Elements and Performance Criteria

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Issues of responsibility for environmental and social sustainabilitymay relate to:
negative environmental impacts:
disturbance of flora and fauna
introduction of exotic and feral species
physical damage
pollution
visual impacts
negative social impacts:
trivialisation of culture
positive environmental impacts:
visitor education
improvement of sites already impacted
opportunities for conservation and protection
positive social impacts:
economic benefits to local community
employment
greater understanding between host and visitor cultures
improved local facilities
visitor education.
Minimal impact techniques and procedures may include:
education
restricting or limiting access
site hardening
staged authenticity
technological solutions.
Changes in the natural environmentmay include:
breeding events
changes to fauna
changes to flora
erosion
species sighting.
Ways tocollect environmental informationmay involve:
basic measurements:
estimating percentage cover and water
temperature
weather conditions
logbooks
photography
sighting forms.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the ability to:
organise and operate tourism activities in multiple environments with minimal negative environmental and social impact
demonstrate knowledge of global environmental issues, including those specific to tourism and in particular operating environments
demonstrate knowledge of minimal impact practices.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure use of:
an environmentally sensitive location in which activities can be conducted
real or simulated tourism activities
current information about environmental practices, such as legislation, guidelines and industry codes of practice.
Method of assessment
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
direct observation of the individual conducting a tour or activity in an environmentally sensitive area
review of tour planning and operational activities undertaken by the individual
use of case studies to assess ability to apply appropriate minimal impact approaches to different environments
written or oral questioning to assess knowledge of environmental and social impact of tourism, local environmental issues, minimal impact techniques and regulatory requirements
review of portfolios of evidence and thirdparty workplace reports of onthejob performance by the individual.
Guidance information for assessment
The assessor should design integrated assessment activities to holistically assess this unit with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role, for example:
SITTGDE303 Lead tour groups
SITTGDE304 Prepare and present tour commentaries or activities
SITTPPD402 Develop interpretive activities.