hold themselves
mutually accountable. An effective team focuses explicitly on building and maintaining understanding and
trust, and designs and manages the processes that support effective interaction.
Working relationship – a relationship with a colleague, employer or employee. In a positive working relationship,
those involved are on good terms and usually feel some personal compatibility based on values, beliefs and
interests. In an effective working relationship, those involved understand and respect each other’s values,
perspectives and skills, and work together to achieve outcomes without necessarily feeling closely compatible
on a personal level.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 30
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Capable
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Proficient
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Expert
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
Understand
self
With
assistance,
begins
to
recognise
some
personal
strengths
and
challenges
associated
with
interacting
with
others
in
work
contexts
With
guidance,
is
becoming
aware
of
some
of
the
impacts
of
own
emotions
and
behaviours
on
others
in
a
work
setting
With
assistance,
begins
to
recognise
how
personal
values
and
beliefs
align
with,
or
differ
from
those
of
others
in
specific
work
contexts
Recognises
some
personal
strengths
and
challenges
associated
with
interacting
with
others
in
work
contexts
Begins
to
recognise
some
ways
in
which
own
emotions
may
impact
on
personal
behaviour
and
attempts
to
manage
responses
to
particular
situations
and
people
Is
developing
an
awareness
of
the
impact
of
own
emotions
and
behaviours
on
others
Recognises
how
personal
values
and
beliefs
align
with,
or
differ
from
those
of
others
in
specific
work
contexts
and
ways
in
which
this
can
affect
own
responses
to
others
Recognises
some
strengths
and
weaknesses
of
own
interpersonal
skills
in
work
contexts
and
may
identify
one
or
more
areas
to
develop
Recognises
some
triggers
for
specific
emotions
and
ways
in
which
these
emotions
are
reflected
in
behaviour,
and
uses
a
small
set
of
strategies
to
moderate
aspects
that
may
cause
problems
for
others
May
seek
guidance
and
training
in
specific
areas
Reflects
on
personal
values,
beliefs
and
assumptions
and
considers
how
these
might
be
perceived
by
others
Identifies
strengths
and
limitations
of
own
interpersonal
skills
and
addresses
areas
that
would
benefit
from
further
development
Begins
to
seek
feedback
about
own
behaviour
from
others,
and
is
learning
how
to
moderate
own
reactions
when
this
feedback
challenges
self
perceptions
Identifies
key
triggers
for
specific
emotions
and
behaviours,
and
uses
a
range
of
strategies
to
moderate
responses
that
cause
unnecessary
problems
for
others
Pays
close
attention
to
those
with
highly
developed
interpersonal
skills,
consciously
learning
from
what
they
say,
how
they
say
it
and
what
they
do
when
interacting
with
others,
particularly
in
potentially
difficult
situations
Sets
time
aside
for
self
reflection,
recognising
personal
strengths
and
limitations
and
exploring
beliefs
and
assumptions
about
own
behaviour
and
that
of
others
Identifies
and
addresses
areas
of
need,
monitoring
progress
by
observing
the
reactions
of
others
and
seeking
explicit
feedback
Recognises
that
responses
to
events
and
other
peoples
are
a
choice
and
actively
monitors
and
seeks
to
regulate
own
reactions,
particularly
where
these
involve
anger,
fear
and
frustration
Seeks
expert
advice
and
skills
training
where
required
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 31
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Capable
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Proficient
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Expert
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
Build
rapport
With
encouragement,
attempts
to
establish
a
connection
with
one
or
two
people
in
immediate
work
context
e.g.
may
smile,
introduce
self
to
immediate
peers,
respond
to
acknowledgement
from
others
May
respond
to
advice
about
accepted
ways
of
interacting
in
the
immediate
work
context
Establishes
connections
with
a
number
of
people
in
immediate
work
context,
using
some
accepted
practices
for
building
rapport
e.g.
adapts
tone,
content
and
language
to
reflect
that
used
by
others
Uses
a
range
of
strategies
to
establish
a
sense
of
connection
with
others
e.g.
looks
for
common
ground,
makes
casual
conversation
around
a
topic
of
interest
to
the
other
party
Pays
attention
to
the
behaviour
of
others,
interpreting
a
broad
range
of
verbal
and
non
verbal
signals,
and
asking
some
questions
to
help
understand
others’
thoughts
and
feelings
Begins
to
recognise
and
accommodate
individual
differences
of
perspective
and
priority
Monitors
responses
from
others,
and
may
adjust
aspects
of
own
behaviour
Recognises
the
importance
of
building
rapport
in
order
to
establish
effective
working
relationships
Looks
for
ways
of
establishing
connections
and
building
genuine
understanding
with
a
diverse
range
of
people
e.g.
makes
a
habit
of
remembering
names
and
other
personal
details,
shares
own
personal
information
Recognises
and
values
individual
differences,
seeking
to
better
understand
other
perspectives
and
judging
when
it
is
appropriate
to
modify
own
behaviour
to
create
stronger
rapport
e.g.
picks
up
non-verbal
signals
that
someone
is
uncomfortable
and
changes
content,
tone,
language
or
speed
of
delivery
Invests
time
and
energy
in
building
rapport
with
others
as
an
integral
part
of
all
work
based
interactions
Draws
on
a
small
set
of
governing
principles
learnt
through
experience
e.g.
listen
more
than
talk,
genuinely
try
to
understand
what
the
situation
looks
like
to
someone
else
Uses
non
verbal
behaviour
effectively
to
put
others
at
ease,
taking
account
of
cultural
differences
where
appropriate
e.g.
mirrors
and
matches
tone
and
body
language
Acknowledges
the
needs
and
points
of
view
of
others
and
modifies
own
behaviour
where
it
will
help
to
build
rapport
without
compromising
own
core
values
and
principles
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 32
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Capable
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Proficient
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Expert
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
Cooperate
and
collaborate
continued
over
page
Responds
to
clear
requests
May
contribute
to
workgroup
processes
when
invited
to
do
so,
recognising
and
following
some
basic
conventions
of
social
interactions
e.g.
turn
taking
Identifies
one
or
two
people
to
ask
for
help
Seeks
to
cooperate
with
others
to
achieve
results
in
immediate
work
context
e.g.
complies
with
requests,
offers
assistance
with
familiar
tasks
Is
learning
to
contribute
to
specific
activities
requiring
joint
responsibility
and
accountability
Contributes
to
workgroup
discussions,
recognising
and
following
accepted
conventions
of
social
interaction
Is
beginning
to
recognise
who
best
to
go
to
when
things
are
not
working
as
expected
Cooperates
with
others
as
part
of
familiar
routine
activities,
and
contributes
to
specific
activities
requiring
joint
responsibility
and
accountability
Plays
an
active
role
in
workgroup
discussions,
paying
some
attention
to
the
perspectives
of
others
Takes
responsibility
for
meeting
commitments
to
others
e.g.
Keeps
others
informed
of
progress,
meets
agreed
deadlines,
discusses
problems
and
seeks
help
when
required
Is
learning
to
look
for
the
strengths
in
others
Recognises
and
avoids
some
of
the
behaviours
that
undermine
effective
interpersonal
and
group
interaction
e.
g.
malicious
gossip
Demonstrates
an
increasing
awareness
of
the
interplay
of
factors
involved
in
any
group
interaction
e.g.
work
and
personal
goals,
culture,
age,
gender,
expectations,
emotional
needs
and
behaviours
Seeks
to
enhance
own
performance
in
work
groups
and
teams,
recognising
that
this
requires
focused
effort
and
specific
skills
Collaborates
with
others
to
achieve
joint
outcomes,
playing
an
active
role
in
facilitating
effective
group
interaction,
influencing
direction
and
taking
a
leadership
role
on
occasion
Looks
for
the
strengths
in
others
and
finds
ways
to
work
with,
and
build
on
these,
sharing
own
knowledge
and
experience
freely
Invests
considerable
time
and
energy
in
building
and
maintaining
effective
working
relationships
within
and
beyond
immediate
work
context,
recognising
and
intuitively
responding
to
the
subtle
and
complex
mix
of
factors
at
play
in
every
interaction
Fosters
a
collaborative
culture
within
own
sphere
of
influence,
facilitating
a
sense
of
commitment
and
cohesion,
and
highlighting
and
using
the
strengths
of
those
involved
Plays
a
lead
role
in
situations
requiring
effective
collaborative,
demonstrating
high
level
influencing
skills,
focusing
and
shaping
awareness,
and
engaging
and
motivating
others,
including
those
who
are
geographically
dispersed
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 33
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Capable
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
A
Proficient
performer
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
An
Expert
in
connecting
and
working
with
others:
Cooperate
and
collaborate
continued
Shares
information
and
resources,
offers
assistance
voluntarily
and
provides
feedback
on
others’
work
when
requested
Begins
to
recognise
that
there
are
different
kinds
of
working
relationships
that
can
serve
different
purposes
Begins
to
form
connections
with
others
who
can
contribute
to
effective
work
outcomes
e.g.
Cultivates
a
small
informal
network
of
people
who
may
be
able
to
provide
advice
or
influence
the
progress
of
specific
tasks
Avoids
behaviours
that
undermine
effective
interpersonal
and
group
interaction
and
group
cohesion
e.g.
private
criticism
of
group
decisions,
breaking
a
confidence
Is
learning
to
provide
feedback
to
others
in
forms
they
can
engage
with
and
respond
to
e.g.
providing
specific
information
rather
than
blanket
positive
or
negative
statements
Begins
to
cultivate
relationships
with
people
with
the
knowledge,
skills
and
influence
to
get
things
done
or
provide
support,
building
formal
and
informal
networks
within
and
beyond
immediate
work
context
e.g.
joins
a
professional
association,
union,
or
community
of
practice
Shares
knowledge,
experience
information
and
resources
with
others
as
an
integral
part
of
work
relationships
Provides
feedback
to
others
in
forms
they
can
understand
and
use
e.g.
specific
and
actionable
Actively
builds
formal
and
informal
networks
to
include
key
people/
communities
with
expert
skills,
knowledge,
connections
and
decision
making
power
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 34
2C. RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES
Definition:
This Skill Area is about the capacity to recognise and respond to differing values, beliefs and
behaviours, to draw on diverse perspectives for work purposes and to manage conflict when it
arises.
Key terms and concepts:
Perspectives – points of view, particular attitudes towards, or ways of regarding something.
Difference – the state or condition of being dissimilar.
Diversity – exhibiting variety or difference. In work contexts, the term ‘diversity’ is used to collectively
describe differences based on gender, ethnic, sexual orientation, religious or cultural background,
age, physical ability, beliefs and personal preferences.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 35
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Capable
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Proficient
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Expert
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
Recognise
different
perspectives
Demonstrates
some
awareness
that
the
values,
beliefs
and
behaviours
of
other
people
may
differ
from
own
Recognises
some
common
cultural
barriers
to
interaction
in
the
immediate
work
context
With
support,
attempts
to
follow
some
legal
requirements
and/or
organisational
protocols
related
to
diversity
Begins
to
recognise
how
some
personal
values
and
beliefs
align
with,
or
differ
from
those
of
others
in
the
immediate
work
context,
and
may
consider
how
this
impacts
on
interactions
and
work
performance
Recognises
some
common
cultural
barriers
to
interaction
in
the
immediate
work
context,
Generally
adheres
to
legal
requirements
and
protocols
related
to
diversity
and
difference,
and
with
guidance,
may
consider
the
concepts
behind
them
Identifies
and
articulates
some
personal
values,
beliefs
and
behaviours
and
explores
the
implications
of
different
perspectives
in
work
contexts
Demonstrates
some
understanding
of
the
impact
of
cultural
background
and
personal
experience
on
own
behaviour
and
that
of
others,
and
is
beginning
to
recognise
the
benefits
of
drawing
on
different
perspectives
Observe
legal
and
organisational
requirements
and
protocols
for
responding
to
diversity
Actively
articulates
personal
values
and
beliefs,
considering
how
these
were
formed
and
how
they
influence
work
related
interactions
and
relationships
Recognises
the
value
that
different
perspectives
can
bring
to
the
work
situation,
and
seeks
to
better
understand
forms
of
diversity
relevant
to
the
work
context
(e.g.
ethnic,
religious,
gender,
age,
socio-economic)
and
their
potential
impacts
Promotes
better
understanding
of
different
values
and
beliefs,
and
may
question
practices
that
stifle
different
perspectives
or
inhibit
the
expression
of
different
values
and
practices
Seeks
to
understand
the
unique
combination
of
values,
beliefs,
knowledge,
understandings
and
perspectives
that
others
bring
to
the
work
context
Challenges
the
status
quo
if
required
to
ensure
that
diversity
is
respected
and
that
different
perspectives
are
utilised
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 36
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Capable
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Proficient
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Expert
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
Respond
to
and
utilise
diverse
perspectives
With
support,
is
beginning
to
manage
own
reactions
to
different
values,
beliefs,
ideas
and
opinions
Uses
a
limited
range
of
strategies
for
managing
own
reactions
to
different
values,
beliefs,
ideas
and
opinions
May
make
some
adjustments
to
personal
communication
style
in
recognition
of
the
values,
beliefs
and
cultural
expectations
of
others
Is
beginning
to
listen
and
ask
questions
in
order
to
better
understand
the
beliefs,
ideas
and
opinions
of
others,
particularly
when
differences
of
perspective
impact
on
work
role
Makes
some
adjustments
to
personal
communication
style
in
recognition
of
the
values,
beliefs
and
cultural
expectations
of
others
May
seek,
and
take
into
account,
some
different
perspectives
when
deciding
on
a
course
of
action
Actively
seeks
to
identify
the
perspectives
of
others
as
part
of
work
role
e.g.
asks
clarifying
questions,
tries
to
see
the
world
through
another’s
eyes
Adapts
personal
communication
style
to
show
respect
for
the
values,
beliefs
and
cultural
expectations
of
others
Routinely
seeks
broad
input
into
problem
solving
and
decision
making,
and
is
developing
specific
strategies
to
encourage
sharing
of
ideas
and
different
perspectives
Articulates
and
explores
own
and
others’
values,
beliefs
and
assumptions
as
an
integral
part
of
identifying
drivers
and
barriers
to
change,
developing
new
ideas,
addressing
problems
and
making
decisions
Intuitively
adapts
personal
communication
style
where
appropriate
to
respect
the
values,
beliefs
and
cultural
expectations
of
others
Facilitates
a
climate
in
which
others
feel
comfortable
to
identify,
explore
and
build
on
a
variety
of
perspectives
in
order
to
achieve
shared
outcomes
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 37
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Capable
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Proficient
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Expert
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
Manage
conflict
Continued
over
page
With
guidance,
may
identify
some
of
the
impacts
of
own
emotions
and
behaviours
on
others
in
a
work
setting
that
lead
to
conflict
Draws
on
a
limited
set
of
strategies
for
dealing
with
conflict
when
it
arises
e.g.
ignore,
retreat,
respond
aggressively
With
encouragement,
may
seek
support
from
peers
or
assistance
from
supervisor
when
dealing
with
conflict
With
assistance,
begins
to
recognise
some
ways
in
which
own
behaviour
may
contribute
to
conflict
in
the
immediate
work
context
Attempts
to
manage
own
responses
to
particular
situations
and
people,
and
makes
some
attempt
to
resolve
issues
that
arise
Seeks
support
from
supervisor
or
peers
if
own
efforts
fail
Acknowledges
when
own
reactions
to
different
perspectives
may
undermine
working
relationships
and
contribute
to
conflict
Recognises
some
triggers
for
specific
emotions
and
ways
in
which
these
emotions
are
reflected
in
behaviour,
and
uses
a
small
set
of
strategies
to
moderate
aspects
that
may
initiate
or
escalate
conflict
When
opinions
differ,
attempts
to
reach
agreement
with
some
consideration
of
the
perspectives
of
others
When
unable
to
resolve
a
major
conflict,
seeks
advice
and
assistance
in
accordance
with
workplace
protocols
Reflects
on
personal
reactions
to
perspectives
and
behaviours
that
may
undermine
work
relationships
and
contribute
to
conflict
Identifies
key
triggers
for
specific
emotions
and
behaviours,
and
uses
a
range
of
strategies
to
moderate
responses
that
may
initiate
or
escalate
conflict
Is
developing
strategies
for
raising
and
discussing
potentially
contentious
issues
with
others,
and
is
learning
to
resist
blaming
or
becoming
defensive
when
others
explain
their
perspective
and
feelings
Listens
closely
and
asks
questions
in
order
to
clarify
concerns
and
needs
and
identify
the
root
problem
Intuitively
recognises
potential
for
conflict
and
takes
steps
to
stop
an
issue
from
escalating
e.g.
raises
potentially
contentious
and
divisive
topics
in
a
way
that
makes
them
discussable
Seeks
to
establish
a
climate
in
which
it
is
possible
to
clarify
and
share
the
real
needs
and
issues
e.g.
Seeks
to
establish
a
shared
understanding
of
the
situation
based
on
valid
information,
articulates
assumptions,
acknowledges
own
feelings
and
respects
those
of
others,
remains
open
and
honest
without
becoming
defensive
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 38
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Capable
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
A
Proficient
performer
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
An
Expert
in
recognising
and
utilising
diverse
perspectives:
Manage
conflict
Continued
Recognises
the
importance
of
joint
ownership
of
the
process
and
outcomes
and
tries
to
identify
common
ground,
shared
goals,
and
agreement
on
the
best
course
of
action
Seeks
specialist
advice
when
required
Reflects
on
conflict
resolution
process
and
outcomes
in
order
to
improve
skills
and
understanding
Confronts
problems
quickly
and
directly,
engaging
with
other
party
to
reach
agreement
on
a
course
of
action
that
satisfies
relevant
needs
and
interests
Sees
conflict
resolution
as
a
joint
enterprise,
and
uses
a
range
of
strategies
to
facilitate
an
interdependent
approach
with
shared
responsibility
for
the
solution,
plan
of
action
and
consequences
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 39
3A. PLAN AND ORGANISE
Definition:
This Skill Area is about identifying and completing the steps needed to undertake tasks and manage
workloads. This involves the capacity to organise self and information, plan and implement tasks, and plan
and organise workloads.
Key terms and concepts:
Workload – the amount of work assigned to or expected from someone in a specified time period. Individuals
will have different degrees of input into, and control over, decisions regarding what needs to be achieved, by
when, with whom, and by what means.
