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Higher National Unit Specification

General information for centres

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

Unit code: DE3N 34

Unit purpose: This unit is about responding to and presenting complex business

communication.

On completion of the unit candidates should be able to:

1. Analyse complex written business information.

2. Produce complex written business documents.

3. Organise and participate in a formal meeting.

Credit value: 1 HN Credit at SCQF level 7: (8 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 7*)

*SCQF credit points are used to allocate credit to qualifications in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). Each qualification in the Framework is allocated a number of SCQF credit points at an SCQF level. There are 12 SCQF levels, ranging from Access 1 to Doctorates.

Recommended prior knowledge and skills: Access to this Unit is at the

discretion of the centre. It would, however, be beneficial if the candidate had good communication skills. This may be evidenced by possession of the Core Skills Unit in Communication at Higher level (SCQF level 6), or similar qualifications or experience.

Core skills: This Unit gives automatic certification of the following Core Skill:

Communication at Higher level. There are no other Core Skill components included. Context for delivery: If this Unit is delivered as part of a group award, it is

recommended that it should be taught and assessed within the subject area of the group award to which it contributes. Outcomes may be integrated with elements of the course which require the analysis and production of complex written and/or oral communication

Assessment: Evidence should be generated through assessment undertaken in

controlled conditions where arrangements are in place to assure the authenticity of work produced. Since the Core Skill of Communication is embedded in this Unit, it is strongly recommended that you follow the assessment guidelines given.

An exemplar assessment pack and marking guidelines have been produced to indicate the national standard of achievement required at HN SCQF level 7.

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 1

Higher National Unit specification: statement of standards

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

Unit code: DE3N 34

The sections of the Unit stating the Outcomes, knowledge and/or skills, and evidence requirements are mandatory.

Where evidence for Outcomes is assessed on a sample basis, the whole of the content listed in the knowledge and/or skills section must be taught and available for assessment. Candidates should not know in advance the items on which they will be assessed and different items should be sampled on each assessment occasion.

Outcome 1

Analyse complex written business information

Knowledge and/or skills

? The skills and concepts required for reading and analysing complex text.

? The skills of summarising key information and supporting detail.

? An understanding of the range of t ypes, purposes and uses of business documents.

? A knowledge of the conventions of format and graphic communication.

? An understanding of the impact of language and presentation.

? Skills in evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of written text in me eting an identified purpose and readership.

Evidence requirements

Candidates will need to demonstrate skills by summarising and evaluating in detail a complex business text which is concerned with the presentation, analysis and synthesis of a substantial amount of information. The response must be written or recorded and

? summarise the main points and supporting detail

? evaluate the effectiveness of format, language, structure and layout in meeting the needs of purpose and readership

Evidence should be generated through assessment undertaken in controlled conditions. Assessment guidelines

A summary and detailed evaluation may be made of any complex document, but it is suggested that the text selected could either be one which could provide a model of the type of text to be produced for Outcome 2 and/or would be a source document relevant to Outcome 2 and/or 3. Such integration would encourage skills development and avoid over-assessment. A formal structured complex business report, proposal or article on a relevant vocational issue could provide an appropriate text.

Higher National Unit specification: statement of standards (cont) HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 2

Communication

Outcome 2

Produce complex written business documents

Knowledge and/or skills

? How to select and collate relevant information.

? How to arrange material for impact.

? How to structure information effectively to a prescribed business format.

? How to select register and language appropriate to purpose and readership.

? Accurate use of conventions of expression and style, spelling punctuation and syntax ? Formal conventions of business documents

Evidence requirements

Candidates will need to demonstrate skills by producing one or more business documents presenting and analysing information on a complex issue. A minimum of 1500 words, should be produced in controlled conditions, meet an agreed brief and be in a prescribed format. Texts should

? Select and collate information effectively

? Present relevant information accurately

? Use a logical structure appropriate for purpose and readership

? Use language and register effectively

? Use conventions of layou t and format consistently and accurately

? Use consistently accurate spelling, syntax and punctuation

Assessment guidelines

There should be some negotiation with candidates to ensure that the content and purpose of work undertaken is relevant to their vocational needs.

