The question of clustering comes up time and time again when talking to RTO staff. I think the biggest problem is people don’t understand the benefits. These benefits are for the students, the assessors and the workplace. So I decided to discuss some of the benefits and how to cluster.

What is clustering?

It when a number of units of competency from the training qualification are grouped together to address training and assessment for a job function or role.

Benefit 1.  Training Packages are written with job roles in mind, and you need to reflect the workplace in the learning and assessment experience. By clustering units you assess against a job task as it is performed in the workplace. Learning and assessment materials that reflect the workplace will therefore assist in putting the knowledge and skills being learned or assessed in a real work context. This approach is more meaningful for the learner/candidate and increases the likelihood of them being able to transfer the knowledge and skills from the classroom setting to the workplace.

Benefit 2.  There are significant efficiency benefits for the workplace and training organisation by maximising the opportunities for holistic evidence gathering in the assessment process. It is simpler, but not lacking in integrity.

Benefit 3. You can meet the required competency profile of the learner/candidate

Benefit 4.  There is efficiency of effort for the trainer/assessor and learner/candidate.

Benefit 5. You can address the unit of competence co-requisite requirements

When clustering is done well it provides for holistic, efficient and meaningful learning and demonstration of competency. This assessment approach also integrates the application of knowledge, technical skills, problem solving and demonstration of attitudes and ethics.

Let’s look at an example;

A good approach to grouping is to look at units with similar or complementary knowledge and skills. For example, the following three units could be grouped to provide a structured and meaningful learning and assessment program.

BSBCMM201A             Communicate in the workplace

BSBWOR203A             Work effectively with others

BSBWOR202A             Organise and complete daily work activities

Remember: It is important however, when units are grouped, that thorough mapping is conducted for each unit of competency individually and a meaningful schedule of knowledge and skills development planned. Successful performance of the job role then provides the evidence required for assessment. This assists in minimising disruption to the work place and over assessment.

Enjoy and happy clustering

Merinda