Work-life balance – in its broadest sense, refers to the balance between various aspects of an individual’s
life, including work, family, friends and leisure activities. It differs from one person to the next, depending
on personal values, goals, priorities and needs at any point in time, and is subject to change in response to
changes in circumstances.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 40
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Capable
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Proficient
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Expert
in
planning
and
organising:
Plan
and
organise
workload
and
commitments
Continued
over
page
Follows
clear
simple
instructions
provided
by
others
regarding
what
to
do,
with
whom
and
by
when
With
assistance,
uses
one
or
two
strategies
to
keep
track
of
work
and
personal
commitments
e.g.
a
diary
or
notebook
With
encouragement,
may
alert
others
if
unable
to
meet
commitments
as
agreed
Plans
routine
tasks
with
familiar
goals
and
outcomes,
taking
some
limited
responsibility
for
decisions
regarding
sequencing
and
timing
May
coordinate
some
aspects
of
work
with
others
in
immediate
work
context
Uses
a
small
set
of
personal
and
organisation
based
systems
for
organising
time
and
commitments
e.g.
to
do
lists,
electronic
scheduler
When
unable
to
meet
commitments
as
agreed,
or
when
circumstances
change,
is
beginning
seek
guidance
on
setting
new
priorities
and
timeframes
Takes
responsibility
for
planning
and
organising
own
workload,
identifying
ways
of
sequencing
and
combining
elements
for
greater
efficiency,
and
considering
how
to
link
with
the
work
of
others
Organises
and
prioritises
work
and
personal
commitments,
with
some
sense
of
what
is
achievable
in
a
timeframe
Reacts
to
unplanned
events
by
adding
them
to
the
list,
and
working
longer
and
harder
to
meet
commitments
May
alert
others
and
seek
to
adjust
activities
or
deadlines
if
expectations
create
unnecessary
stress
Is
beginning
to
establish
boundaries
when
negotiating
tasks
and
workloads
with
others
Takes
responsibility
for
own
workload,
negotiating
some
key
aspects
with
others
e.g.
goals,
how
to
work,
where
to
work,
with
whom
and
by
when
Monitors
impact
of
workload
on
work
outcomes,
and
is
learning
to
recognise
and
address
workload
issues
that
may
compromise
health,
safety,
and
personal
work-life
balance
Acknowledges
the
potentially
competing
demands
of
individual
and
collective
responsibility
for
outcomes,
and
finds
ways
to
maintain
a
balance
between
own
and
others’
needs
and
those
of
the
work
context
e.g.
says
‘no’
when
required
Takes
responsibility
for
defining
key
aspects
of
own
workload,
balancing
own
needs
and
priorities
with
those
of
the
work
group
Organises
time
and
effort
around
priorities
and
results,
focusing
beyond
immediate
tasks
to
consider
aspects
such
as
building
and
maintaining
working
relationship
Monitors
workload
in
terms
of
personal
and
stakeholder
goals
and
outcomes,
adjusting
or
renegotiating
priorities
and
plans
as
required
Pays
close
attention
to
work-life
demands
and
priorities,
recognising
warning
signs
and
making
changes
to
ensure
commitments
do
not
become
unmanageable
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 41
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Capable
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Proficient
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Expert
in
planning
and
organising:
Plan
and
organise
workload
and
commitments
Continued
Recognises
personal
strengths
and
limitations
in
regard
to
prioritising
use
of
time
and
energy,
and
is
developing
some
strategies
to
improve
effectiveness
and
reduce
unnecessary
stress
Reassesses
priorities
when
circumstances
change,
and
is
learning
to
resist
knee
jerk
reactions
to
unplanned
events
Responds
flexibly
to
changing
circumstances,
maintaining
a
focus
on
goals,
avoiding
knee
jerk
reactions
to
unplanned
events
and
managing
the
assumptions
and
expectations
of
others
Plan
and
implement
tasks
Continued
over
page
Follows
pre-determined,
sequenced
plans
for
tasks
with
more
than
one
step
Begins
to
identify
and
assembles
the
resources
required
May
seek
guidance
when
plans
are
interrupted
or
resources
are
not
available
With
assistance,
determines
priorities
and
sequences
the
steps
involved
in
clearly
defined,
familiar
tasks
and
identifies
and
assembles
the
resources
required
Seeks
assistance
to
reset
priorities
following
disruptions,
or
when
resources
are
not
available
With
encouragement,
may
seek
advice
when
results
are
not
as
anticipated
Plans
a
range
of
routine,
and
some
non-routine,
tasks,
accepting
stated
goals
and
aiming
to
achieve
them
efficiently
Applies
formal
processes
when
planning
more
complex/unfamiliar
tasks,
producing
plans
with
logically
sequenced
steps,
reflecting
some
awareness
of
time
and
resource
constraints
and
the
needs
of
others
in
the
immediate
vicinity
Implements
actions
as
per
plan,
making
slight
adjustments
if
necessary,
and
addressing
some
unexpected
issues
Develops
plans
to
manage
relatively
complex,
non-routine
tasks
with
an
awareness
of
how
they
may
contribute
to
longer
term
operational
and
strategic
goals
Begins
to
recognise
the
importance
of
other
stakeholders
throughout
the
process
and
is
learning
to
clarify
goals
and
proposed
methodology
with
others,
maintain
communication
and
manage
expectations
and
understanding
Monitors
actions
against
stated
goals,
adjusting
plans
and
resources
to
cope
with
contingencies
Develops
flexible
plans
for
complex,
high
impact
activities
with
strategic
implications
that
involve
a
diverse
range
of
stakeholders
with
potentially
competing
demands
Recognises
the
critical
importance
of
clarifying,
focusing
and
aligning
goals
and
expectations,
and
may
use
the
process
to
build
ownership
of,
and
broad
commitment
to
achieving
outcomes
Uses
a
mix
of
intuitive
and
formal
processes
to
identify
key
information
and
issues,
evaluate
alternative
strategies,
anticipate
consequences
and
consider
implementation
issues
and
contingencies
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 42
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Capable
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
A
Proficient
performer
in
planning
and
organising:
An
Expert
in
planning
and
organising:
Plan
and
implement
tasks
Continued
Seeks
assistance
from
more
experienced
colleagues
as
required
May
use
ICT
based
systems
and
programs
to
assist
with
planning,
implementing
and
tracking
progress
Assesses
effectiveness
in
terms
of
how
well
stated
goals
were
achieved
and
how
closely
the
process
followed
the
original
plan
and
timeframes
Uses
a
combination
of
formal,
logical
planning
processes
and
an
increasingly
intuitive
understanding
of
context
to
identify
relevant
information
and
risks,
identify
and
evaluate
alternative
strategies
and
resources
Sequences
and
schedules
complex
activities,
monitors
implementation
and
manages
relevant
communication
e.g.
formal
project
management
processes
and
associated
technology
Reflects
on
outcomes
and
feedback
from
others
in
order
to
identify
general
principles
and
concepts
that
may
be
applicable
in
new
situations
Recognises
the
need
for
flexibility
and
is
learning
how
to
adjust
or
even
abandon
plans
as
circumstances
and
priorities
change
May
operate
from
a
broad
conceptual
plan,
developing
the
operational
detail
in
stages,
regularly
reviewing
priorities
and
performance
during
implementation,
identifying
and
addressing
issues
and
reallocating
resources
Skilfully
utilises
existing
structures
and
systems
to
coordinate
activity,
or
designs
new
processes
as
required
Focuses
effort
on
what
is
most
important,
delegating
to
others
as
required,
managing
interruptions,
recognising
potential
issues
and
taking
quick
action
to
identify
and
resolve
problems
Gathers
data
and
seeks
feedback
from
others
to
gain
new
perspectives
and
identify
ways
to
strengthen
planning
processes
in
the
future
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 43
3B. MAKE DECISIONS
Definition:
This Skill Area is about making a choice from a range of possibilities. It involves the capacity to use different
decision-making approaches and to reflect on the outcomes of decisions.
Key terms and concepts:
Decisions – are required in many different circumstances, ranging from simple, highly predictable situations
with a limited range of options, to highly complex, unpredictable situations with many possible options. Some
decisions can and/or must be made quickly, with limited time for exploration while others allow for more
extensive consideration. While most approaches to the development of decision making skills focus on formal,
systematic processes, in reality, most decisions are made unconsciously or intuitively. Although closely
associated with problem solving, decisions are also required when a change of any kind is being considered,
even if there is no obvious problem involved.
Take the initiative – the ability to make decisions and take action without waiting to be told what to do.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 44
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
decision
making:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
decision
making:
A
Capable
performer
in
decision
making:
A
Proficient
performer
in
decision
making:
An
Expert
in
decision
making:
Establish
decision
making
scope
Takes
responsibility
for
a
limited
range
of
low-
impact
decisions
relevant
to
immediate
tasks
Takes
responsibility
for
routine
low-impact
decisions
within
familiar
situations
Takes
responsibility
for
the
outcomes
of
routine
decisions
related
directly
to
own
role
Is
beginning
to
take
the
initiative
for
making
decisions
in
non-routine
situations
Actively
contributes
to
group/team
decision-
making
when
required
Makes
a
range
of
critical
and
non-critical
decisions
in
relatively
complex
situations,
taking
a
range
of
constraints
into
account
e.g.
time,
availability
of
information,
divergent
perspectives
Considers
whether,
and
how,
others
should
be
involved,
often
using
consultative
or
collaborative
processes
as
an
integral
part
of
the
decision-making
process
Takes
responsibility
for
high
impact
decisions
in
complex
situations
involving
many
variables
and
constraints
Pays
close
attention
to
the
involvement
of
others
in
the
decision
making
process,
judging
when
and
where
to
make
a
unilateral
decision,
consult
with
others
or
collaborate
to
reach
consensus
Review
impact
With
guidance,
may
reflect
on
the
impact
of
a
decision
that
may
not
have
achieved
the
desired
outcome.
With
guidance,
may
reflect
on
outcomes
and
identify
the
features
of
an
effective
or
ineffective
decision
in
a
particular
situation
Evaluates
effectiveness
of
decisions
in
terms
of
how
well
they
meet
stated
goals
Uses
each
experience
to
reflect
on
the
ways
in
which
variables
impact
on
decision
outcomes,
and
to
gain
insights
into
what
constitutes
‘good’
judgement
and
an
effective
decision
in
different
contexts
Monitors
outcomes
of
decisions,
considering
results
from
a
range
of
perspectives,
and
identifying
key
concepts
and
principles
that
may
be
adaptable
to
future
situations
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3B – MAKE DECISIONS
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 45
Focus
Areas
A
Novice
in
decision
making:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
decision
making:
A
Capable
performer
in
decision
making:
A
Proficient
performer
in
decision
making:
An
Expert
in
decision
making:
Apply
decision-
making
processes
Follows
clear,
step
by
step
verbal
instructions
or
written
procedures
for
routine
decisions
directly
relevant
to
own
role,
selecting
from
a
limited
number
of
pre-
determined
options
May
need
encouragement
to
seek
assistance
when
faced
with
decisions
involving
issues
not
clearly
covered
by
guidelines
Selects
from
a
range
of
pre-determined
options
in
routine
situations,
identifying
and
taking
some
situational
factors
into
account
Usually
seeks
input
and
advice
when
decisions
involve
unfamiliar
issues
or
are
not
clearly
covered
by
guidelines
Automatically
implements
standard
procedures
for
routine
decisions
In
more
complex,
non
routine
situations,
uses
a
formal
decision-making
process
with
support,
setting
or
clarifying
goals,
gathering
information,
and
identifying
and
evaluating
several
choices
against
a
limited
set
of
criteria
Makes
decisions
quickly
and
intuitively
in
familiar
situations
requiring
immediate
attention,
drawing
on
past
experience
to
identify
key
variables,
consider
possible
implications
of
different
courses
of
action
and
determine
the
best
course
of
action
Uses
systematic,
analytical
processes
in
complex,
non-
routine
situations,
setting
goals,
gathering
relevant
information,
and
identifying
and
evaluating
options
against
agreed
criteria
Considers
alignment
with
values
and
principles
in
decision-making
processes
and
is
learning
to
recognise
and
manage
ethical
issues
Seeks
advice,
feedback
and
support
as
required
Approaches
decision
making
in
diverse
ways,
recognising
that
there
is
no
formula
and
that
‘it
all
depends’
Identifies
a
range
of
factors
that
impact
on
a
decision,
including
own
values
and
principles,
the
needs,
power,
values,
beliefs
and
assumptions
of
stakeholders
Makes
rapid
decisions
when
required,
drawing
on
in-depth
understanding
of
a
situation
and
experience
of
decision
making
in
this,
and
in
other
contexts
Recognises
when
it
is
important,
and
possible,
to
slow
down
the
decision-
making
process,
and
takes
time
to
explore
and
prioritise
context-dependent
variables,
gather
own
information
and
seek
the
input
of
others
and
consider
ethical
implications
May
use
formal
decision
making
processes
as
scaffolding
for
thinking,
moving
iteratively
between
phases
and
seeking
input,
advice,
feedback
and
specialist
expertise
as
required
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3B – MAKE DECISIONS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 46
3C. IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS
Definition:
This Skill Area is about identifying and addressing routine and non-routine problems in order to achieve work
objectives. This involves the capacity to anticipate or identify problems, take steps to solve problems and
reflect on the outcomes.
Key term and concepts:
Problem – any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty. Something may be perceived as a
problem by one person but not by another, or may be an issue in one context but not in another. Work related
problems may involve few or many variables, be obvious or hidden, predictable or unpredictable, expected
or unexpected. A problem may have one right answer, but often there will be many possible solutions, from
which a choice must be made.
Problem solving – involves identifying and implementing a selected solution and seeing if it works. An
individual’s problem solving performance at any time will be strongly influenced by their understanding of the
context in which they are operating.
Trial and error – experimenting until a solution is found or a satisfactory result is achieved.
Intuitive – is instinctive behaviour based on what one feels to be true, or ‘right’, even without conscious
reasoning. When used in regard to problem solving, the term refers to an expert’s capacity to draw quickly on
vast amounts of past experience in order to sum up a situation, identify the root cause of a problem and devise
a solution that is generally considered by others to be effective. The ability to act intuitively and effectively is a
characteristic of experts. It is developing in those at the proficient stage, and is a key indicator that someone
has moved from the ‘capable’ to the ‘proficient’ stage. A novice or advanced beginner may act on gut feeling
without conscious reasoning but is highly unlikely to act effectively, especially in a complex situation.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 47
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Capable
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Proficient
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Expert
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
Identify
problems
May
recognise
and
respond
to
highly
obvious,
routine
problems
in
the
immediate
work
context
e.g.
a
disruption
to
a
familiar
procedure
May
need
encouragement
to
seek
assistance
when
problems
are
beyond
immediate
responsibilities
or
experience
Recognises
and
responds
to
predictable
routine
problems
related
to
role
in
the
immediate
work
context
Seeks
assistance
when
problems
are
beyond
immediate
responsibilities
or
experience
Recognises
and
takes
responsibility
for
addressing
predictable,
and
some
less
predictable
problems
in
familiar
work
contexts
Understands
when
to
take
responsibility
and
when
to
notify
others
Generally
accepts
the
obvious
symptoms
of
a
problem
as
‘the
problem’
and
seeks
to
re-establish
the
status
quo
Recognises
and
anticipates
an
increasing
range
of
familiar
problems,
their
symptoms
and
causes,
actively
looking
for
early
warning
signs
and
implementing
contingency
plans
Recognises
and
addresses
some
unfamiliar
problems
of
increasing
complexity
within
own
scope,
recognising
when
to
seek
the
expertise
of
others
Begins
to
look
behind
the
obvious
symptoms
to
redefine
the
problem
and
identify
underlying
causes
Recognises
and
addresses
complex
problems
involving
multiple
variables
Uses
nuanced
understanding
of
context
to
recognise
anomalies
and
subtle
deviations
to
normal
expectations,
focusing
attention
on
critical
issues
and
variables
and
filtering
out
peripheral
issues
Recognises
that
identified
’problems’
can
be
surface
indicators
of
deeper
issues,
and
routinely
reframes
problem
definitions
as
part
of
the
process
of
identifying
a
root
cause
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 48
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Capable
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Proficient
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Expert
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
Apply
problem-
solving
processes
Follows
clear,
step
by
step
instructions
or
procedures
to
address
a
small
set
of
identified,
routine
problems
directly
relevant
to
own
role
If
no
direction
or
advice
is
available,
may
attempt
to
solve
a
problem
using
a
‘trial
and
error’
approach,
with
a
limited
awareness
of
the
potential
impact
of
solutions
Begins
to
identify
and
implement
standard
solutions
for
an
increasing
number
of
routine
problems
Where
standardised
procedures
or
assistance
is
not
available,
addresses
unfamiliar
problems
by
applying
past
solutions
that
may
appear
to
have
some
relevance
to
the
current
situation
Initiates
standard
procedures
when
responding
to
familiar
problems
within
immediate
context
Applies
formal
problem
solving
processes
when
tackling
an
unfamiliar
problem,
breaking
complex
issues
into
manageable
parts
and
identifying
and
evaluating
several
options
for
action
Where
appropriate,
seeks
feedback
or
advice
before
implementing
a
solution
In
familiar
contexts,
responds
intuitively
to
problems
requiring
immediate
attention,
quickly
drawing
on
past
experience
to
devise
solutions
When
dealing
with
complex
issues,
may
use
intuition
to
identify
the
general
problem
area,
switching
to
analytical
processes
to
clarify
goals
and
key
issues,
and
using
lateral
thinking
processes
to
generate
possible
solutions
Uses
analytical
processes
to
decide
on
a
course
of
action,
establishing
criteria
for
deciding
between
options,
and
seeking
input
and
advice
from
others
before
taking
action
when
necessary
Approaches
problem
solving
in
diverse
ways,
recognising
that
there
is
no
formula
and
that
‘it
all
depends’
May
intuitively
hone
in
on
the
problem
area
and
identify
a
small
set
of
possible
appropriate
solutions
May
invest
time
in
defining
the
real
problem,
using
a
variety
of
techniques
to
challenge
initial
perceptions
of
the
situation,
identify
key
contributing
factors
and
critical
issues
May
use
formal
analytical
and
lateral
thinking
techniques
for
identifying
issues,
generating
and
evaluating
possible
solutions
May
identify
a
need
for
further
information
or
seek
advice
from
relevant
experts
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 49
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Capable
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
A
Proficient
performer
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
An
Expert
in
identifying
and
solving
problems:
Review
outcomes
With
guidance,
may
identify
some
ways
in
which
a
suggested
solution
worked
or
did
not
work,
and
suggest
actions
that
could
be
taken
in
a
similar
situation
May
reflect
on
outcomes
and
identify
what
worked,
or
develop
an
improved
approach
for
future
situations
Considers
the
effectiveness
of
a
solution
in
terms
of
how
well
it
met
stated
goals,
and
seeks
to
improve
a
future
response
when
a
solution
does
not
achieve
its
intended
outcome
With
guidance,
begins
to
reflect
on
the
effectiveness
of
a
selected
problem
solving
process
Uses
formal
and
informal
processes
to
monitor
implementation
of
solutions
and
reflect
on
outcomes
Acknowledges
where
a
solution
did
not
achieve
expected
outcomes
and
seeks
a
range
of
perspectives
to
understand
why,
including
a
rethinking
of
original
goals
Reflects
on
the
appropriateness
and
effectiveness
of
the
problem
solving
process
used
and
identifies
some
key
principles
that
may
be
relevant
in
future
situations
Uses
every
situation
as
an
opportunity
for
extending
insights
and
understanding,
recognising
that
any
solution
will
have
both
intended
and
unintended
consequences
and
that
cause
and
effect
may
not
be
closely
or
obviously
linked
Reflects
on
the
application
of
key
principles
in
a
particular
context,
the
appropriateness
and
effectiveness
of
different
sources
of
information
and
problem
solving
processes
for
that
context,
and
the
potential
implications
for
future
situations
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 50
3D. CREATE AND INNOVATE
Definition:
This Skill Area is about creating, applying and recognising the value of new ideas to solve problems, improve
or develop new processes, products or strategies, or deliver new benefits. It involves the capacity to challenge
perceptions of how things are, and how they might be, and to recognise a potential opportunity. It also involves
the use of formal processes to challenge and extend initial perceptions of a situation, and generate, and select
from, a range of new ideas.
Key terms and concepts:
New ideas – refers to ideas that may never have been thought of before, or ideas that may not have been
proposed in a particular context, or by a particular individual. They include hypotheses, speculations and
possibilities.
Lateral thinking – refers to the general approach of exploring multiple possibilities rather than pursuing only
one.
Lateral thinking techniques – are a set of systematic thinking tools that can be used to challenge initial
concepts and perceptions (a necessary pre-cursor to having ‘new’ ideas) and generate large numbers of ideas
in a particular situation.
Analytical or logical techniques – are thinking processes used to develop criteria and select ideas for practical
application, or for further exploration and development. While final decisions about an idea may be made
intuitively, in a work setting they often involve detailed analysis and a logical process of prioritising different
options against an explicit set of criteria.
