21 Apr The difference between TAE Certificate IV Units and TAE Diploma Units.

As we prepare to re-offer TAE50216 Diploma of Training Design and Development to the general market, we find ourselves receiving questions as to the difference in the Units of Competency.

The basic difference is the level of performance and knowledge evidence requirements. Let us consider 2 similar Units of Competency:

TAEASS401 Plan assessment activities and processes

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan the assessment process, in a competency-based assessment system.

In planning activities and processes, individuals are required to identify the components of assessment tools, analyse and interpret assessment tools, and develop assessment instruments (also known as assessment tasks) and assessment plans.

The following extract from the Performance Evidence requirements of TAEASS401 states;

The candidate must demonstrate the ability to complete tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:

• planning and organising the assessment process on a minimum of five separate occasions
• planning and organising two Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments (which may be two of the five assessment processes above).

TAEASS501 Provide advanced assessment practice

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to lead assessment processes as a part of a continuous improvement strategy among a group of assessors within a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

It applies to experienced assessors who provide leadership, or guidance to others, who conduct assessments for an RTO.

The following extract from the Performance Evidence requirements of TAEASS501 states;

The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete the tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:

• undertaking the assessment of at least 20 individual candidates, against at least one unit of competency
• assessing against a total of at least 50 units of competency from training packages or accredited courses. This total may be made up of combinations of candidates and units that add up to 50.
• accurately documenting the outcomes of all assessments undertaken
• leading the assessment of a group or team of assessors, consisting of at least three individuals, and demonstrating how that leadership has led to improved processes and outcomes
• critically reviewing the assessment processes, and the approaches taken in these assessments, and proposing changes to improve both processes and outcomes.

You will note the required level of knowledge and skill is higher and more demanding in the Diploma unit than that of the Certificate IV, thus it holds a greater level of complexity. We do point out this is but one element of the differences in the 2 chosen units, there are in fact enormous differences in the requirements and it will take a much greater amount of time to complete a Diploma qualification than a Certificate IV one.

Why would you want to do a Diploma we hear you ask? Well, perhaps you wish to work in Compliance, or manage Trainers and Assessors, or position yourself at a higher level of implied authority than others. There are a myriad of reasons and they all relate to you and your aspirations for your life in VET.