Setting deadlines for the submission and evaluation of initial work prior to any redraft of materials should reflect workplace practice and allow for feedback. Draft plans and outlines, and training in the effective organisation of notes and reference materials, should support the production of materials, encourage good working practice and provide useful evidence of authenticity. The final documents produced should follow industry standard conventions. The text, for example a detailed analytical report or in-depth proposal, could relate to work completed for the meeting in Outcome 3, or be part of other course assignments. Although word-processing is not a mandatory evidence requirement, the document should reflect professional practice. Graphics may support and supplement the text. The word total may include any associated supplementary texts produced by the candidate, such as letters, annotated diagrams, spreadsheets, memoranda or minutes.

Higher National Unit specification: statement of standards (cont)

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 3

Communication

Outcome 3

Organise and participate in a formal meeting

Knowledge and/or skills

? How to plan and prepare for a formal meeting.

? How to locate, select and present relevant complex information.

? How to organise and structure a contribution to discussion.

? How to respond and adapt to the contributions of others and progress i nteraction.

? The dynamics of oral communication.

? The format and structure of formal meetings.

? The format and structure of written records of meetings.

Evidence requirements

Candidates will demonstrate skills by taking part in and documenting a formal meeting which involves at least four others and which has a clear remit involving analysis and decision making relating to a complex vocational issue. A detailed observation checklist and/or a video recording should be retained as evidence of performance for each candidate. Each candidate should

? produce a notice of meeting and agenda

? prepare and present an agenda item accurately and effectively

? use tone, pace and non verbal communication appropriate to a formal meeting

? respond to the contr ibutions of others to progress interaction

? complete an accurate formal record of proceedings

Assessment guidelines

Candidates should take part in a formal business meeting and the papers produced should reflect this. Integration with other Outcomes or coursework may be appropriate. Each candidate should make preparatory notes for the presentation of an agenda item which may be supported by visual aids, or the distribution of supplementary papers. Each candidate must write up records of proceedings which follow standard conventions.

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 4

Administrative Information

Unit code: DE3N 34

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication Superclass category: AF

Date of publication: August 2003

Version: 01

Source: SQA

? Scottish Qualifications Authority 2003

This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part for educational purposes provided that no profit is derived from reproduction and that, if reproduced in part, the source is acknowledged.

Additional copies of this Unit specification can be purchased from the Scottish Qualifications Authority. The cost for each Unit specification is ￡2.50. (A handling charge of ￡1.95 will apply to all orders for priced items.)

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 5

Higher National Unit specification: support notes

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

This part of the Unit specification is offered as guidance. The support notes are not mandatory.

While the exact time allocated to this Unit is at the discretion of the centre, the notional design length is 40 hours.

Guidance on the content and context for this Unit

This Unit embeds the Core Skill of Communication at Higher level. Where it is delivered within a Higher National framework there is the potential for integration with other elements in the course which require the presentation of complex written or oral communication. In such a situation it is important that candidates are made aware of the need to achieve all the evidence for the Units that are being assessed.

The content will vary according to the vocational discipline or interests of the candidate, but communication media should be linked to the needs of typical business organisations or specific industries. Purposes may include, for example, providing information, bringing about change, gaining business and promoting good working practices and relationships. Communication may be with such people as, for example, colleagues, managers, clients or suppliers.

Guidance on the delivery and assessment of this Unit

The practical skills to be developed and assessed may usefully be integrated with other Unit work or employment practice. In cases where candidates lack the formal recommended entry requirements a discrete assessment approach which develops skills, and includes additional bridging support over an extended time, may be more helpful. The Unit may be undertaken by candidates planning employment in a wide range of vocational areas and assessment materials should be not be limiting or prescriptive. A flexible approach to assessment should encourage adapting to the circumstances and needs of the candidates. Where candidates are part-time, or where the Unit is delivered on a stand-alone basis, individual negotiation of content and delivery around employment demands and practices is recommended.

Exemplar and reference material, including appropriate software when available, should be available to support candidates. Precise remits and the setting of deadlines which allow for evaluation and re-negotiation will be an important aspect of delivery with allowance of sufficient time for feedback and skills development. Some written work may be undertaken outside the centre, conditions will be necessary to ensure authenticity; and the retention of drafts, outlines and planning documents signed by the candidate and the assessor may be useful.