Judgement – refers to the mental operation in which an individual seeks to ‘make sense’ of a new idea by
evaluating it against past experience to decide whether it is a ‘good’ idea or a ‘bad’ one, whether it will work or
not work etc. This process is often implicit, and has the potential to rule out many new ideas before they can
be explored.
Explore – means to traverse or range over for the purpose of discovery. Exploration of a new idea involves
setting aside judgement for long enough to allow genuine consideration of its possibilities. Any new idea has
the potential to suggest another way forward. Even if the idea itself is unlikely to be applicable in its entirety, it
may be based on principles or have features that could be utilised in a new way. However, these are not always
immediately obvious – hence the need to ‘play’ with possibilities for a time before making a decision.
Innovation - involves inventing a new idea, or recognising the potential of a new idea proposed by someone
else, developing it further and introducing it for the first time, or for the first time in a particular context. While
the term is often used to describe the full process of design, evaluation and implementation, the focus of this
Skill Area is on the process of selecting an idea for implementation. The implementation of the idea selected
is a complex process in its own right, which draws on other Skill Areas such as planning and organising,
decision making, communicating and connecting with others.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 51
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Capable
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Proficient
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Expert
in
creating
and
innovating:
Recognise
opportunities
to
develop
and
apply
new
ideas
May
recognise
opportunities
for
application
of
new
ideas
proposed
by
others
where
implementation
requires
little
disruption
and
the
benefits
to
own
work
are
immediately
obvious
Supports
the
application
of
new
ideas
proposed
by
others
where
implementation
requires
little
disruption
and
the
benefits
to
own
work
are
immediately
obvious
May
identify
and
propose
a
small
change
to
a
process,
product
or
service
within
scope
of
own
role
Recognises
the
value
of
continuous
improvement
within
own
work
context
where
this
involves
incremental
change
Contributes
to
the
design
of
new
approaches
within
the
immediate
work
environment
Identifies
ways
to
address
problems
affecting
own
role,
and
begins
to
recognise
the
value
of
seeking
different
perspectives
when
a
solution
is
not
obvious
Adopts
proposals
suggested
by
others
and
finds
ways
to
make
them
work
in
practice
where
these
do
not
require
radical
change
Recognises
the
potential
of
new
approaches
to
enhance
work
practices
and
outcomes,
and
accepts
the
need
to
consider
radical
as
well
as
incremental
change
Recognises
that
the
current
way
is
only
one
way
of
doing
something,
and
takes
mental
risks,
exploring
possibilities
that
challenge
current
approaches
Invests
some
time
in
looking
for
new
ideas
and
opportunities,
drawing
on
the
diverse
perspectives
of
others
to
gain
insights
into
current
practice
and
ideas
for
change
Begins
to
use
regularly
recurring
problems
as
an
indicator
of
areas
where
a
new
approach
could
yield
significant
benefits
Contributes
to
creating
a
climate
where
people
feel
comfortable
to
suggest,
explore,
adapt
and
adopt
new
ideas
as
a
regular
part
of
work
life
Recognises
the
critical
importance
of
the
ongoing
exploration
of
new
ideas
to
the
viability
and
effectiveness
of
a
work
situation
Actively
focuses
on
things
normally
taken
for
granted,
asking,
“Is
this
the
only
way?
Are
there
better
ways?”
Explores
and
incubates
ideas
that
have
the
potential
to
lead
to
radical
departures
from
the
current
situation
Facilitates
a
climate
in
which
creativity
and
innovation
are
accepted
as
an
integral
part
of
the
way
things
are
done
e.g.
builds
in
time
for
idea
creation
and
sharing,
deliberately
looks
for
the
potential
in
ideas
proposed
by
others,
especially
when
they
do
not
seem
immediately
practical
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 52
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Capable
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Proficient
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Expert
in
creating
and
innovating:
Generate
ideas
Perceives
chance
and
inspiration
as
the
main
ways
of
producing
new
ideas
Demonstrates
a
limited
awareness
of
the
differences
between
analytical
and
lateral
thinking
With
guidance,
may
follow
the
rules
of
a
formal
lateral
thinking
technique
Identifies
ideas
in
use
in
other
contexts
and
considers
how
they
might
be
applied
in
own
context
with
minimal
adjustment
Understands
that
analytical
and
lateral
thinking
skills
can
be
learned
May
apply
a
formal
lateral
thinking
technique
at
the
instigation
of
others,
with
some
understanding
of
how
the
technique
works
Identifies
and
adapts
ideas
being
used
in
similar
contexts
Understands
and
explicitly
applies
some
basic
principles
of
analytical
and
lateral
thinking
Uses
a
systematic
process
to
identify
possible
solutions
to
a
difficult
problem,
e.g.
applies
a
standard
set
of
questions
or
some
thinking
techniques,
often
in
collaboration
with
others
Identifies
concepts,
principles
and
features
of
approaches
in
use
in
other
contexts,
and
redesigns
these
to
suit
own
situation
Uses
ideas
proposed
by
others
as
provocations
and
stepping
stones
to
new
perceptions
and
ideas
Regularly
uses
formal
thinking
techniques
to
escape
from
current
perceptions
in
order
to
generate
new
ideas,
even
when
there
is
no
immediate
need
or
issue
May
invest
time
in
developing
and
shaping
several
options
before
making
a
final
choice,
using
a
combination
of
lateral
and
analytical
thinking
to
tailor
and
strengthen
an
idea
to
suit
needs,
resources
and
constraints
Plays
with
possibilities
as
an
integral
part
of
work
life
e.g.
Identifies
the
principles,
concepts
and
features
of
existing
approaches
and
rearranges
them
or
combines
some
with
others
for
a
new
purpose
Articulates
and
challenges
the
values,
beliefs
and
assumptions
that
may
be
shaping
thinking,
and
routinely
reframes
and
redefines
problems
in
order
to
get
new
perspectives
and
generate
new
ideas
Keeps
abreast
of
innovations
and
good
practice
beyond
own
context,
borrowing,
adapting,
combining
and
redesigning
for
own
purposes
or
using
as
a
provocation
to
rethink
current
approaches
Applies
systematic
thinking
techniques
as
an
integral
part
of
the
creative
process,
recognising
the
need
to
challenge
habitual
perceptions,
break
patterns
and
make
new
connections
in
order
to
escape
from
habitual
mind
sets
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE (Continue)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 53
Focus
Area
A
Novice
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Capable
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
A
Proficient
performer
in
creating
and
innovating:
An
Expert
in
creating
and
innovating:
Select
ideas
for
implementation
Selects
or
supports
the
adoption
of
new
approaches
that
can
be
easily
applied
without
disruption
of
familiar
routines
Selects
or
supports
the
adoption
of
new
ideas
that
will
easily
resolve
a
problem
or
improve
a
process
within
the
immediate
work
context
Selects
or
supports
new
ideas
on
the
basis
of
their
potential
to
improve
an
aspect
of
the
immediate
situation
without
radical
change
May
use
a
standard
set
of
questions
or
criteria
when
deciding
which
ideas,
if
any,
to
adopt
e.g.
Will
it
fit
immediate
needs
or
can
it
be
adapted
easily
to
do
so?
Is
it
affordable?
Selects
or
supports
new
ideas
on
the
basis
of
their
contribution
to
the
achievement
of
broader
goals
Makes
final
decisions
using
clear
priorities
and
criteria
Begins
to
look
beyond
immediate
adoption
to
broader
implications
that
may
affect
adoption
of
innovations
Recognises
the
importance
of
promoting
a
new
idea
to
others
who
may
be
involved
in,
or
affected
by
its
implementation
Draws
on
a
broad
understanding
of
the
context,
and
uses
a
combination
of
analysis
and
intuition
to
decide
whether
an
idea
is
worth
developing
further/
implementing
Defines
benefits,
costs,
risks
and
feasibility
from
a
broad
range
of
perspectives,
and
may
think
laterally
to
redesign
aspects
in
order
to
address
potential
issues
Identifies
and
seeks
to
address
the
range
of
issues
that
may
impact
on
successful
adoption
of
an
innovation
Invests
time
in
ensuring
that
the
value
of
the
new
approach
is
appreciated
by
decision
makers
and
those
involved
in/affected
by
its
implementation
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE (Continue)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 54
3E. WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD
Definition:
This Skill Area refers to the capacity to connect to other people, information and contexts for work-related
purposes using digital systems and technology. It involves understanding concepts and language associated
with the digital world and the capacity to understand and work with emerging/accepted etiquette and
risks associated with online environments. It also involves identifying how digital technology and digitally
based systems can extend, enhance or make possible specific aspects of a role or task, and create new
opportunities.
Key terms and concepts:
Digital world – refers to the global environment in which digital technology enables multiple connections
between people, rapid access to and transfer of information, the visualisation and analysis of data, the ability
to connect with others, sharing information, collaborating and build relationships that are not limited by time
and location.
Digital technologies – include any products or combination of products that will store, retrieve, manipulate,
transmit or receive information electronically in a digital form e.g. devices, applications, software.
Network – in information technology contexts, network refers to a series of points or nodes interconnected
by communication paths. Networks can interconnect with other networks and contain sub-networks e.g. the
Internet and local Intranets.
Social networking – the use of interconnected Internet communities that help people make and maintain
contacts, particularly with people they would have been unlikely to meet otherwise.
Electronic paper trail – the electronically stored written evidence of someone’s activities.
Etiquette – social conventions about accepted behaviours in the digital world. Netiquette refers to a set of
online conventions that has been formalised and adopted by a number of online services.
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 55
Focus
Area
A
Novice
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Expert
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
Use
digitally
based
technologies
and
systems
Begins
to
understand
the
purpose
of
some
commonly
used
digital
tools
Identifies
some
appropriate
hardware/
software
for
immediate
tasks
With
assistance,
is
learning
to
perform
basic
functions
related
directly
to
own
tasks
e.g.
uses
email,
undertakes
basic
Internet
searches,
manipulates
screens
Recognises
and
uses
some
terms
and
symbols
with
some
understanding
of
their
meaning
e.g.
application,
file
With
guidance,
begins
to
use
some
basic
troubleshooting
strategies
e.g.
turns
off
and
on
again
Understands
the
purpose
and
some
specific
functions
of
some
common
digital
tools
used
in
work
contexts
Uses
the
main
features
and
functions
of
these
digital
tools
to
complete
own
tasks
Recognises
and
responds
to
basic
terms
and
symbols
Recognises
a
small
set
of
design
and
operating
principles
and
applies
these
when
learning
how
to
use
upgrades
or
new
digital
tools
with
the
same
purpose
Uses
a
small
number
of
troubleshooting
strategies
independently
and
seeks
assistance
as
required
Understands
the
purposes,
specific
functions
and
key
features
of
common
digital
systems
and
tools
and
operates
them
effectively
to
complete
routine
tasks,
adapting
some
functions
to
improve
personal
efficiency
Recognises
and
uses
common
symbols
and
terminology
associated
with
the
digital
world
Recognises
some
general
design
and
operating
principles
of
digital
tools
and
uses
these
to
help
when
adopting
upgrades,
new
technologies
with
similar
purposes
or
when
troubleshooting
Troubleshoots
routine
issues
and
knows
when
to
ask
others
for
assistance
Considers
purpose,
needs
and
limitations
when
selecting
devices
and
applications
for
different
tasks
Is
beginning
to
monitor
trends
and
identify
applications
and
innovations
from
other
contexts
that
may
be
useful
Utilises
a
broad
range
of
features
within
applications
to
improve
personal
productivity,
optimising
software
functions
for
specific
purposes
Recognises
and
uses
a
wide
range
of
relevant
language
and
symbols
Reflects
on
the
ways
in
which
digital
systems
and
tools
are
used,
or
could
be
used,
to
achieve
work
goals,
and
begins
to
recognise
strategic,
as
well
as
operational,
applications
Understands
key
principles
and
concepts
underpinning
the
design
and
operation
of
digital
systems
and
tools
and
applies
these
when
troubleshooting
existing
technology,
and
when
seeking
to
understand
the
potential
of
new
technology
Actively
identifies
systems,
devices
and
applications
with
potential
to
meet
current
and/or
future
needs
Considers
the
strategic
and
operational
potential
of
digital
trends
to
achieve
work
goals,
enhance
work
processes,
create
opportunities,
pose
threats
and
enhance
or
reduce
risks
Experiments
with
the
possibilities
of
new
systems,
devices,
applications,
apps
etc
before
conducting
a
more
sophisticated
analysis
of
benefits,
costs
and
risk
Demonstrates
a
sophisticated
understanding
of
principles,
concepts,
language
and
practices
associated
with
the
digital
world,
and
uses
these
to
troubleshoot
and
understand
the
uses
and
potential
of
new
technology
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 56
Focus
Area
A
Novice
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Expert
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
Connect
with
others
Begins
to
link
to
those
in
immediate
work
context
via
common
digital
systems,
devices
and
tools,
e.g.
smartphone,
PDA
Intranet,
email,
SMS
Begins
to
recognise
and
apply
some
basic
conventions
of
online
etiquette
Uses
digital
systems,
search
engines
and
common
digital
tools
to
connect
with
others
in
immediate
work
context
on
matters
related
to
own
role
e.g.
Uses
electronic
messaging
to
seek
immediate
information
or
advice
from
peers
or
supervisor
Recognises
and
applies
some
conventions
of
online
etiquette
Establishes
and
maintains
online
connections
with
others
as
an
integral
part
of
role,
using
a
variety
of
digital
tools
and
media
to
interact,
collaborate
and
create
May
use
online
forums,
blogs
and
social
networking
sites
to
connect
with
work
peers
or
discuss
work
related
issues,
following
online
etiquette
appropriately
Explores
ways
of
connecting
to
others
within
and
beyond
the
work
context
in
order
to
access
diverse
perspectives
and
build
on
collective
intelligence
Communicates
information
and
ideas
to
an
expanding
range
of
audiences,
considering
the
nature
and
potential
reach
of
various
linkages
and
the
benefits
and
limitations
of
different
kinds
of
electronic
channels,
and
paying
close
attention
to
online
etiquette
May
use
mobile
communication
tools
and
specialised
software
to
collaborate
with
others,
or
engage
with
geographically
distributed
team
members
in
virtual
environments
Collaborates
with
many
people
simultaneously
and
is
beginning
to
initiate
improvised
groups
around
tasks,
ideas
and
issues
Uses
social
networking
as
an
integral
part
of
work
to
supplement
individual
knowledge
Begins
to
manage
own
online
profile,
recognising
the
permanence
and
reach
of
both
personal
and
work
related
information
Actively
identifies,
creates,
and
utilises
linkages
to
enhance
knowledge
sharing,
idea
creation,
individual
and
collective
engagement
and
work
outcomes
Demonstrates
a
sophisticated
understanding
of
expectations,
social
protocols
and
online
etiquette,
intuitively
selecting
the
appropriate
channel,
content,
and
tone
for
diverse
purposes
and
audiences
Establishes
and
contributes
to
virtual
communities
involved
in
collaborative
construction
of
resources,
sharing
of
information,
development
of
ideas
Uses
multiple
social
contexts
and
media
spaces
to
connect
with
and
influence
others,
tailoring
strategies
for
each
Seeks
to
build
and
maintain
an
effective
online
profile
as
an
integral
part
of
work
and
career
management
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 57
Focus
Area
A
Novice
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Expert
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
Access,
organise,
and
present
information
Follows
simple,
step
by
step
instructions
for
using
digital
technology
to
enter,
store
and
retrieve
information
directly
relevant
to
role
e.g.
enters
details
into
electronic
timesheet,
stores
electronic
records,
enters
basic
key
words
into
a
search
engine
to
find
information
Follows
routine
procedures
for
using
digital
technology
to
enter,
store
and
retrieve
information
directly
relevant
to
role
e.g.
enters
and
accesses
customer
information
in
a
database,
enters
and
reads
data
from
electronic
monitoring
and
control
systems
Uses
familiar
digital
systems
and
tools
to
access,
organise,
analyse
and
display
information
relevant
to
role
e.g.
accesses
and
filters
information
using
search
engines,
data
bases,
or
spreadsheets,
uses
computer-based
applications
to
present
information
Uses
a
range
of
digitally
based
technology
and
applications
to
access
and
filter
data,
extract,
organise,
integrate
and
share
relevant
information
in
increasingly
effective
ways
e.g.
uses
statistical
analysis
applications,
participates
in
user
forums
and
online
communities
of
practice
Considers
new
ways
to
model,
visualise,
interact
with
and
present
complex
information
e.g.
uses
project
management
or
process-modelling
software
Uses
a
broad
range
of
strategies
to
store,
access
and
organise
virtual
information,
recognising
that
design
choices
will
influence
what
information
is
retrieved,
and
how
it
may
be
interpreted
and
used
e.g.
makes
decisions
about
information
to
be
captured
in
a
database
and
the
kinds
of
reports
required
Uses
digital
tools
to
access
and
organise
complex
data
and
analyse
multiple
sources
of
information
for
strategic
purposes
e.g.
Filters
and
synthesises
meaningful
information,
patterns
and
commonalities
from
multiple
streams
of
data,
models
complex
scenarios
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)
Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 58
Focus
Area
A
Novice
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Advanced
Beginner
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Capable
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
A
Proficient
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
An
Expert
performer
in
working
in
a
digital
world:
Manage
risk
With
guidance,
follows
security
instructions
e.g.
security
procedures,
privacy
requirements
May
need
to
be
reminded
to
use
back
up
procedures
Begins
to
recognise
distinctions
between
personal
and
work
related
use
of
digital
devices,
connections
Implements
basic
security
requirements
related
to
own
tasks
With
assistance,
may
recognise
some
issues
about
the
transparency
and
accessibility
of
information
relevant
to
own
role
Understands
the
importance
of
secure
information
and
privacy
in
relation
to
own
work,
and
begins
to
take
personal
responsibility
for
identifying
and
managing
risk
factors
e.g.
Uses
security
protection
and
routinely
backs
up
data
Recognises
some
issues
about
the
transparency
and
accessibility
of
information
in
relation
to
own
role,
and
some
of
the
benefits
and
drawbacks
of
being
digitally
connected
to
others
and
takes
some
steps
to
manage
associated
risks
e.g.
checks
email
addresses
before
sending
Uses
digital
technologies
and
systems
safely,
legally
and
ethically
when
gathering,
storing,
accessing
and
sharing
information,
with
a
growing
awareness
of
the
permanence
and
transparency
of
all
activities
Pays
attention
to
when,
how
and
why
a
device
is
connected
to
other
sites,
what
information
is
being
passed
and
whether
it
is
protected
Manages
and
maintains
files
securely
in
a
variety
of
storage
media
and
formats
and
is
beginning
to
actively
establish,
maintain
and
monitor
electronic
paper
trails
Recognises
broader
positive
and
negative
implications
of
new
technologies
for
ways
of
working
e.g.
synergies
and
conflicts
associated
with
increased
transparency,
the
permanency
of
records,
self
documentation
of
work
done,
location,
collaboration,
interests,
accountability,
online
profiles
and
personas
Pays
close
attention
to
the
nature
of
connections,
establishing
who
is
directly
or
indirectly
linked
to
whom
and
in
what
ways,
and
evaluating
associated
benefits
and
risks
Is
acutely
aware
of
the
importance
of
understanding,
monitoring
and
controlling
access
to
digitally
stored
and
transmitted
information
PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)

More Related Content

PDF
3._bridging_document.pdf
PPTX
Strengthening the connection between technical education and employment
PPTX
T2 l foundation skills industry
PPTX
Pre course assessment- compliance webinar v2
PPTX
Pre course assessment- compliance webinar v2
PDF
Wld d10 en
DOC
Education and training in landscape construction (2)john monty
PDF
Beafinalmarch
3._bridging_document.pdf
Strengthening the connection between technical education and employment
T2 l foundation skills industry
Pre course assessment- compliance webinar v2
Pre course assessment- compliance webinar v2
Wld d10 en
Education and training in landscape construction (2)john monty
Beafinalmarch

Similar to Core-Skills-for-Work-Developmental-Framework-2013.pdf (20)

PDF
6.cbt for iiste -49-58
PDF
National occupational food standard training guide
PDF
C chs tg-module1-4_dec
PPT
TAADES401 B_ training packages
PPTX
FASH40033 Week 29 Assessment Briefing.pptx
PDF
Intrapreneurial performance augmented by training & hrm development
PPT
6-Competency-based HRM.ppt...............
DOCX
Develop an iain walisongo administrative staff to become excelent university
PPTX
AWPA presentation on Workforce Development at the 7th Annual Australasian Tal...
PDF
An Assessment of Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes of Accountancy Business and...
PDF
What Private Enterprise Can Learn From Public Sector Capability Frameworks
PDF
VIETNAM.SKILLS
PDF
How To Develop A Competency Framework
PDF
2013 09 29 EHRD Project Jerry Silmon FINAL
PPTX
Skills Development conference _Strategic Learning Solutions_26 february 2016
PPT
Employability
DOC
Training report on Training & Development at VSIPL
DOCX
A project report on training and development with reference to hal
PPT
Strategic Training and Development
6.cbt for iiste -49-58
National occupational food standard training guide
C chs tg-module1-4_dec
TAADES401 B_ training packages
FASH40033 Week 29 Assessment Briefing.pptx
Intrapreneurial performance augmented by training & hrm development
6-Competency-based HRM.ppt...............
Develop an iain walisongo administrative staff to become excelent university
AWPA presentation on Workforce Development at the 7th Annual Australasian Tal...
An Assessment of Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes of Accountancy Business and...
What Private Enterprise Can Learn From Public Sector Capability Frameworks
VIETNAM.SKILLS
How To Develop A Competency Framework
2013 09 29 EHRD Project Jerry Silmon FINAL
Skills Development conference _Strategic Learning Solutions_26 february 2016
Employability
Training report on Training & Development at VSIPL
A project report on training and development with reference to hal
Strategic Training and Development
Ad

Recently uploaded (20)

PPTX
Prokaryotes v Eukaryotes PowerPoint.pptx
PPT
notes_Lecture2 23l3j2 dfjl dfdlkj d 2.ppt
PPTX
Slideham presentation for the students a
DOC
field study for teachers graduating samplr
PDF
Entrepreneurship PowerPoint for students
PPTX
Sports and Dance -lesson 3 powerpoint presentation
PPTX
FINAL PPT.pptx cfyufuyfuyuy8ioyoiuvy ituyc utdfm v
PPT
NO000387 (1).pptsbsnsnsnsnsnsnsmsnnsnsnsjsnnsnsnsnnsnnansnwjwnshshshs
PPTX
Job-opportunities lecture about it skills
PPTX
A slide for students with the advantagea
PPT
APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENTALlllllllllllllllll
PPTX
_Dispute Resolution_July 2022.pptxmhhghhhh
PDF
LSR CASEBOOK 2024-25.pdf. very nice casbook
PPTX
1751884730-Visual Basic -Unitj CS B.pptx
PPTX
OnePlus 13R – ⚡ All-Rounder King Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 – same as iQ...
PPTX
PE3-WEEK-3sdsadsadasdadadwadwdsdddddd.pptx
PPT
ALLIED MATHEMATICS -I UNIT III MATRICES.ppt
PDF
iTop VPN Crack Latest Version 2025 Free Download With Keygen
PPT
2- CELL INJURY L1 Medical (2) gggggggggg
PDF
servsafecomprehensive-ppt-full-140617222538-phpapp01.pdf
Prokaryotes v Eukaryotes PowerPoint.pptx
notes_Lecture2 23l3j2 dfjl dfdlkj d 2.ppt
Slideham presentation for the students a
field study for teachers graduating samplr
Entrepreneurship PowerPoint for students
Sports and Dance -lesson 3 powerpoint presentation
FINAL PPT.pptx cfyufuyfuyuy8ioyoiuvy ituyc utdfm v
NO000387 (1).pptsbsnsnsnsnsnsnsmsnnsnsnsjsnnsnsnsnnsnnansnwjwnshshshs
Job-opportunities lecture about it skills
A slide for students with the advantagea
APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENTALlllllllllllllllll
_Dispute Resolution_July 2022.pptxmhhghhhh
LSR CASEBOOK 2024-25.pdf. very nice casbook
1751884730-Visual Basic -Unitj CS B.pptx
OnePlus 13R – ⚡ All-Rounder King Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 – same as iQ...
PE3-WEEK-3sdsadsadasdadadwadwdsdddddd.pptx
ALLIED MATHEMATICS -I UNIT III MATRICES.ppt
iTop VPN Crack Latest Version 2025 Free Download With Keygen
2- CELL INJURY L1 Medical (2) gggggggggg
servsafecomprehensive-ppt-full-140617222538-phpapp01.pdf
Ad

Core-Skills-for-Work-Developmental-Framework-2013.pdf

  • 1. CORE SKILLS FOR WORK DEVELOPMENTAL FRAMEWORK The Framework Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education and Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
  • 2. ISBN 978-1-922125-42-2 DIISRTE 12/179 Thank you to all the stakeholders who helped in the development of this document by attending consultation sessions and providing expertise, feedback and suggestions. © Commonwealth of Australia 2013 Department’s of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education; and Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. This work is copyright. It may be reproduced in whole or in part for study or training purposes subject to the inclusion of the source and no commercial usage or sale. Reproduction for purposes other than those indicated above require the written permission from the Commonwealth. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, GPO Box 9839, Canberra ACT 2601. The CSfW was funded by the Commonwealth of Australia and developed by Ithaca Group Pty Ltd The views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect the views of the Commonwealth of Australia. The CSfW can also be accessed via the following websites www.deewr.gov.au/csfw and www.innovation.gov.au/csfw.
  • 3. CONTENTS Introduction to the CSfW 1 Skill Areas 1 Influencing Factors 2 Background to the development of the CSfW 3 Purpose of the CSfW 4 Concepts underpinning the CSfW 5 A developmental approach 5 Context-dependency 5 Relevance to a range of contexts 6 Structure of the CSfW 8 Using the CSfW 13 The Performance Features 13 The Influencing Factors 13 Performance Features Tables 15 1a. Manage career and work life 16 1b. Work with roles, rights and protocols 20 2a. Communicate for work 24 2b. Connect and work with others 29 2c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives 34 3a. Plan and organise 39 3b. Make decisions 42 3c. Identify and solve problems 46 3d. Create and innovate 50 3e. Work in a digital world 54
  • 4. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE CSFW The Core Skills for Work Developmental Framework (the CSfW) describes a set of non-technical skills, knowledge and understandings that underpin successful participation in work1 . Participation in work could be as an employee, as someone who is self-employed, or as a volunteer. This set of non-technical skills, often referred to as generic or employability skills, contribute to work performance in combination with technical or discipline specific skills and core language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) skills2 . As illustrated in Figure 1, work performance is also influenced by a range of factors relating to the context in which the skills are being applied. Figure 1. CORE SKILLS FOR WORK IN CONTEXT Skill Areas The CSfW describes performance in ten Skill Areas, grouped under three Skill Clusters: Cluster 1 - Navigate the world of work a. Manage career and work life b. Work with roles, rights and protocols Cluster 2 - Interact with others a. Communicate for work b. Connect and work with others c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives 1 The term ‘work’ is used throughout the CSfW in the broadest sense of “activity that is directed at a specific purpose, which involves mental or physical effort”. 2 The combination of LLN skills (as detailed in the Australian Core Skills Framework) and Core Skills for Work is referred to as Foundation Skills in the Vocational Education and Training Sector. In the school sector these two types of skills are described as General Capabilities and in the higher education sector they are referred to as Graduate Attributes. Core Skills for Work Technical or Discipline Specific Skills Context LLN Skills Work Performance
  • 5. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 2 Cluster 3 - Get the work done a. Plan and organise b. Make decisions c. Identify and solve problems d. Create and innovate e. Work in a digital world Each Skill Area describes a combination of knowledge, skills and understandings and their application to work. The CSfW recognises that these Skill Areas are relevant to all those undertaking work, not just those entering the workforce for the first time, and that they can continue to be developed across the span of an individual’s working life. The CSfW describes performance in each of the Skill Areas across five stages (see page 9). It also recognises that: ■ ■ the particular skills and stages of performance required by individuals will vary according to the context in which they are operating ■ ■ there is no expectation that individuals will necessarily need all of these skills, or will need to develop them to the expert stage of performance ■ ■ an individual is likely to be operating at different stages of performance across different Skill Areas ■ ■ an individual’s ability to demonstrate and develop these skills will be influenced by the context in which they are operating. Influencing Factors In recognition of the fact that performance in these Skill Areas is context-dependent, the CSfW identifies a number of factors that impact upon the development and demonstration of Core Skills for Work. Performance in a work situation is not only dependent on the skills and knowledge that an individual brings to it, but on a range of factors that may affect how well they can apply these to different tasks. Contextual factors also affect an individual’s capacity to demonstrate certain skills or to develop them further. For example, someone may have highly developed decision-making skills, but if they are not given the autonomy or their job role does not require them to exercise these skills, their demonstrable performance in this Skill Area may reflect a lower stage performance. These ‘Influencing Factors’ are illustrated in Figure 2 (see page 3) and described in detail in Table 4 (see pages 11–12).
  • 6. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 3 Figure 2. FACTORS INFLUENCING WORK PERFORMANCE BACKGROUND TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CSFW The notion of employability has been part of education for many years. In the early 1990s, the concept of employment-related skills gained traction in Australia when the Mayer Committee examined the skills required for entry-level employment. The Mayer Key Competencies were developed to enable the incorporation of these skills into education and training. In 2002, Australian industry took a lead role in describing the skills required to gain and progress in employment. These ‘employability skills’ were identified in the Employability Skills for the Future report, prepared by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and the Business Council of Australia (BCA) with funding from the Commonwealth Government. The Employability Skills described in that report were taken up in Australia’s vocational education and training sector, but concerns remained about how well these skills were being developed and understood. Consultations in Stage One of the CSfW development identified that there was potential for a new Framework to provide a common language that would assist all education, training and employment services sectors to address these skills more explicitly. The development of the CSfW drew upon recent research about employability and generic skills and their development, as well as analysis of a range of current approaches to addressing employability and generic skills in Australia and overseas. More than 800 people had input into the development process, including employers, unions and industry groups and a broad cross-section of organisations and sectors that have an interest in, and potential use for, the CSfW. The CSfW, as described in this document, is intended to be reviewed after a number of years of use to check whether it would benefit from adjustment or further development. Existing skills and knowledge External factors Cultural and value-based factors Degree of motivation Nature and degree of support Level of autonomy Complexity of tasks Familiarity with context Self-belief and resilience Demonstrable Performance
  • 7. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 4 PURPOSE OF THE CSFW The CSfW has been designed to make more clear and explicit a set of non-technical skills and knowledge that underpin successful participation in work. This provides a common reference point and language that will assist: ■ ■ those who develop standards, curriculum, programs and learning and assessment resources to more clearly articulate the Core Skills for Work required for certain occupations or at particular points in career development ■ ■ trainers, educators and those who work with job seekers to more explicitly address the development of these skills in learners, and to assist those they work with to more clearly articulate the skills they do possess and identify those that they would like to develop. The CSfW is not a set of standards, nor an assessment tool. It is a framework for conceptualising and articulating skills, knowledge and understandings that underpin work performance over time, and for guiding further development. It is not intended to replace approaches to developing these skills that are already in place, but to provide a common underpinning that is relevant across sectors. The CSfW takes the skills and behaviours that have been identified by Australian employers as important for successful participation in work and identifies the underpinning skills and knowledge involved. For example, employers say that they value individuals who can work in teams. This has been ‘unpacked’ across a range of skills, such as: ■ ■ work with roles, rights and protocols ■ ■ respect and utilise diverse perspectives ■ ■ connect and work with others. Knowledge, skills and understandings that are often taken for granted in expectations around work performance, such as those needed to recognise the protocols of a workplace, and those that facilitate the adaptation of prior knowledge and skills to new contexts, are also made explicit in the CSfW. The CSfW presents the underpinning skills, knowledge and understandings in terms that make them describable, teachable and/or learnable, and able to be demonstrated. This approach provides education, training and employment services sectors with a foundation from which to develop relevant learning products (e.g. Training Packages, curriculum, programs, tools or resources) for addressing the elements of the CSfW most relevant to their sector (see Figure 3 below). There is also potential for tools and resources to be developed from the CSfW for use in the workplace. Figure 3. THE PURPOSE OF THE CSFW Employers and industry have identified the non-technical requirements for successful participation in the workforce The CSfW clearly defines the generic underpinning skills and knowledge needed to meet these requirements Those providing services to learners and job seekers use relevant elements of the CSfW in the development of customised products Workforce Needs The CSfW Learning Products
  • 8. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 5 CONCEPTS UNDERPINNING THE CSFW A developmental approach The CSfW utilises a developmental approach, informed by Dreyfus and Dreyfus’ Novice to Expert Model of Skills Acquisition3 and other research on skill development and performance. It encompasses five stages of performance - Novice, Advanced Beginner, Capable4 , Proficient and Expert. As was recognised in Dreyfus and Dreyfus’ work, the CSfW recognises that: ■ ■ as an individual progresses from the “novice” stage through to later stages of development, their reliance upon explicit ‘rules’ governing action (e.g. instructions, processes, procedures, guidelines, models,) and systematic approaches to work tasks decreases, and their understanding of implicit ‘rules’ (e.g. conventions, expectations), use of judgement and more flexible, intuitive approaches increases ■ ■ practical experience, reflection, motivation and support influence the degree and rate of progress through the stages ■ ■ when an individual moves into a new context (e.g. a new role, organisation or industry/field, or from study into paid employment), while they will not ‘lose’ their skills, their ability to apply them will be diminished until they understand the new context. The CSfW applies these principles to performance in each Skill Area, rather than to work performance as a whole. Therefore, someone could be a novice in paid employment but still demonstrate a higher stage of performance in particular aspects of Skill Areas. For example, someone starting their first paid job may be at the Capable stage in aspects of Communicating for Work related to ‘speaking and listening’ and ‘getting the message across’, but at Novice stage in ‘responding to communication system, practices and protocols’ because they don’t yet understand the systems and practices of the workplace. It is quite possible that an individual will have a ‘spiky profile’ such as this within a Skill Area, and also across Skill Areas. Table 1 (see page 7) provides a generic description of performance at each stage, which is the basis for describing specific performance across each of the five stages in each Skill Area. Context-dependency The context-dependent nature of Core Skills for Work means that the stage of performance at which an individual will operate is highly dependent on their understanding of the situation in which they are applying their skills. For example, someone who is ‘proficient’ at solving problems in one organisation will require some time to build relationships and learn the protocols of a new organisation before they have the situational knowledge and understanding they require to demonstrate proficient performance in the new situation. In the interim, they may need to revert to the formal problem solving processes of a ‘capable’ performer. This means that when using the CSfW, the context in which an individual is operating and their level of familiarity with the context need to be recognised. For example the stage of performance that an individual can demonstrate in an education and training setting is likely to be different from the stage at which they can initially function in a workplace setting. However, as their understanding of the workplace context grows, so will their ability to function at their former level. A number of the skills described in the CSfW assist individuals to adapt and apply their existing skills and knowledge in new contexts. These include skills such as reflection, learning, adopting different viewpoints and developing new ideas. 3 Dreyfus, H. and Dreyfus, S. (1985) Mind over machine: the power of human intuition and expertise in the era of the computer. Free Press, New York 4 The term ‘capable’ has been substituted for the term ‘competent’ used by Dreyfus and Dreyfus because of the specific meaning and use of the term ‘competent’ in the Vocational Education and Training sector.
  • 9. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 6 Relevance to a range of contexts The CSfW’s descriptors are designed to be applicable across different contexts, including different industries and fields and work settings. The term ‘work’ is intended to be applicable not only to employment contexts, but also in education and training, and broader community contexts. For example, the Performance Feature from Skill Area 2c, Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives, says: “Begins to recognise how some personal values and beliefs align with, or differ from those of others in the immediate work context, and may consider how this impacts on interactions and work performance”, can equally apply to working with others: ■ ■ on an activity in a classroom setting ■ ■ to complete a group assessment task ■ ■ in an organisation or project team in paid employment ■ ■ in the form of a client/customer relationship ■ ■ on a committee for a community group. However, performance is not automatically transferrable to new contexts, as application of skills, knowledge and understandings in a new context requires an understanding of that context. Hence, an individual who has only ever applied their skills in a classroom setting will need to learn about the protocols and expectations of a work situation, and gain practical experience in applying their skills in a work environment before they can demonstrate their skills at the same stage of performance within that work context.
  • 10. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 7 Table 1. GENERIC DESCRIPTIONS OF STAGES OF PERFORMANCE STAGES A Novice performer An Advanced Beginner A Capable performer A Proficient performer An Expert performer Has little or no practical experience of the Skill Area on which to base actions. Is highly reliant on explicit ‘rules’ (e.g. instructions, processes, procedures, models), guidance and support and priorities determined by others, to guide activities. Has some practical experience of the Skill Area and is beginning to recognise patterns (e.g. routines, regular responses, links and connections) that help understanding and influence action. Is still reliant on explicit ‘rules’ and on assistance to identify priorities, but can apply these more autonomously in familiar, routine situations. Has sufficient practical experience of the Skill Area to identify patterns and organising principles and establish priorities for action. Can comfortably apply the explicit and implicit ‘rules’ associated with familiar situations. Adopts a systematic, analytical approach to tasks, especially in unfamiliar situations. Has considerable practical experience of the Skill Area in a range of contexts and is moving from reliance on externally prescribed rules to recognition of principles that guide actions. Organises knowledge and practical experience as patterns, concepts and principles, which makes it possible to assess, and respond to situations in an increasingly intuitive and flexible way. Reverts to analysis and seeks guidance when making important decisions. Has extensive practical experience of the Skill Area, with both a big picture understanding and an eye for relevant fine detail. Operates fluidly, intuitively and flexibly in highly complex situations, drawing on knowledge and practical experience organised into highly refined patterns, concepts and principles. Uses a combination of informed intuition and analysis in different situations, recognising that ‘it all depends’. Will often reconceptualise approaches and practices to produce more effective outcomes, while also recognising which rules and principles are always applicable.
  • 11. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 8 STRUCTURE OF THE CSFW The CSfW is comprised of the elements described below. The way in which they are used within the CSfW is illustrated in Table 2 (see page 9). Skill Clusters The Skill Areas that interact most closely with each other are grouped into three broad categories. While Skill Areas within a cluster have a particular affinity, there is also interaction across clusters. Skill Areas The ten Skill Areas are a combination of: ■ ■ Knowledge — what someone knows about in a theoretical or abstract sense, ■ ■ Understanding — how they link it to their personal experience, and ■ ■ Skills — how they put their knowledge and understanding into practice in work settings. The Skill Areas are defined in Table 3 (see page 10). Focus Areas A set of Focus Areas has been identified for each Skill Area. These represent the priority aspects to be considered, and were identified from the literature and consultation. Performance Features Organised by Focus Area, Performance Features describe the kinds of things someone knows, understands and can do at each stage of performance. Although not intended to be treated as a finite list of capabilities, they capture the key characteristics that distinguish one Stage of Performance from another. The Performance Features are described in the tables from page 15 onwards. Influencing Factors At any point in time, performance may also be affected by one or more of a range of factors relevant to the individual concerned and to the context in which they are situated. These Influencing Factors are described in Table 4 (see pages 11-12).