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 6

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

Linking Outcomes can reinforce the development of practical skills needed in a business environment. An extended case study or project could be used to provide a context for the production of communication media and would be particularly useful for candidates lacking workplace experience, or for mixed vocational groups. As an example, Outcome 1 assessment could be based on a report, handbook or article examining and reaching conclusions on such business issues as employee relations, health and safety procedures, or training opportunities. Candidates might analyse, summarise and evaluate the effectiveness of this text. Next they could further research proposals of their own and present them orally, for consideration at a group meeting for Outcome 3. Finally they could collate and present information and conclusions as a report for Outcome 2.

A flexible approach which reflects the needs of candidates may, however, involve recognising that written and spoken skills may be developed using a range of different topics or issues, particularly when written reports are very specialised and the class group is mixed. Oral presentations in a meeting which explain and simplify complex procedures and applications to a non-expert group may be a particularly effective means of demonstrating complex communication skills. Graphic and pictorial information to support and enhance both written and oral communication, and the use of technology for researching, communicating and producing effective text and audio-visual support may be appropriate as reflecting business practice, although candidates without access to such resources should not be disadvantaged.

Outcomes 1 and 2

Outcome 1 formative activity should involve the study of a range of business texts in order that candidates are aware fully of the influences that affect communication, and the strengths and any potential weaknesses in the conventions adopted. Texts could provide a model for Outcome 2.

A detailed analysis is required in Outcome 2. The task is to present information logically and coherently. Layout, format and presentation should be appropriate to purpose and readership. Candidates should be encouraged to consider aspects such as any prior knowledge and expectations the intended reader has and how this might affect the structure of the document and the vocabulary used. Register and tone should be selected to reflect current practice in the vocational area. Texts which appear relatively informal, reflecting the practice of some newer industries, or which express complex ideas in a way that is accessible to a wide range of people should still have a high level of accuracy and coherence.

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 7

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

Outcome 3

The emphasis should be on developing transferable skills in the procedures for formal meetings, using training videos to demonstrate good practice where possible. Assessors may choose to chair where candidates lack the skills to do so. The meeting may be linked with the written outcomes, and may provide a useful source of information. If candidates are involved in a ‘live’ project they may choose to have a planning meeting for an event such as a show, display, or marketing proposal with individual reviews, demonstrations or reporting. A meeting could alternatively examine course and general employment issues and options, such as, for example, reporting on employment opportunities, flexible working and health policies and practices. Presentations of agenda items, including responding to comments or questions from others, should not generally exceed five minutes for each candidate.

Open learning

Outcomes 1 and 2 are appropriate to Open and to Flexible Learning approaches, such as on-line or distance learning, with tutor input support at all stages of draft and centre-devised supervision agreements to ensure controlled conditions for authenticity. For Outcome 3 publication, candidates must be directly observed by the assessor. This could be achieved either by arranging a meeting with candidate(s), by video conferencing or by the assessment of a video recorded performance which meets all assessment criteria.

Special needs

This Unit specification is intended to ensure that there are no artificial barriers to learning or assessment. Special needs of individual candidates should be taken into account when planning learning experiences, selecting assessment instruments or considering special alternative Outcomes for Units. For information on these, please refer to the SQA document Guidance on Special Assessment Arrangements (SQA, 2001).

HN Unit (DE3N 34): Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication 8

General information for candidates

Unit title: Communication: Analysing and Presenting Complex Communication

Effective Oral and Written Communication skills are essential to promote good relationships and best working practice in a business environment. They are highly valued by employers. Effective reading, writing, listening and talking is the basis of communicating with others.

This Unit will focus on the practical approaches needed for successful communication in the workplace. You will read business texts critically, examining not just the content, but the format, layout and style of a written text, and you will evaluate its strengths and any weaknesses. You will produce business documents such as reports, specifications, proposals and minutes. You will study group processes and the formal proceedings involved in meetings, and learn how to analyse situations and make and implement decisions. You will learn the uses and formats of record keeping. You will also learn how to present information effectively to other people, and how to respond to their comments and questions.

The skills developed