  • 12. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 9 Table 2. STRUCTURE OF THE CSFW FRAMEWORKSkill Cluster Skill Area Focus Areas Novice Advanced Beginner Capable Proficient Expert Navigate the world of work 1a. Manage career and work life Identify work options; Gain work; Develop relevant skills and knowledge See relevant Performance Features tables for details 1b. Work with roles, rights and protocols Work with roles and responsibilities; Operate within legal rights and responsibilities; Recognise and respond to protocols Interact with others 2a. Communicate for work Respond to communication systems, practices and protocols; Speak and listen; Understand, interpret and act; Get the message across See relevant Performance Features tables for details 2b. Connect and work with others Understand self; Build rapport; Cooperate and collaborate 2c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives Recognise different perspectives; Respond to and utilise diverse perspectives; Manage conflict Get the work done 3a. Plan and organise Plan and organise workload and commitments; Plan and implement tasks See relevant Performance Features tables for details 3b. Make decisions Establish decision making scope; Apply decision- making processes; Review impact 3c. Identify and solve problems Identify problems; Apply problem-solving processes; Review outcomes 3d. Create and innovate Recognise opportunities to develop and apply new ideas; Generate ideas; Select ideas for implementation 3e. Work in a digital world Use digitally based technologies and systems; Connect with others; Access, organise, and present information; Manage risk Influencing Factors • existing skills and knowledge • familiarity with the context • complexity of tasks • nature and degree of support • level of autonomy • degree of motivation • self-belief and resilience • cultural and value-based factors • external factors
  • 13. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 10 Table 3. DEFINITIONS OF THE SKILL AREAS SKILLS Navigate the world of work Interact with others Get the work done 1a. Manage career and work life This Skill Area is about managing decisions throughout life about how, when and where to work. It involves the capacity to identify work and career options, to gain work or career advancement, and to undertake learning appropriate to work needs and goals. 1b. Work with roles, rights and protocols This Skill Area is about understanding work roles and workplace rights and expectations. It involves the capacity to identify and manage responsibilities, recognise and respond to legal rights and responsibilities, and to recognise and respond to expectations and accepted practices of work situations. 2a. Communicate for work This Skill Area is about using communication skills to achieve work outcomes. It involves the capacity to recognise communication protocols and etiquette, use communication systems and processes, understand messages and get messages across to others. 2b. Connect and work with others This Skill Area is about building the work-related relationships needed to achieve an outcome within a workgroup, or achieve goals through team based collaborations. It involves the capacity to understand others and build rapport, which in turn involves understanding one’s own values, goals, expectations and emotions, and making choices about regulating one’s own behaviour, taking the needs of others, and the often implicit social rules of the context, into account. 2c. Recognise and utilise diverse perspectives This Skill Area is about the capacity to recognise and respond to differing values, beliefs and behaviours, to draw on diverse perspectives for work purposes and to manage conflict when it arises. 3a. Plan and organise This Skill Area is about identifying and completing the steps needed to undertake tasks and manage workloads. This involves the capacity to organise self and information, plan and implement tasks, and plan and organise workloads. 3b. Make decisions This Skill Area is about making a choice from a range of possibilities. It involves the capacity to use different decision-making approaches and to reflect on the outcomes of decisions. 3c. Identify and solve problems This Skill Area is about identifying and addressing routine and non-routine problems in order to achieve work objectives. This involves the capacity to anticipate or identify problems, take steps to solve problems and reflect on the outcomes. 3d. Create and innovate This Skill Area is about creating, applying and recognising the value of new ideas to solve problems, improve or develop new processes, products or strategies, or deliver new benefits. It involves the capacity to challenge perceptions of how things are, and how they might be, and to recognise a potential opportunity. It also involves the use of formal processes to challenge and extend initial perceptions of a situation, and generate, and select from, a range of new ideas. 3e. Work in a digital world This Skill Area refers to the capacity to connect to other people, information and contexts for work-related purposes using digital systems and technology. It involves understanding concepts and language associated with the digital world and the capacity to understand and work with emerging/accepted etiquette and risks associated with online environments. It also involves identifying how digital technology and digitally based systems can extend, enhance or make possible specific aspects of a role or task, and create new opportunities.
  • 14. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 11 Table 4. INFLUENCING FACTORS Existing skills and knowledge At any point in time, an individual’s capacity to apply any of the Core Skills for Work may be influenced by their technical skills and LLN skills. For example, developing and using skills in the Skill Area ‘Communicate for Work’ will be dependent on having the associated LLN skills, and capacity to ‘Identify and Solve problems’ in a work context may also require relevant technical knowledge, skills and understandings. Individuals may also be able to draw on skills and understandings developed in a non-work context. For example, someone with extensive experience of planning and organising complex community events may be able to adapt principles and concepts learnt through that experience to a work context, and may move through the stages of development more quickly than someone who has limited practical experience of that Skill Area on which to draw. Familiarity with the context Just as overall work performance is highly dependent upon an individual’s level of familiarity with the context, performance in a specific Skill Area will also be influenced by context familiarity. Context could include a particular environment (such as a workplace or study environment), an industry or field, an organisation or part of an organisation, a role type, a specific role or a task. Familiarity might include knowledge and understanding of aspects of the context such as the language, conventions and expectations, as well as the people and workplace culture, role requirements and tasks. When an individual changes context, their performance in a Skill Area may alter significantly. For example, a capable problem solver in one organisation automatically implements appropriate measures to resolve familiar, routine issues. In a new organisation, many aspects of the situation will also be new, and they may find themselves operating at the novice or advanced beginner stage of problem solving for a time until they develop an understanding of how things are supposed to work in the new context and skills in applying the new rules. Complexity of tasks Work performance will diminish if the complexity of the tasks an individual is required to undertake is beyond their level of capability and confidence. Novices in a specific Skill Area will perform best if they apply their skills within well defined, highly predictable concrete tasks of one or two steps, whereas a distinguishing feature of expert performance in any Skill Area is the capacity to apply the relevant skills and knowledge in complex situations involving multiple variables, interpretations and options for action. Nature and degree of support Appropriate support has been shown to have a significant influence on work performance, facilitating the nature, degree and efficiency of an individual’s learning, assisting them to gain information and insights, identify critical issues and set priorities, and providing feedback that contributes to their continuing development. Support can take many forms e.g. guidance, supervision, mentoring, peer support, organisation manuals, training and development activities, online and external information sources, external expertise and networks. The type and source of support that is most likely to be beneficial depends on a range of variables, including an individual’s stage of development in any of the Skill Areas. For example, an Advanced Beginner in a specific Skill Area may benefit from a combination of clear guidelines, close supervision and some specified areas of autonomy, while a proficient performer is likely to become frustrated by close supervision and limited autonomy, but will be highly motivated, and extend their skills when given challenges and opportunities to work closely with, and receive coaching from, an expert performer in that Skill Area.
  • 15. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 12 Level of autonomy Autonomy can encompass choices about what to do, when to do it, how to do it and who to do it with, and has been identified as a key factor in motivation to learn. It may be linked to the degree of responsibility and accountability an individual takes, or is given, for outcomes. It can also impact on the extent to which an individual is able to demonstrate the full extent of skills such as creativity, flexibility, problem-solving and decision making. Therefore providing opportunities to make choices and reflect on their effectiveness can assist an individual to develop new skills and understandings. However, while individuals at any stage of development may benefit from some form of autonomy, the appropriate nature and degree of autonomy depends on the stage of performance. For example, novices and advanced beginners need clear structures, guidelines and high support with clearly defined areas of autonomy whereas proficient and expert performers benefit from a high degree of autonomy. Degree of motivation Motivation may be intrinsic (internally driven) or extrinsic (externally driven). Extrinsic motivation is driven by an individual’s awareness of external rewards and potential adverse consequences. Intrinsic motivation is influenced by an individual’s own areas of interest and by their perception of whether something matters. Intrinsic motivation to develop in a particular Skill Area will therefore be stronger when an individual can see how this will assist in achieving something they value or where they perceive that performance in the Skill Area itself is important in its own right. Self-belief and resilience The belief that one can perform a task or further develop a skill, and the capacity to be resilient when faced with challenges, strongly influence the ways in which individuals perform and further develop their skills and knowledge. Individuals with high self-belief and resilience are more likely to look forward to, and be successful in work performance, and this in turn contributes to increased self-belief and resilience, and the desire to take on new challenges and improve skills further. Self belief and resilience also affect an individual’s empathy and sensitivity to others, ability to cope under pressure and to deal with work-related politics. Cultural and value-based factors Workplace culture and values underpin the types of attitudes and attributes valued in work contexts, such as enthusiasm, initiative and commitment. They can also support or inhibit the creation of an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, creativity and innovation. Workplace culture and values can be explicit, such as those promoted in codes of conduct or workplace policies, or implicit in the accepted behaviour, reward systems and power structures of the workplace. Individuals’ values and cultural background affect the attitudes they bring with them to work, as well as their ability to understand and operate within the culture of a workplace. The culture and values of both the individual and the work situation affect the ability of an individual to demonstrate and develop the behaviours required for success in work, and will influence expectations about the nature of specific Core Skills for Work, e.g. accepted ways of interacting, communicating and managing conflict in the work context. External factors Circumstances outside of the work context may have a significant influence on individuals’ ability to successfully participate in work, their work performance overall and/or their capacity to develop and apply Core Skills for Work. External factors include health, transport, housing arrangements, family responsibilities, social networks and other personal circumstances. They also include broader environmental factors such as the economic climate and labour market conditions. Table 4. INFLUENCING FACTORS (Continued)
  • 16. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 13 USING THE CSFW The Performance Features The detailed Performance Features describe the kinds of skills, knowledge and understandings that an individual might demonstrate when they are operating at a particular Stage of Performance in a particular Skill Area. They can be used to identify what stage an individual is at in their development at a particular point in time and in a particular context. This provides a basis for: ■ ■ articulating and building on an individual’s current strengths ■ ■ focusing learning and development activities on any gaps in skills, knowledge or understanding ■ ■ providing a guide as to what individuals might do to continue their development in particular Skill Areas ■ ■ identifying the nature and degree of support required, and the types of practical experience and challenges that might facilitate further learning and development ■ ■ developing shared and realistic expectations about the appropriate Stage of Performance for an individual in a particular context and timeframe. As the CSfW aims to be applicable across a broad range of diverse contexts, the Performance Features are deliberately generic. However, they can be customised for use in particular contexts by adding specific examples of what performance might look like in that context, or by changing the language of the Performance Features themselves. For example, one of the Performance Features from Skill Area 1b, work with roles, rights and protocols, says “Understands how own role meshes with others and contributes to broader work goals”. Customising it for a particular context might involve specifying what the ‘others’ are (e.g. other roles in their organisation, or in their project team) and what the ‘broader work goals’ relate to (e.g. to their organisation, or to their field). A diagnostic tool might then also describe how they might demonstrate their understanding within the context (e.g. explain, identify, describe or do). The Performance Features can also be used to inform the design of learning products (such as programs, curriculum, learning resources and diagnostic and self-assessment tools) and processes. The Influencing Factors Influencing Factors such as ‘nature and degree of support’, ‘complexity of tasks’ and ‘level of autonomy’ impact on performance, and play an important role in facilitating or inhibiting learning and development, as do opportunities for practice and reflection and for new experiences and challenges. For example, a novice in Skill Area 1b, Recognise and respond to protocols, ‘Working with roles, rights and protocols’ who wishes to progress to advanced beginner in this Skills Area, may benefit from: ■ ■ opportunities for greater autonomy in decision-making in relation to some aspects of tasks ■ ■ opportunities to take on slightly more challenging tasks, with support available for questions or problems that might arise ■ ■ guidance in identifying and understanding implicit aspects of protocols, or to reflect on an experience when explicit protocols weren’t met ■ ■ a specific training intervention to increase understanding of legal rights and responsibilities.
  • 17. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 14 The Influencing Factors also provide a potential focus for specific learning and development activities and tools. For example, they could be used as a basis for developing activities and tools: ■ ■ to assist individuals to understand the cultural and value-based factors that may affect their work choices, to identify external factors that might need to be addressed in order to gain and maintain work, or to strengthen their self-belief and resilience ■ ■ to assist employers, trainers, educators and those who work with job seekers in identifying factors within their control that may be having a positive or negative impact on an individual’s capacity to develop and demonstrate particular skills (e.g. nature and degree of support) and in considering the type and nature of tasks that may be appropriate for an individual to undertake at a particular stage of performance (e.g. level of complexity, level of autonomy).
  • 18. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 15 PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLES The Performance Features tables describe the kinds of things that someone knows, understands and can do at each stage of the five stages of performance. The descriptors for each of the ten Skill Areas are grouped together under Focus Areas specific to that Skill Area. A definition of the Skill Area and list of key terms and concepts are provided prior to each Performance Features table.
  • 19. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 16 1A. MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE Definition: This Skill Area is about managing decisions throughout life about how, when and where to work. It involves the capacity to identify work and career options, to gain work or career advancement, and to undertake learning appropriate to work needs and goals. Key terms and concepts: Work – is activity involving mental and/or physical effort that is directed towards a specific purpose. Work options – may relate to particular industries, fields or occupations, may be paid or unpaid and may be conducted under any type of work arrangement, including self- employment, casual, part or full-time employment, flexible or remote. Work life – refers to decisions regarding the conditions under which a person works, such as role, responsibilities, hours, remuneration and other benefits, location, travel. A person’s range of choices may be enhanced or restricted at any point in time by a range of factors. Career – is the sequence and variety of occupations, including paid and unpaid work, which a person undertakes throughout a lifetime. Traditionally, the term was associated with paid employment and was likely to refer to a single occupation. However, now the term ‘career’ is seen as a continuous lifelong process involving work choices and associated learning that may cross occupations and draw on skills and knowledge developed in paid or voluntary work, or through family and community involvement and leisure activities. Career Development – is an explicit process involving the decisions individuals make as they attempt to shape their work lives. It is a unique process for each individual, involving choices about occupations, roles, tasks and associated learning, sometimes with a specific goal in mind, and other times in response to unpredicted, unplanned events or chance encounters. It may involve the traditional concept of moving ‘up’ through a hierarchy of better paid and/or influential roles, but also decisions about which tasks to take on within a role or whether to move ‘sideways’ or ‘down’ in order to satisfy personal interests and needs, gain experience and develop or demonstrate expertise. Factors influencing career and work life decisions – may include personal interests, values, goals and expectations, occupational or organisational goals, requirements and expectations, family, culture, community, school, socioeconomic circumstances, geographic location, the labour market, task or organisational arrangements such as child care availability, work from home options. Techniques/strategies for seeking and applying for work – might include verbal or written enquiries, monitoring job vacancies and industry developments, accessing online job sites, approaching employment agencies, using written applications, completing job interviews, creating a professional online profile, establishing and using contacts and networks, using formal online channels such as professional networking sites, and informal channels such as social media sites and blogs. Learning – includes all types of formal, non-formal and informal learning relevant to gaining, keeping and improving performance in a job. It includes structured education and training, on-the-job learning such as mentoring and job rotations, learning that occurs through reading, observation, practice and reflection within a work context or in non work settings, such as engagement in volunteer organisations and community activities.
  • 20. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 17 PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE Focus Areas A Novice in managing career and work life: An Advanced Beginner in managing career and work life: A Capable performer in managing career and work life: A Proficient performer in managing career and work life: An Expert in managing career and work life: Identify work options Begins to recognise some personal skills, interests and preferences May take some steps to access information and support in making career and work decisions With assistance, identifies a limited range of work options directly related to present position or interests, or suitable to meet immediate needs With assistance, identifies any specific qualifications, experience and/or skills needed and with encouragement, may take up formal training in a relevant area or take up a volunteer position to gain necessary experience With assistance, identifies barriers to entry into chosen area and some strategies to address these With encouragement, may seek formal training where required Begins to develop some insights into personal goals, preferences and aptitudes relevant to work, based on some practical experience Targets some specific occupations and work options, and takes some steps to identify required qualifications, skills and experience Identifies and finds ways to address some factors that may be acting as barriers to gaining work and developing career Seeks advice and guidance when unsure about what to do next or how to go about it Draws on past experience to identify preferences, skills and aptitudes and preferred occupation or work roles Attempts to take control of factors influencing personal career and work life decisions Uses a systematic process for developing career, identifying and researching employment options and associated skill and qualification requirements Develops career plans, identifies pathways, and takes some steps to address immediate barriers and skill gaps that are within own control Recognises the value of advice, and seeks assistance for on-going career planning and development Begins to broaden areas of interest and focus, seeking new challenges and recognising that expertise can be adapted and applied in diverse contexts Recognises the complexity of factors influencing career decisions and career development e.g. changes in life roles and goals, unpredicted events Regularly reviews current situation and future career and work options, developing strategies to address some factors that may limit choices, and accepting those that may be outside own control at a particular point in time May intuitively identify a new opportunity, then seek advice from trusted advisors before making a decision Keeps abreast of trends and issues, appreciating that the world of work is dynamic, with changing needs and priorities, and that career development is not a linear process that can be closely controlled Operates from a broad, general career strategy reflecting a clear sense of personal values, interests, goals and priorities, challenging and revising career plans in response to actual or potential contextual and personal changes Explores the potential to adjust own expectations, skills and knowledge to suit a role, or may develop a new role suited to expertise e.g. launch a new venture May act intuitively to take advantage of a new option or adapt to unpredicted events
  • 21. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 18 Focus Areas A Novice in managing career and work life: An Advanced Beginner in managing career and work life: A Capable performer in managing career and work life: A Proficient performer in managing career and work life: An Expert in managing career and work life: Gain work With assistance, uses a limited set of strategies for identifying and applying for jobs e.g. Jobsguide, career counsellor, simple resume template Identifies some specific expectations associated with particular job (e.g. appropriate personal presentation, skill set) and may seek assistance to address these Independently uses a small range of strategies for seeking work or career advancement Takes some steps to describe own skills, knowledge and experience in terms that address specific job criteria and considers how to present self appropriately Uses a range of strategies and resources when identifying and applying for a new role Describes skills, knowledge and experience in relation to stated job requirements Takes some steps to find out more about a potential position and plans how to make a positive impression Identifies and uses a broad range of strategies and resources to find and gain work and is beginning to utilise the power of personal contacts Researches potential work options in order to focus on key requirements, select relevant examples of past experience and maximise the impact of personal presentation Applies and adapts a wide range of strategies and resources to identify and gain work, particularly through networks and contacts Tailors approaches and presentations to potential clients or employers to illustrate a strong understanding of and match with the nature and requirements of the role PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE (Continued)
  • 22. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 19 Focus Areas A Novice in managing career and work life: An Advanced Beginner in managing career and work life: A Capable performer in managing career and work life: A Proficient performer in managing career and work life: An Expert in managing career and work life: Develop relevant skills and knowledge Within a job role, may need encouragement to ask for additional assistance and guidance Participates in formal training requirements and skill development opportunities as required by others May seek new learning opportunities Takes steps to develop skills, obtain qualifications and/or experience relevant to current or desired work role With encouragement, may seek feedback on work performance from a trusted source Develops skills and knowledge related to current role through sharing and reflecting on practical experience and feedback and through formal training Begins to recognise the importance of on-going learning and may initiate and implement a formal learning plan aligned with career goals, or utilise established work based programs May begin to use reflection on experience as a way of identifying transferable principles and concepts May actively seek feedback as a source of insight into strengths and areas for improvement Recognises the importance of developing both technical and non- technical skills and of learning from feedback and self-reflection Formally reflects on performance as an integral part of own development e.g. through keeping a journal, sharing with peers, coaching or mentoring sessions and feedback from others Identifies transferable principles and concepts Sets own learning challenges, using formal and informal opportunities to develop knowledge, skills and insight Treats every activity as a source of insights and reflects on performance as an integral part of work life, using a range of formal and informal processes Actively seeks feedback from a wide range of sources Identifies innovative ways of developing and sharing skills and knowledge with others PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1A – MANAGE CAREER AND WORK LIFE (Continued)
  • 23. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 20 1B. WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS Definition: This Skill Area is about understanding work roles and workplace rights and expectations. It involves the capacity to identify and manage responsibilities, recognise and respond to legal rights and responsibilities, and to recognise and respond to expectations and accepted practices of work situations. Key terms and concepts: Role – refers not only to a group of tasks and responsibilities related to a particular position in a work situation, but also the sense of purpose and patterns of behaviour that a person brings to it. For example, a person might have a job description that stipulates that they are responsible for a series of tasks, but they may also see themselves as playing a leadership role, which involves behaving in certain ways. Responsibilities – refers to the duties associated with a work role and the degree of autonomy to determine what is done, with whom, by when and by what means. Legal rights and responsibilities – as stipulated in legislation and regulations related to conditions of employment, equal opportunity and discrimination, safe work practices etc. Protocols – the rules, procedures, common practices or expectations governing behaviour in a work situation. Protocols may be explicit, such as those detailed in policy and procedure manuals, or implicit, such those arising from the cultures and customs of different work contexts. Sources of support – may include supervisors, peers, work colleagues, policy and procedure manuals, training and development activities, online and external information sources, external expertise and networks.
  • 24. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 21 Focus Areas A Novice in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Advanced Beginner in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Capable performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Proficient performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Expert in working with roles, rights and protocols: Work with roles and responsibilities May need guidance to identify the tasks and responsibilities associated with own role Follows instructions to complete a limited set of well-defined tasks that may involve some limited and clearly defined areas of personal responsibility Attempts to follow directions on the scope of responsibility within the role and begins to recognise when to involve others e.g. supervisor Understands main tasks, responsibilities and boundaries of own role May take some responsibility for decisions regarding when and how to complete tasks, co-ordinate with or delegate to others Understands the nature and purpose of own role and associated responsibilities, and how it contributes to the work of others in the immediate work context Takes responsibility for decisions about when and how to complete tasks and coordinate with others Feels personal ownership of outcomes Understands how own role meshes with others and contributes to broader work goals Works independently and collectively within broad parameters, with a strong sense of responsibility and ownership of goals, plans, decisions and outcomes May reflect on designation of roles and responsibilities and identify changes that would improve collective outcomes Considers own role in terms of its contribution to broader goals of the work environment (eg. goals of an organisation or a field/industry) and adapts and renegotiates role and responsibilities when this has the potential to increase effectiveness Is highly autonomous, taking responsibility and ownership for most or all aspects of own work, intuitively recognising and managing factors that may affect achievement of outcomes PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS
  • 25. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 22 Focus Areas A Novice in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Advanced Beginner in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Capable performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Proficient performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Expert in working with roles, rights and protocols: Operate within legal rights and responsibilities With guidance, identifies main legal rights and responsibilities and some practical implications for own role, e.g. health and safety requirements, award agreement May need encouragement to seek support if problems arise Understands own rights in the immediate work context Takes some personal responsibility for adherence to legal and regulatory requirements and seeks clarification or other assistance when required Understands own rights and raises issues if these are not respected Appreciates the implications of legal and regulatory responsibilities related to own work, and is beginning to recognise some general legal principles applicable across work contexts Takes personal responsibility for adherence to legal/regulatory responsibilities relevant to own work context, and draws attention to any issues that may affect self or others Understands own legal rights and responsibilities and is extending understanding of general legal principles applicable across work contexts Keeps up to date on changes to legislation or regulations relevant to own rights and responsibilities and considers implications of these when negotiating, planning and undertaking work May recognise problems that have the potential to become legal issues and takes steps to address them before they escalate Monitors adherence to legal and regulatory rights and responsibilities for self and possibly others May develop and implement strategies to raise awareness and change behaviours that might undermine rights and responsibilities e.g. ways of achieving equal opportunity, improving safety PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS (Continued)
  • 26. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 23 Focus Areas A Novice in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Advanced Beginner in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Capable performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: A Proficient performer in working with roles, rights and protocols: An Expert in working with roles, rights and protocols: Recognise and respond to protocols Begins to recognises that different organisations have expectations and rules related to how work is to be done and to personal conduct Focuses on meeting a limited range of explicit protocols e.g. attendance, dress code, safety May need encouragement to ask for clarification when unsure of what to do Generally follows the explicit protocols immediately related to role Begins to recognise implicit expectations and takes some steps to meet these Recognises and follows explicit and implicit protocols and meets expectations associated with own role Seeks advice about procedures and expectations when taking on new tasks or roles Recognises and responds to both explicit and implicit protocols within familiar work contexts and appreciates the importance of identifying and responding to protocols in new situations May seek to make implicit protocols and expectations more explicit, and may challenge those that appear to work against effective outcomes, or do not reflect stated values Recognises protocols that must be respected and maintained, and identifies those that may no longer be serving a useful purpose Knows when and how to challenge some protocols to better align with organisational or personal goals and values and achieve outcomes more efficiently and effectively PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 1B – WORK WITH ROLES, RIGHTS AND PROTOCOLS (Continued)
  • 27. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 24 2A. COMMUNICATE FOR WORK Definition: This Skill Area is about using communication skills to achieve work outcomes. It involves the capacity to recognise communication protocols and etiquette, use communication systems and processes, understand messages and get messages across to others. Key terms and concepts: Language – in its broadest sense, language involves the words, verbal structures and gestures used to convey or understand meaning. It also includes visual communication skills, including Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN). Communication practices and protocols – refer to the explicit and implicit ‘rules’ or conventions that govern communication in different settings and with different people. For example, there may be protocols surrounding what and how to communicate with those in a position of authority, or with people from a particular cultural background. There may also be implicit social conventions about the kind of language that is expected and considered acceptable in different circumstances. These practices and protocols have a strong influence on the choices an individual makes when communicating such as choice of vocabulary, tone, non- verbal behaviour. They may also influence how others interpret those choices e.g. as interested, respectful, rude, persuasive, assertive, aggressive. Message – is used broadly to refer to any work related unit of communication, and may be oral, written or visual. Messages contain information, news, advice, requests etc and may be captured in many different ways e.g. written documents, plans, verbal instructions, diagrams. Visual and sensory messages are transmitted and received through actions such as a raised eyebrow, a smile or a handshake. Messages may carry both explicit and implicit meanings, themes and ideas, and may be interpreted in different ways by different people. Communication channel – the route of a message through one or more of three broad media – written, spoken and non verbal e.g. face to face interaction, print or broadcast (electronic) media. Mode – is the choice of communication method e.g. spoken, written, visual; formal, informal. Vocational vocabulary – refers to the language of a particular field of work. This includes specific technical terminology, but also words and phrases that carry specific meanings within that field e.g. the term ‘cookie’ carries a different meaning for a lighting rigger, a baker and an IT worker.
  • 28. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 25 Focus Areas A Novice in communicating for work: An Advanced Beginner in communicating for work: A Capable performer in communicating for work: A Proficient performer in communicating for work: An Expert in communicating for work: Respond to communication systems, practices and protocols Attempts to follow instructions regarding what to communicate, with whom and how Demonstrates some awareness of the differences between work related and social communication and some understanding of accepted communication conventions in a work context Generally understands what to communicate, with whom and how in highly familiar, routine work situations Identifies, and takes steps to follow, accepted communication practices and protocols in immediate work context e.g. ways of communicating with those in authority Understands what to communicate, with whom and how in routine work situations, and is learning how to identify the requirements of less familiar contexts Selects and uses the appropriate conventions and protocols when communicating in a range of familiar work contexts Recognises and applies the protocols governing what to communicate, with whom and how in a range of work contexts Seeks opportunities to extend and apply understanding beyond own role, and has strategies for determining the requirements of new situations Begins to recognise the implications of implicit rules that govern who communicates with whom, how and for what purpose, including those associated with power and status Selects appropriate communication protocols and conventions in a broad range of work contexts, with a growing awareness of the sometimes subtle impacts of choices made Demonstrates a finely nuanced understanding of what to communicate, with whom and how in a broad range of work contexts Is highly sensitive to the impact of explicit and implicit communication practices and protocols, and pays close attention to the subtleties of every situation Masterfully manipulates communication systems, processes and practices, selecting, using and adapting them for maximum impact PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK
  • 29. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 26 Focus Areas A Novice in communicating for work: An Advanced Beginner in communicating for work: A Capable performer in communicating for work: A Proficient performer in communicating for work: An Expert in communicating for work: Speak and listen Observes, listens and, with encouragement, may contribute to conversations directly relevant to own role Begins to use appropriate language, tone and non-verbal behaviours during interactions in the immediate work context May use simple ‘scripts’ developed by others for routine task related interactions e.g. greeting a client, answering a phone Participates in routine conversations directly relevant to role, responding and contributing in ways that are generally appropriate in the context Generally uses language, tone and non- verbal behaviours considered appropriate in the context May begin to personalise approaches to routine task related interactions Initiates and contributes to a range of formal and informal conversations relevant to role, responding, explaining, clarifying and expanding on ideas and information as required Listens for required information and asks clarifying questions Pays some attention to the needs and responses of other participants, making some adjustments to language, vocabulary, tone and style as required Personalises approaches to routine task related interactions Participates in complex formal and informal conversations relevant to own role, initiating and taking the lead where appropriate Uses active listening, observational and questioning techniques in order to identify different perspectives and confirm, clarify or revise understanding Adapts content, emphasis, tone, language, vocabulary and non-verbal behaviours as required to build rapport or repair misunderstanding Initiates, participates and/or takes the lead in complex conversations, establishing rapport, encouraging contributions, eliciting ideas and information, clarifying, summarising and building constructively on the input of others Uses highly developed listening, observational and questioning skills to understand others’ perspectives and clarify, explore, extend and repair meaning PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
  • 30. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 27 Focus Areas A Novice in communicating for work: An Advanced Beginner in communicating for work: A Capable performer in communicating for work: A Proficient performer in communicating for work: An Expert in communicating for work: Understand, interpret and act Identifies and responds to some relevant information from communications associated with familiar aspects of role e.g. requests, directions With encouragement, may ask questions to seek information or clarify instructions Identifies the main information from oral and written communication, and generally responds appropriately Asks some questions to clarify understanding, or seek further information Responds appropriately to routine requests for information Recognises the purpose of various communications directly relevant to own role Accurately identifies relevant information from routine written and oral messages and exchanges and from written documents Seeks clarification when meanings and intended actions are obviously open to interpretation Provides relevant information to others as required Considers the purpose and possible actions to be taken as a result of any work related communication Identifies relevant information and ideas from a range of messages and oral and written exchanges, paying some attention to the meanings attached to the choice of form, channel and wording Begins to recognise how personal, social and cultural factors may influence people’s understanding of any communication, and is learning to question own interpretation and seek clarification where required Clarifies the purpose and possible actions to be taken as a result of any work related communication, recognising that effective communication is always a means to an end Recognises that all communication is an interactive process of meaning making, and that all exchanges carry explicit and implicit meanings whose interpretation is influenced by the perceptions of those involved, and by a complex array of social and cultural factors Pays close attention to understanding explicit and hidden meanings, routinely seeking clarification where misinterpretation might create issues PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
  • 31. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 28 Focus Areas A Novice in communicating for work: An Advanced Beginner in communicating for work: A Capable performer in communicating for work: A Proficient performer in communicating for work: An Expert in communicating for work: Get the message across Begins to use some routine forms of written communication relevant to immediate work role with a limited awareness of requirements and expectations e.g. main information required May follow scripts or use templates for routine communication tasks e.g. standard email formats, incident reports Is aware that some language used in the workplace is specific to the job Selects from small range of communication modes, forms and channels to meet a specific purpose within the immediate work environment Constructs a message with some understanding of purpose, audience needs and expectations, Generally uses appropriate vocabulary, including technical language directly relevant to role Selects the appropriate form, channel and mode of communication for a specific purpose relevant to own role Takes some steps to vary content, structure, style, tone and vocabulary to suit the needs of familiar audiences and/or to achieve a desired outcome e.g. to persuade, to gain assistance Uses appropriate vocabulary, including technical language relevant to role and context Recognises the importance of taking audience, purpose and contextual factors into account when making decisions about what to communicate, with whom, why and how Actively identifies the requirements of important communication exchanges, selecting appropriate channels, format, tone and content to suit purpose and audience and monitoring impact Demonstrates an increasing capacity to manipulate oral, visual and/or written formats to achieve a specific purpose (e.g. to gain funding, convey an idea, present a plan), with full command of vocabulary relevant to the context Demonstrates sophisticated control over oral, visual and/ or written formats, drawing on a diverse range of communication practices to achieve goals Intuitively tailors every communication to achieve its purpose, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the needs, interests, issues and priorities of each audience Pays close attention to the selection of aspects such as mode, channel and form, recognising the ways in which they may influence interpretation of a message and appreciating the subtleties of each e.g. understands how choice of the communication form itself communicates something, or that staying silent can sometimes be the most effective option PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2A – COMMUNICATE FOR WORK (Continued)
  • 32. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 29 2B. CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS Definition: This Skill Area is about building the work-related relationships needed to achieve an outcome within a workgroup, or achieve goals through team based collaborations. It involves the capacity to understand others and build rapport, which in turn involves understanding one’s own values, goals, expectations and emotions, and making choices about regulating one’s own behaviour, taking the needs of others, and the often implicit social rules of the context, into account. Key terms and concepts: Interacting – acting towards others or with others in order to get the work done. The focus in the CSfW is on social and work related interactions involving direct contact with people within a work context generally and within a workgroup or team specifically. Co-operate – to assist someone or comply with their requests. Collaborate – to work jointly towards the same end. Interpersonal skills – the capacity to use specific forms of behaviour in face-to-face or virtual interactions, to bring about a desired state of affairs. Rapport – a relationship of mutual understanding and trust in which those involved feel comfortable and accepted. Empathy – the capacity to identify with, and understand, another’s situation, feelings, and motives. Workgroup – a group of people with individual roles, responsibilities, tasks and accountability who come together to share information and perspectives and who may collaborate to achieve outcomes Team – a highly sophisticated form of workgroup made up of a small number of people with complementary knowledge and skills who are committed to a common purpose and approach for which they hold themselves mutually accountable. An effective team focuses explicitly on building and maintaining understanding and trust, and designs and manages the processes that support effective interaction. Working relationship – a relationship with a colleague, employer or employee. In a positive working relationship, those involved are on good terms and usually feel some personal compatibility based on values, beliefs and interests. In an effective working relationship, those involved understand and respect each other’s values, perspectives and skills, and work together to achieve outcomes without necessarily feeling closely compatible on a personal level.
  • 33. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 30 Focus Areas A Novice in connecting and working with others: An Advanced Beginner in connecting and working with others: A Capable performer in connecting and working with others: A Proficient performer in connecting and working with others: An Expert in connecting and working with others: Understand self With assistance, begins to recognise some personal strengths and challenges associated with interacting with others in work contexts With guidance, is becoming aware of some of the impacts of own emotions and behaviours on others in a work setting With assistance, begins to recognise how personal values and beliefs align with, or differ from those of others in specific work contexts Recognises some personal strengths and challenges associated with interacting with others in work contexts Begins to recognise some ways in which own emotions may impact on personal behaviour and attempts to manage responses to particular situations and people Is developing an awareness of the impact of own emotions and behaviours on others Recognises how personal values and beliefs align with, or differ from those of others in specific work contexts and ways in which this can affect own responses to others Recognises some strengths and weaknesses of own interpersonal skills in work contexts and may identify one or more areas to develop Recognises some triggers for specific emotions and ways in which these emotions are reflected in behaviour, and uses a small set of strategies to moderate aspects that may cause problems for others May seek guidance and training in specific areas Reflects on personal values, beliefs and assumptions and considers how these might be perceived by others Identifies strengths and limitations of own interpersonal skills and addresses areas that would benefit from further development Begins to seek feedback about own behaviour from others, and is learning how to moderate own reactions when this feedback challenges self perceptions Identifies key triggers for specific emotions and behaviours, and uses a range of strategies to moderate responses that cause unnecessary problems for others Pays close attention to those with highly developed interpersonal skills, consciously learning from what they say, how they say it and what they do when interacting with others, particularly in potentially difficult situations Sets time aside for self reflection, recognising personal strengths and limitations and exploring beliefs and assumptions about own behaviour and that of others Identifies and addresses areas of need, monitoring progress by observing the reactions of others and seeking explicit feedback Recognises that responses to events and other peoples are a choice and actively monitors and seeks to regulate own reactions, particularly where these involve anger, fear and frustration Seeks expert advice and skills training where required PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS
  • 34. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 31 Focus Areas A Novice in connecting and working with others: An Advanced Beginner in connecting and working with others: A Capable performer in connecting and working with others: A Proficient performer in connecting and working with others: An Expert in connecting and working with others: Build rapport With encouragement, attempts to establish a connection with one or two people in immediate work context e.g. may smile, introduce self to immediate peers, respond to acknowledgement from others May respond to advice about accepted ways of interacting in the immediate work context Establishes connections with a number of people in immediate work context, using some accepted practices for building rapport e.g. adapts tone, content and language to reflect that used by others Uses a range of strategies to establish a sense of connection with others e.g. looks for common ground, makes casual conversation around a topic of interest to the other party Pays attention to the behaviour of others, interpreting a broad range of verbal and non verbal signals, and asking some questions to help understand others’ thoughts and feelings Begins to recognise and accommodate individual differences of perspective and priority Monitors responses from others, and may adjust aspects of own behaviour Recognises the importance of building rapport in order to establish effective working relationships Looks for ways of establishing connections and building genuine understanding with a diverse range of people e.g. makes a habit of remembering names and other personal details, shares own personal information Recognises and values individual differences, seeking to better understand other perspectives and judging when it is appropriate to modify own behaviour to create stronger rapport e.g. picks up non-verbal signals that someone is uncomfortable and changes content, tone, language or speed of delivery Invests time and energy in building rapport with others as an integral part of all work based interactions Draws on a small set of governing principles learnt through experience e.g. listen more than talk, genuinely try to understand what the situation looks like to someone else Uses non verbal behaviour effectively to put others at ease, taking account of cultural differences where appropriate e.g. mirrors and matches tone and body language Acknowledges the needs and points of view of others and modifies own behaviour where it will help to build rapport without compromising own core values and principles PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
  • 35. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 32 Focus Areas A Novice in connecting and working with others: An Advanced Beginner in connecting and working with others: A Capable performer in connecting and working with others: A Proficient performer in connecting and working with others: An Expert in connecting and working with others: Cooperate and collaborate continued over page Responds to clear requests May contribute to workgroup processes when invited to do so, recognising and following some basic conventions of social interactions e.g. turn taking Identifies one or two people to ask for help Seeks to cooperate with others to achieve results in immediate work context e.g. complies with requests, offers assistance with familiar tasks Is learning to contribute to specific activities requiring joint responsibility and accountability Contributes to workgroup discussions, recognising and following accepted conventions of social interaction Is beginning to recognise who best to go to when things are not working as expected Cooperates with others as part of familiar routine activities, and contributes to specific activities requiring joint responsibility and accountability Plays an active role in workgroup discussions, paying some attention to the perspectives of others Takes responsibility for meeting commitments to others e.g. Keeps others informed of progress, meets agreed deadlines, discusses problems and seeks help when required Is learning to look for the strengths in others Recognises and avoids some of the behaviours that undermine effective interpersonal and group interaction e. g. malicious gossip Demonstrates an increasing awareness of the interplay of factors involved in any group interaction e.g. work and personal goals, culture, age, gender, expectations, emotional needs and behaviours Seeks to enhance own performance in work groups and teams, recognising that this requires focused effort and specific skills Collaborates with others to achieve joint outcomes, playing an active role in facilitating effective group interaction, influencing direction and taking a leadership role on occasion Looks for the strengths in others and finds ways to work with, and build on these, sharing own knowledge and experience freely Invests considerable time and energy in building and maintaining effective working relationships within and beyond immediate work context, recognising and intuitively responding to the subtle and complex mix of factors at play in every interaction Fosters a collaborative culture within own sphere of influence, facilitating a sense of commitment and cohesion, and highlighting and using the strengths of those involved Plays a lead role in situations requiring effective collaborative, demonstrating high level influencing skills, focusing and shaping awareness, and engaging and motivating others, including those who are geographically dispersed PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
  • 36. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 33 Focus Areas A Novice in connecting and working with others: An Advanced Beginner in connecting and working with others: A Capable performer in connecting and working with others: A Proficient performer in connecting and working with others: An Expert in connecting and working with others: Cooperate and collaborate continued Shares information and resources, offers assistance voluntarily and provides feedback on others’ work when requested Begins to recognise that there are different kinds of working relationships that can serve different purposes Begins to form connections with others who can contribute to effective work outcomes e.g. Cultivates a small informal network of people who may be able to provide advice or influence the progress of specific tasks Avoids behaviours that undermine effective interpersonal and group interaction and group cohesion e.g. private criticism of group decisions, breaking a confidence Is learning to provide feedback to others in forms they can engage with and respond to e.g. providing specific information rather than blanket positive or negative statements Begins to cultivate relationships with people with the knowledge, skills and influence to get things done or provide support, building formal and informal networks within and beyond immediate work context e.g. joins a professional association, union, or community of practice Shares knowledge, experience information and resources with others as an integral part of work relationships Provides feedback to others in forms they can understand and use e.g. specific and actionable Actively builds formal and informal networks to include key people/ communities with expert skills, knowledge, connections and decision making power PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2B – CONNECT AND WORK WITH OTHERS (Continued)
  • 37. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 34 2C. RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES Definition: This Skill Area is about the capacity to recognise and respond to differing values, beliefs and behaviours, to draw on diverse perspectives for work purposes and to manage conflict when it arises. Key terms and concepts: Perspectives – points of view, particular attitudes towards, or ways of regarding something. Difference – the state or condition of being dissimilar. Diversity – exhibiting variety or difference. In work contexts, the term ‘diversity’ is used to collectively describe differences based on gender, ethnic, sexual orientation, religious or cultural background, age, physical ability, beliefs and personal preferences.
  • 38. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 35 Focus Areas A Novice in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Advanced Beginner in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Capable performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Proficient performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Expert in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: Recognise different perspectives Demonstrates some awareness that the values, beliefs and behaviours of other people may differ from own Recognises some common cultural barriers to interaction in the immediate work context With support, attempts to follow some legal requirements and/or organisational protocols related to diversity Begins to recognise how some personal values and beliefs align with, or differ from those of others in the immediate work context, and may consider how this impacts on interactions and work performance Recognises some common cultural barriers to interaction in the immediate work context, Generally adheres to legal requirements and protocols related to diversity and difference, and with guidance, may consider the concepts behind them Identifies and articulates some personal values, beliefs and behaviours and explores the implications of different perspectives in work contexts Demonstrates some understanding of the impact of cultural background and personal experience on own behaviour and that of others, and is beginning to recognise the benefits of drawing on different perspectives Observe legal and organisational requirements and protocols for responding to diversity Actively articulates personal values and beliefs, considering how these were formed and how they influence work related interactions and relationships Recognises the value that different perspectives can bring to the work situation, and seeks to better understand forms of diversity relevant to the work context (e.g. ethnic, religious, gender, age, socio-economic) and their potential impacts Promotes better understanding of different values and beliefs, and may question practices that stifle different perspectives or inhibit the expression of different values and practices Seeks to understand the unique combination of values, beliefs, knowledge, understandings and perspectives that others bring to the work context Challenges the status quo if required to ensure that diversity is respected and that different perspectives are utilised PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES
  • 39. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 36 Focus Areas A Novice in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Advanced Beginner in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Capable performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Proficient performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Expert in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: Respond to and utilise diverse perspectives With support, is beginning to manage own reactions to different values, beliefs, ideas and opinions Uses a limited range of strategies for managing own reactions to different values, beliefs, ideas and opinions May make some adjustments to personal communication style in recognition of the values, beliefs and cultural expectations of others Is beginning to listen and ask questions in order to better understand the beliefs, ideas and opinions of others, particularly when differences of perspective impact on work role Makes some adjustments to personal communication style in recognition of the values, beliefs and cultural expectations of others May seek, and take into account, some different perspectives when deciding on a course of action Actively seeks to identify the perspectives of others as part of work role e.g. asks clarifying questions, tries to see the world through another’s eyes Adapts personal communication style to show respect for the values, beliefs and cultural expectations of others Routinely seeks broad input into problem solving and decision making, and is developing specific strategies to encourage sharing of ideas and different perspectives Articulates and explores own and others’ values, beliefs and assumptions as an integral part of identifying drivers and barriers to change, developing new ideas, addressing problems and making decisions Intuitively adapts personal communication style where appropriate to respect the values, beliefs and cultural expectations of others Facilitates a climate in which others feel comfortable to identify, explore and build on a variety of perspectives in order to achieve shared outcomes PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
  • 40. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 37 Focus Areas A Novice in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Advanced Beginner in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Capable performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Proficient performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Expert in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: Manage conflict Continued over page With guidance, may identify some of the impacts of own emotions and behaviours on others in a work setting that lead to conflict Draws on a limited set of strategies for dealing with conflict when it arises e.g. ignore, retreat, respond aggressively With encouragement, may seek support from peers or assistance from supervisor when dealing with conflict With assistance, begins to recognise some ways in which own behaviour may contribute to conflict in the immediate work context Attempts to manage own responses to particular situations and people, and makes some attempt to resolve issues that arise Seeks support from supervisor or peers if own efforts fail Acknowledges when own reactions to different perspectives may undermine working relationships and contribute to conflict Recognises some triggers for specific emotions and ways in which these emotions are reflected in behaviour, and uses a small set of strategies to moderate aspects that may initiate or escalate conflict When opinions differ, attempts to reach agreement with some consideration of the perspectives of others When unable to resolve a major conflict, seeks advice and assistance in accordance with workplace protocols Reflects on personal reactions to perspectives and behaviours that may undermine work relationships and contribute to conflict Identifies key triggers for specific emotions and behaviours, and uses a range of strategies to moderate responses that may initiate or escalate conflict Is developing strategies for raising and discussing potentially contentious issues with others, and is learning to resist blaming or becoming defensive when others explain their perspective and feelings Listens closely and asks questions in order to clarify concerns and needs and identify the root problem Intuitively recognises potential for conflict and takes steps to stop an issue from escalating e.g. raises potentially contentious and divisive topics in a way that makes them discussable Seeks to establish a climate in which it is possible to clarify and share the real needs and issues e.g. Seeks to establish a shared understanding of the situation based on valid information, articulates assumptions, acknowledges own feelings and respects those of others, remains open and honest without becoming defensive PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
  • 41. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 38 Focus Areas A Novice in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Advanced Beginner in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Capable performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: A Proficient performer in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: An Expert in recognising and utilising diverse perspectives: Manage conflict Continued Recognises the importance of joint ownership of the process and outcomes and tries to identify common ground, shared goals, and agreement on the best course of action Seeks specialist advice when required Reflects on conflict resolution process and outcomes in order to improve skills and understanding Confronts problems quickly and directly, engaging with other party to reach agreement on a course of action that satisfies relevant needs and interests Sees conflict resolution as a joint enterprise, and uses a range of strategies to facilitate an interdependent approach with shared responsibility for the solution, plan of action and consequences PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 2C – RECOGNISE AND UTILISE DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES (Continued)
  • 42. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 39 3A. PLAN AND ORGANISE Definition: This Skill Area is about identifying and completing the steps needed to undertake tasks and manage workloads. This involves the capacity to organise self and information, plan and implement tasks, and plan and organise workloads. Key terms and concepts: Workload – the amount of work assigned to or expected from someone in a specified time period. Individuals will have different degrees of input into, and control over, decisions regarding what needs to be achieved, by when, with whom, and by what means. Work-life balance – in its broadest sense, refers to the balance between various aspects of an individual’s life, including work, family, friends and leisure activities. It differs from one person to the next, depending on personal values, goals, priorities and needs at any point in time, and is subject to change in response to changes in circumstances.
  • 43. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 40 Focus Areas A Novice in planning and organising: An Advanced Beginner in planning and organising: A Capable performer in planning and organising: A Proficient performer in planning and organising: An Expert in planning and organising: Plan and organise workload and commitments Continued over page Follows clear simple instructions provided by others regarding what to do, with whom and by when With assistance, uses one or two strategies to keep track of work and personal commitments e.g. a diary or notebook With encouragement, may alert others if unable to meet commitments as agreed Plans routine tasks with familiar goals and outcomes, taking some limited responsibility for decisions regarding sequencing and timing May coordinate some aspects of work with others in immediate work context Uses a small set of personal and organisation based systems for organising time and commitments e.g. to do lists, electronic scheduler When unable to meet commitments as agreed, or when circumstances change, is beginning seek guidance on setting new priorities and timeframes Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload, identifying ways of sequencing and combining elements for greater efficiency, and considering how to link with the work of others Organises and prioritises work and personal commitments, with some sense of what is achievable in a timeframe Reacts to unplanned events by adding them to the list, and working longer and harder to meet commitments May alert others and seek to adjust activities or deadlines if expectations create unnecessary stress Is beginning to establish boundaries when negotiating tasks and workloads with others Takes responsibility for own workload, negotiating some key aspects with others e.g. goals, how to work, where to work, with whom and by when Monitors impact of workload on work outcomes, and is learning to recognise and address workload issues that may compromise health, safety, and personal work-life balance Acknowledges the potentially competing demands of individual and collective responsibility for outcomes, and finds ways to maintain a balance between own and others’ needs and those of the work context e.g. says ‘no’ when required Takes responsibility for defining key aspects of own workload, balancing own needs and priorities with those of the work group Organises time and effort around priorities and results, focusing beyond immediate tasks to consider aspects such as building and maintaining working relationship Monitors workload in terms of personal and stakeholder goals and outcomes, adjusting or renegotiating priorities and plans as required Pays close attention to work-life demands and priorities, recognising warning signs and making changes to ensure commitments do not become unmanageable PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE
  • 44. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 41 Focus Areas A Novice in planning and organising: An Advanced Beginner in planning and organising: A Capable performer in planning and organising: A Proficient performer in planning and organising: An Expert in planning and organising: Plan and organise workload and commitments Continued Recognises personal strengths and limitations in regard to prioritising use of time and energy, and is developing some strategies to improve effectiveness and reduce unnecessary stress Reassesses priorities when circumstances change, and is learning to resist knee jerk reactions to unplanned events Responds flexibly to changing circumstances, maintaining a focus on goals, avoiding knee jerk reactions to unplanned events and managing the assumptions and expectations of others Plan and implement tasks Continued over page Follows pre-determined, sequenced plans for tasks with more than one step Begins to identify and assembles the resources required May seek guidance when plans are interrupted or resources are not available With assistance, determines priorities and sequences the steps involved in clearly defined, familiar tasks and identifies and assembles the resources required Seeks assistance to reset priorities following disruptions, or when resources are not available With encouragement, may seek advice when results are not as anticipated Plans a range of routine, and some non-routine, tasks, accepting stated goals and aiming to achieve them efficiently Applies formal processes when planning more complex/unfamiliar tasks, producing plans with logically sequenced steps, reflecting some awareness of time and resource constraints and the needs of others in the immediate vicinity Implements actions as per plan, making slight adjustments if necessary, and addressing some unexpected issues Develops plans to manage relatively complex, non-routine tasks with an awareness of how they may contribute to longer term operational and strategic goals Begins to recognise the importance of other stakeholders throughout the process and is learning to clarify goals and proposed methodology with others, maintain communication and manage expectations and understanding Monitors actions against stated goals, adjusting plans and resources to cope with contingencies Develops flexible plans for complex, high impact activities with strategic implications that involve a diverse range of stakeholders with potentially competing demands Recognises the critical importance of clarifying, focusing and aligning goals and expectations, and may use the process to build ownership of, and broad commitment to achieving outcomes Uses a mix of intuitive and formal processes to identify key information and issues, evaluate alternative strategies, anticipate consequences and consider implementation issues and contingencies PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE (Continued)
  • 45. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 42 Focus Areas A Novice in planning and organising: An Advanced Beginner in planning and organising: A Capable performer in planning and organising: A Proficient performer in planning and organising: An Expert in planning and organising: Plan and implement tasks Continued Seeks assistance from more experienced colleagues as required May use ICT based systems and programs to assist with planning, implementing and tracking progress Assesses effectiveness in terms of how well stated goals were achieved and how closely the process followed the original plan and timeframes Uses a combination of formal, logical planning processes and an increasingly intuitive understanding of context to identify relevant information and risks, identify and evaluate alternative strategies and resources Sequences and schedules complex activities, monitors implementation and manages relevant communication e.g. formal project management processes and associated technology Reflects on outcomes and feedback from others in order to identify general principles and concepts that may be applicable in new situations Recognises the need for flexibility and is learning how to adjust or even abandon plans as circumstances and priorities change May operate from a broad conceptual plan, developing the operational detail in stages, regularly reviewing priorities and performance during implementation, identifying and addressing issues and reallocating resources Skilfully utilises existing structures and systems to coordinate activity, or designs new processes as required Focuses effort on what is most important, delegating to others as required, managing interruptions, recognising potential issues and taking quick action to identify and resolve problems Gathers data and seeks feedback from others to gain new perspectives and identify ways to strengthen planning processes in the future PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3A – PLAN AND ORGANISE (Continued)
  • 46. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 43 3B. MAKE DECISIONS Definition: This Skill Area is about making a choice from a range of possibilities. It involves the capacity to use different decision-making approaches and to reflect on the outcomes of decisions. Key terms and concepts: Decisions – are required in many different circumstances, ranging from simple, highly predictable situations with a limited range of options, to highly complex, unpredictable situations with many possible options. Some decisions can and/or must be made quickly, with limited time for exploration while others allow for more extensive consideration. While most approaches to the development of decision making skills focus on formal, systematic processes, in reality, most decisions are made unconsciously or intuitively. Although closely associated with problem solving, decisions are also required when a change of any kind is being considered, even if there is no obvious problem involved. Take the initiative – the ability to make decisions and take action without waiting to be told what to do.
  • 47. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 44 Focus Areas A Novice in decision making: An Advanced Beginner in decision making: A Capable performer in decision making: A Proficient performer in decision making: An Expert in decision making: Establish decision making scope Takes responsibility for a limited range of low- impact decisions relevant to immediate tasks Takes responsibility for routine low-impact decisions within familiar situations Takes responsibility for the outcomes of routine decisions related directly to own role Is beginning to take the initiative for making decisions in non-routine situations Actively contributes to group/team decision- making when required Makes a range of critical and non-critical decisions in relatively complex situations, taking a range of constraints into account e.g. time, availability of information, divergent perspectives Considers whether, and how, others should be involved, often using consultative or collaborative processes as an integral part of the decision-making process Takes responsibility for high impact decisions in complex situations involving many variables and constraints Pays close attention to the involvement of others in the decision making process, judging when and where to make a unilateral decision, consult with others or collaborate to reach consensus Review impact With guidance, may reflect on the impact of a decision that may not have achieved the desired outcome. With guidance, may reflect on outcomes and identify the features of an effective or ineffective decision in a particular situation Evaluates effectiveness of decisions in terms of how well they meet stated goals Uses each experience to reflect on the ways in which variables impact on decision outcomes, and to gain insights into what constitutes ‘good’ judgement and an effective decision in different contexts Monitors outcomes of decisions, considering results from a range of perspectives, and identifying key concepts and principles that may be adaptable to future situations PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3B – MAKE DECISIONS
  • 48. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 45 Focus Areas A Novice in decision making: An Advanced Beginner in decision making: A Capable performer in decision making: A Proficient performer in decision making: An Expert in decision making: Apply decision- making processes Follows clear, step by step verbal instructions or written procedures for routine decisions directly relevant to own role, selecting from a limited number of pre- determined options May need encouragement to seek assistance when faced with decisions involving issues not clearly covered by guidelines Selects from a range of pre-determined options in routine situations, identifying and taking some situational factors into account Usually seeks input and advice when decisions involve unfamiliar issues or are not clearly covered by guidelines Automatically implements standard procedures for routine decisions In more complex, non routine situations, uses a formal decision-making process with support, setting or clarifying goals, gathering information, and identifying and evaluating several choices against a limited set of criteria Makes decisions quickly and intuitively in familiar situations requiring immediate attention, drawing on past experience to identify key variables, consider possible implications of different courses of action and determine the best course of action Uses systematic, analytical processes in complex, non- routine situations, setting goals, gathering relevant information, and identifying and evaluating options against agreed criteria Considers alignment with values and principles in decision-making processes and is learning to recognise and manage ethical issues Seeks advice, feedback and support as required Approaches decision making in diverse ways, recognising that there is no formula and that ‘it all depends’ Identifies a range of factors that impact on a decision, including own values and principles, the needs, power, values, beliefs and assumptions of stakeholders Makes rapid decisions when required, drawing on in-depth understanding of a situation and experience of decision making in this, and in other contexts Recognises when it is important, and possible, to slow down the decision- making process, and takes time to explore and prioritise context-dependent variables, gather own information and seek the input of others and consider ethical implications May use formal decision making processes as scaffolding for thinking, moving iteratively between phases and seeking input, advice, feedback and specialist expertise as required PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3B – MAKE DECISIONS (Continued)
  • 49. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 46 3C. IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS Definition: This Skill Area is about identifying and addressing routine and non-routine problems in order to achieve work objectives. This involves the capacity to anticipate or identify problems, take steps to solve problems and reflect on the outcomes. Key term and concepts: Problem – any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty. Something may be perceived as a problem by one person but not by another, or may be an issue in one context but not in another. Work related problems may involve few or many variables, be obvious or hidden, predictable or unpredictable, expected or unexpected. A problem may have one right answer, but often there will be many possible solutions, from which a choice must be made. Problem solving – involves identifying and implementing a selected solution and seeing if it works. An individual’s problem solving performance at any time will be strongly influenced by their understanding of the context in which they are operating. Trial and error – experimenting until a solution is found or a satisfactory result is achieved. Intuitive – is instinctive behaviour based on what one feels to be true, or ‘right’, even without conscious reasoning. When used in regard to problem solving, the term refers to an expert’s capacity to draw quickly on vast amounts of past experience in order to sum up a situation, identify the root cause of a problem and devise a solution that is generally considered by others to be effective. The ability to act intuitively and effectively is a characteristic of experts. It is developing in those at the proficient stage, and is a key indicator that someone has moved from the ‘capable’ to the ‘proficient’ stage. A novice or advanced beginner may act on gut feeling without conscious reasoning but is highly unlikely to act effectively, especially in a complex situation.
  • 50. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 47 Focus Area A Novice in identifying and solving problems: An Advanced Beginner in identifying and solving problems: A Capable performer in identifying and solving problems: A Proficient performer in identifying and solving problems: An Expert in identifying and solving problems: Identify problems May recognise and respond to highly obvious, routine problems in the immediate work context e.g. a disruption to a familiar procedure May need encouragement to seek assistance when problems are beyond immediate responsibilities or experience Recognises and responds to predictable routine problems related to role in the immediate work context Seeks assistance when problems are beyond immediate responsibilities or experience Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable problems in familiar work contexts Understands when to take responsibility and when to notify others Generally accepts the obvious symptoms of a problem as ‘the problem’ and seeks to re-establish the status quo Recognises and anticipates an increasing range of familiar problems, their symptoms and causes, actively looking for early warning signs and implementing contingency plans Recognises and addresses some unfamiliar problems of increasing complexity within own scope, recognising when to seek the expertise of others Begins to look behind the obvious symptoms to redefine the problem and identify underlying causes Recognises and addresses complex problems involving multiple variables Uses nuanced understanding of context to recognise anomalies and subtle deviations to normal expectations, focusing attention on critical issues and variables and filtering out peripheral issues Recognises that identified ’problems’ can be surface indicators of deeper issues, and routinely reframes problem definitions as part of the process of identifying a root cause PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS
  • 51. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 48 Focus Area A Novice in identifying and solving problems: An Advanced Beginner in identifying and solving problems: A Capable performer in identifying and solving problems: A Proficient performer in identifying and solving problems: An Expert in identifying and solving problems: Apply problem- solving processes Follows clear, step by step instructions or procedures to address a small set of identified, routine problems directly relevant to own role If no direction or advice is available, may attempt to solve a problem using a ‘trial and error’ approach, with a limited awareness of the potential impact of solutions Begins to identify and implement standard solutions for an increasing number of routine problems Where standardised procedures or assistance is not available, addresses unfamiliar problems by applying past solutions that may appear to have some relevance to the current situation Initiates standard procedures when responding to familiar problems within immediate context Applies formal problem solving processes when tackling an unfamiliar problem, breaking complex issues into manageable parts and identifying and evaluating several options for action Where appropriate, seeks feedback or advice before implementing a solution In familiar contexts, responds intuitively to problems requiring immediate attention, quickly drawing on past experience to devise solutions When dealing with complex issues, may use intuition to identify the general problem area, switching to analytical processes to clarify goals and key issues, and using lateral thinking processes to generate possible solutions Uses analytical processes to decide on a course of action, establishing criteria for deciding between options, and seeking input and advice from others before taking action when necessary Approaches problem solving in diverse ways, recognising that there is no formula and that ‘it all depends’ May intuitively hone in on the problem area and identify a small set of possible appropriate solutions May invest time in defining the real problem, using a variety of techniques to challenge initial perceptions of the situation, identify key contributing factors and critical issues May use formal analytical and lateral thinking techniques for identifying issues, generating and evaluating possible solutions May identify a need for further information or seek advice from relevant experts PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS (Continued)
  • 52. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 49 Focus Area A Novice in identifying and solving problems: An Advanced Beginner in identifying and solving problems: A Capable performer in identifying and solving problems: A Proficient performer in identifying and solving problems: An Expert in identifying and solving problems: Review outcomes With guidance, may identify some ways in which a suggested solution worked or did not work, and suggest actions that could be taken in a similar situation May reflect on outcomes and identify what worked, or develop an improved approach for future situations Considers the effectiveness of a solution in terms of how well it met stated goals, and seeks to improve a future response when a solution does not achieve its intended outcome With guidance, begins to reflect on the effectiveness of a selected problem solving process Uses formal and informal processes to monitor implementation of solutions and reflect on outcomes Acknowledges where a solution did not achieve expected outcomes and seeks a range of perspectives to understand why, including a rethinking of original goals Reflects on the appropriateness and effectiveness of the problem solving process used and identifies some key principles that may be relevant in future situations Uses every situation as an opportunity for extending insights and understanding, recognising that any solution will have both intended and unintended consequences and that cause and effect may not be closely or obviously linked Reflects on the application of key principles in a particular context, the appropriateness and effectiveness of different sources of information and problem solving processes for that context, and the potential implications for future situations PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3C – IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS (Continued)
  • 53. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 50 3D. CREATE AND INNOVATE Definition: This Skill Area is about creating, applying and recognising the value of new ideas to solve problems, improve or develop new processes, products or strategies, or deliver new benefits. It involves the capacity to challenge perceptions of how things are, and how they might be, and to recognise a potential opportunity. It also involves the use of formal processes to challenge and extend initial perceptions of a situation, and generate, and select from, a range of new ideas. Key terms and concepts: New ideas – refers to ideas that may never have been thought of before, or ideas that may not have been proposed in a particular context, or by a particular individual. They include hypotheses, speculations and possibilities. Lateral thinking – refers to the general approach of exploring multiple possibilities rather than pursuing only one. Lateral thinking techniques – are a set of systematic thinking tools that can be used to challenge initial concepts and perceptions (a necessary pre-cursor to having ‘new’ ideas) and generate large numbers of ideas in a particular situation. Analytical or logical techniques – are thinking processes used to develop criteria and select ideas for practical application, or for further exploration and development. While final decisions about an idea may be made intuitively, in a work setting they often involve detailed analysis and a logical process of prioritising different options against an explicit set of criteria. Judgement – refers to the mental operation in which an individual seeks to ‘make sense’ of a new idea by evaluating it against past experience to decide whether it is a ‘good’ idea or a ‘bad’ one, whether it will work or not work etc. This process is often implicit, and has the potential to rule out many new ideas before they can be explored. Explore – means to traverse or range over for the purpose of discovery. Exploration of a new idea involves setting aside judgement for long enough to allow genuine consideration of its possibilities. Any new idea has the potential to suggest another way forward. Even if the idea itself is unlikely to be applicable in its entirety, it may be based on principles or have features that could be utilised in a new way. However, these are not always immediately obvious – hence the need to ‘play’ with possibilities for a time before making a decision. Innovation - involves inventing a new idea, or recognising the potential of a new idea proposed by someone else, developing it further and introducing it for the first time, or for the first time in a particular context. While the term is often used to describe the full process of design, evaluation and implementation, the focus of this Skill Area is on the process of selecting an idea for implementation. The implementation of the idea selected is a complex process in its own right, which draws on other Skill Areas such as planning and organising, decision making, communicating and connecting with others.
  • 54. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 51 Focus Area A Novice in creating and innovating: An Advanced Beginner in creating and innovating: A Capable performer in creating and innovating: A Proficient performer in creating and innovating: An Expert in creating and innovating: Recognise opportunities to develop and apply new ideas May recognise opportunities for application of new ideas proposed by others where implementation requires little disruption and the benefits to own work are immediately obvious Supports the application of new ideas proposed by others where implementation requires little disruption and the benefits to own work are immediately obvious May identify and propose a small change to a process, product or service within scope of own role Recognises the value of continuous improvement within own work context where this involves incremental change Contributes to the design of new approaches within the immediate work environment Identifies ways to address problems affecting own role, and begins to recognise the value of seeking different perspectives when a solution is not obvious Adopts proposals suggested by others and finds ways to make them work in practice where these do not require radical change Recognises the potential of new approaches to enhance work practices and outcomes, and accepts the need to consider radical as well as incremental change Recognises that the current way is only one way of doing something, and takes mental risks, exploring possibilities that challenge current approaches Invests some time in looking for new ideas and opportunities, drawing on the diverse perspectives of others to gain insights into current practice and ideas for change Begins to use regularly recurring problems as an indicator of areas where a new approach could yield significant benefits Contributes to creating a climate where people feel comfortable to suggest, explore, adapt and adopt new ideas as a regular part of work life Recognises the critical importance of the ongoing exploration of new ideas to the viability and effectiveness of a work situation Actively focuses on things normally taken for granted, asking, “Is this the only way? Are there better ways?” Explores and incubates ideas that have the potential to lead to radical departures from the current situation Facilitates a climate in which creativity and innovation are accepted as an integral part of the way things are done e.g. builds in time for idea creation and sharing, deliberately looks for the potential in ideas proposed by others, especially when they do not seem immediately practical PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE
  • 55. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 52 Focus Area A Novice in creating and innovating: An Advanced Beginner in creating and innovating: A Capable performer in creating and innovating: A Proficient performer in creating and innovating: An Expert in creating and innovating: Generate ideas Perceives chance and inspiration as the main ways of producing new ideas Demonstrates a limited awareness of the differences between analytical and lateral thinking With guidance, may follow the rules of a formal lateral thinking technique Identifies ideas in use in other contexts and considers how they might be applied in own context with minimal adjustment Understands that analytical and lateral thinking skills can be learned May apply a formal lateral thinking technique at the instigation of others, with some understanding of how the technique works Identifies and adapts ideas being used in similar contexts Understands and explicitly applies some basic principles of analytical and lateral thinking Uses a systematic process to identify possible solutions to a difficult problem, e.g. applies a standard set of questions or some thinking techniques, often in collaboration with others Identifies concepts, principles and features of approaches in use in other contexts, and redesigns these to suit own situation Uses ideas proposed by others as provocations and stepping stones to new perceptions and ideas Regularly uses formal thinking techniques to escape from current perceptions in order to generate new ideas, even when there is no immediate need or issue May invest time in developing and shaping several options before making a final choice, using a combination of lateral and analytical thinking to tailor and strengthen an idea to suit needs, resources and constraints Plays with possibilities as an integral part of work life e.g. Identifies the principles, concepts and features of existing approaches and rearranges them or combines some with others for a new purpose Articulates and challenges the values, beliefs and assumptions that may be shaping thinking, and routinely reframes and redefines problems in order to get new perspectives and generate new ideas Keeps abreast of innovations and good practice beyond own context, borrowing, adapting, combining and redesigning for own purposes or using as a provocation to rethink current approaches Applies systematic thinking techniques as an integral part of the creative process, recognising the need to challenge habitual perceptions, break patterns and make new connections in order to escape from habitual mind sets PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE (Continue)
  • 56. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 53 Focus Area A Novice in creating and innovating: An Advanced Beginner in creating and innovating: A Capable performer in creating and innovating: A Proficient performer in creating and innovating: An Expert in creating and innovating: Select ideas for implementation Selects or supports the adoption of new approaches that can be easily applied without disruption of familiar routines Selects or supports the adoption of new ideas that will easily resolve a problem or improve a process within the immediate work context Selects or supports new ideas on the basis of their potential to improve an aspect of the immediate situation without radical change May use a standard set of questions or criteria when deciding which ideas, if any, to adopt e.g. Will it fit immediate needs or can it be adapted easily to do so? Is it affordable? Selects or supports new ideas on the basis of their contribution to the achievement of broader goals Makes final decisions using clear priorities and criteria Begins to look beyond immediate adoption to broader implications that may affect adoption of innovations Recognises the importance of promoting a new idea to others who may be involved in, or affected by its implementation Draws on a broad understanding of the context, and uses a combination of analysis and intuition to decide whether an idea is worth developing further/ implementing Defines benefits, costs, risks and feasibility from a broad range of perspectives, and may think laterally to redesign aspects in order to address potential issues Identifies and seeks to address the range of issues that may impact on successful adoption of an innovation Invests time in ensuring that the value of the new approach is appreciated by decision makers and those involved in/affected by its implementation PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3D – CREATE AND INNOVATE (Continue)
  • 57. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 54 3E. WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD Definition: This Skill Area refers to the capacity to connect to other people, information and contexts for work-related purposes using digital systems and technology. It involves understanding concepts and language associated with the digital world and the capacity to understand and work with emerging/accepted etiquette and risks associated with online environments. It also involves identifying how digital technology and digitally based systems can extend, enhance or make possible specific aspects of a role or task, and create new opportunities. Key terms and concepts: Digital world – refers to the global environment in which digital technology enables multiple connections between people, rapid access to and transfer of information, the visualisation and analysis of data, the ability to connect with others, sharing information, collaborating and build relationships that are not limited by time and location. Digital technologies – include any products or combination of products that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit or receive information electronically in a digital form e.g. devices, applications, software. Network – in information technology contexts, network refers to a series of points or nodes interconnected by communication paths. Networks can interconnect with other networks and contain sub-networks e.g. the Internet and local Intranets. Social networking – the use of interconnected Internet communities that help people make and maintain contacts, particularly with people they would have been unlikely to meet otherwise. Electronic paper trail – the electronically stored written evidence of someone’s activities. Etiquette – social conventions about accepted behaviours in the digital world. Netiquette refers to a set of online conventions that has been formalised and adopted by a number of online services.
  • 58. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 55 Focus Area A Novice performer in working in a digital world: An Advanced Beginner in working in a digital world: A Capable performer in working in a digital world: A Proficient performer in working in a digital world: An Expert performer in working in a digital world: Use digitally based technologies and systems Begins to understand the purpose of some commonly used digital tools Identifies some appropriate hardware/ software for immediate tasks With assistance, is learning to perform basic functions related directly to own tasks e.g. uses email, undertakes basic Internet searches, manipulates screens Recognises and uses some terms and symbols with some understanding of their meaning e.g. application, file With guidance, begins to use some basic troubleshooting strategies e.g. turns off and on again Understands the purpose and some specific functions of some common digital tools used in work contexts Uses the main features and functions of these digital tools to complete own tasks Recognises and responds to basic terms and symbols Recognises a small set of design and operating principles and applies these when learning how to use upgrades or new digital tools with the same purpose Uses a small number of troubleshooting strategies independently and seeks assistance as required Understands the purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools and operates them effectively to complete routine tasks, adapting some functions to improve personal efficiency Recognises and uses common symbols and terminology associated with the digital world Recognises some general design and operating principles of digital tools and uses these to help when adopting upgrades, new technologies with similar purposes or when troubleshooting Troubleshoots routine issues and knows when to ask others for assistance Considers purpose, needs and limitations when selecting devices and applications for different tasks Is beginning to monitor trends and identify applications and innovations from other contexts that may be useful Utilises a broad range of features within applications to improve personal productivity, optimising software functions for specific purposes Recognises and uses a wide range of relevant language and symbols Reflects on the ways in which digital systems and tools are used, or could be used, to achieve work goals, and begins to recognise strategic, as well as operational, applications Understands key principles and concepts underpinning the design and operation of digital systems and tools and applies these when troubleshooting existing technology, and when seeking to understand the potential of new technology Actively identifies systems, devices and applications with potential to meet current and/or future needs Considers the strategic and operational potential of digital trends to achieve work goals, enhance work processes, create opportunities, pose threats and enhance or reduce risks Experiments with the possibilities of new systems, devices, applications, apps etc before conducting a more sophisticated analysis of benefits, costs and risk Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of principles, concepts, language and practices associated with the digital world, and uses these to troubleshoot and understand the uses and potential of new technology PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD
  • 59. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 56 Focus Area A Novice performer in working in a digital world: An Advanced Beginner in working in a digital world: A Capable performer in working in a digital world: A Proficient performer in working in a digital world: An Expert performer in working in a digital world: Connect with others Begins to link to those in immediate work context via common digital systems, devices and tools, e.g. smartphone, PDA Intranet, email, SMS Begins to recognise and apply some basic conventions of online etiquette Uses digital systems, search engines and common digital tools to connect with others in immediate work context on matters related to own role e.g. Uses electronic messaging to seek immediate information or advice from peers or supervisor Recognises and applies some conventions of online etiquette Establishes and maintains online connections with others as an integral part of role, using a variety of digital tools and media to interact, collaborate and create May use online forums, blogs and social networking sites to connect with work peers or discuss work related issues, following online etiquette appropriately Explores ways of connecting to others within and beyond the work context in order to access diverse perspectives and build on collective intelligence Communicates information and ideas to an expanding range of audiences, considering the nature and potential reach of various linkages and the benefits and limitations of different kinds of electronic channels, and paying close attention to online etiquette May use mobile communication tools and specialised software to collaborate with others, or engage with geographically distributed team members in virtual environments Collaborates with many people simultaneously and is beginning to initiate improvised groups around tasks, ideas and issues Uses social networking as an integral part of work to supplement individual knowledge Begins to manage own online profile, recognising the permanence and reach of both personal and work related information Actively identifies, creates, and utilises linkages to enhance knowledge sharing, idea creation, individual and collective engagement and work outcomes Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of expectations, social protocols and online etiquette, intuitively selecting the appropriate channel, content, and tone for diverse purposes and audiences Establishes and contributes to virtual communities involved in collaborative construction of resources, sharing of information, development of ideas Uses multiple social contexts and media spaces to connect with and influence others, tailoring strategies for each Seeks to build and maintain an effective online profile as an integral part of work and career management PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)
  • 60. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 57 Focus Area A Novice performer in working in a digital world: An Advanced Beginner in working in a digital world: A Capable performer in working in a digital world: A Proficient performer in working in a digital world: An Expert performer in working in a digital world: Access, organise, and present information Follows simple, step by step instructions for using digital technology to enter, store and retrieve information directly relevant to role e.g. enters details into electronic timesheet, stores electronic records, enters basic key words into a search engine to find information Follows routine procedures for using digital technology to enter, store and retrieve information directly relevant to role e.g. enters and accesses customer information in a database, enters and reads data from electronic monitoring and control systems Uses familiar digital systems and tools to access, organise, analyse and display information relevant to role e.g. accesses and filters information using search engines, data bases, or spreadsheets, uses computer-based applications to present information Uses a range of digitally based technology and applications to access and filter data, extract, organise, integrate and share relevant information in increasingly effective ways e.g. uses statistical analysis applications, participates in user forums and online communities of practice Considers new ways to model, visualise, interact with and present complex information e.g. uses project management or process-modelling software Uses a broad range of strategies to store, access and organise virtual information, recognising that design choices will influence what information is retrieved, and how it may be interpreted and used e.g. makes decisions about information to be captured in a database and the kinds of reports required Uses digital tools to access and organise complex data and analyse multiple sources of information for strategic purposes e.g. Filters and synthesises meaningful information, patterns and commonalities from multiple streams of data, models complex scenarios PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)
  • 61. Core Skills for Work | The Framework | 58 Focus Area A Novice performer in working in a digital world: An Advanced Beginner in working in a digital world: A Capable performer in working in a digital world: A Proficient performer in working in a digital world: An Expert performer in working in a digital world: Manage risk With guidance, follows security instructions e.g. security procedures, privacy requirements May need to be reminded to use back up procedures Begins to recognise distinctions between personal and work related use of digital devices, connections Implements basic security requirements related to own tasks With assistance, may recognise some issues about the transparency and accessibility of information relevant to own role Understands the importance of secure information and privacy in relation to own work, and begins to take personal responsibility for identifying and managing risk factors e.g. Uses security protection and routinely backs up data Recognises some issues about the transparency and accessibility of information in relation to own role, and some of the benefits and drawbacks of being digitally connected to others and takes some steps to manage associated risks e.g. checks email addresses before sending Uses digital technologies and systems safely, legally and ethically when gathering, storing, accessing and sharing information, with a growing awareness of the permanence and transparency of all activities Pays attention to when, how and why a device is connected to other sites, what information is being passed and whether it is protected Manages and maintains files securely in a variety of storage media and formats and is beginning to actively establish, maintain and monitor electronic paper trails Recognises broader positive and negative implications of new technologies for ways of working e.g. synergies and conflicts associated with increased transparency, the permanency of records, self documentation of work done, location, collaboration, interests, accountability, online profiles and personas Pays close attention to the nature of connections, establishing who is directly or indirectly linked to whom and in what ways, and evaluating associated benefits and risks Is acutely aware of the importance of understanding, monitoring and controlling access to digitally stored and transmitted information PERFORMANCE FEATURES TABLE 3E – WORK IN A DIGITAL WORLD (Continued)