Unit of competency Outline

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12/09/2026 12:35 PM AWST

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Demonstrate navigation skills in a controlled environment

Demonstrate navigation skills in a controlled environment

Unit of competency
National Code
SISONAV201A
State Code
D6419
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
28/11/2011
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
15/10/2014
Original Release Date
07/06/2011
Nominal Hours
20
Field of Education
092101 - Sport And Recreation Activities
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to navigate in controlled environments where there are significant landmarks.
General notes
N/A
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan for navigation.
  • 1.1. Obtain and become familiar with map or maps for the activity.
  • 1.2. Identify symbols and information contained on the map and how these may be used in navigation.
  • 1.3. Apply information contained on the map to plan an efficient route or course and consider all relevant factors.
  • 1.4. Obtain and identify features of a compass and how it is used to maintain a designated course.
  • 1.5. Calculate grid and magnetic bearings using a map and compass.
  • 1.6. Obtain additional information to assist in navigation from the map.
  • 1.7. Identify emergency or contingency escape routes.
2. Navigate in controlled environments.
  • 2.1. Orientate map to surroundings with and without the use of a compass.
  • 2.2. Follow a route in controlled environments, demonstrating use of navigation aids according to relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures.
  • 2.3. Apply techniques for estimating distance travelled.
  • 2.4. Maintain, where necessary, a compass course while bypassing an obstacle.
  • 2.5. Identify unknown features in the field using map and compass.
  • 2.6. Select a route or course for the surroundings and conditions.
3. Evaluate navigations.
  • 3.1. Evaluate relevant aspects.
  • 3.2. Identify improvements for future navigations.
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.
Map or maps may include:
cadastral and topographic maps
charts
guide books and diagrams.
Symbols and information may include:
grid lines and numbers
contour lines
scale
map legend
topographic features
markers and beacons
water depth.
Relevant factors may include:

type of terrain and gradient
weather conditions
experience
hazards
access to required resources and facilities.
Additional information may include:
altitude gain or loss
distance
gradient
travelling time
magnetic bearings
water depth.
Surroundings may include:
ground or terrain
snow conditions
bodies of water
beacons and markers
natural formations
landmarks
man-made features.
Controlled environments may include:
areas reliably marked on maps
areas obvious on the ground or snow or water
tracks align with Class 4 Tracks within the Australian Standard for Walking Tracks.
Navigation aids may include:
track and creek junctions and crossings
survey markers
beacons
track markers
cairns
paths
lines
signs
arrows
compass
man-made objects or features
transits.
Relevant legislation may include:
occupational health and safety
permits or permission for access
environmental regulations.
Organisational policies and procedures may include:
occupational health and safety
use and maintenance of equipment
communication protocols
code of ethics.
Techniques for estimating distance may include:
time
observation of surroundings
pacing.
Obstacles may include:
rivers
logs
rocks
gullies
trees
snow conditions
exposed areas.
Relevant aspects may include:
objectives
planning process
activity site
weather
equipment selection
clothing selection
food selection
instructional content
instructional technique
assessment technique
group feedback
directing techniques
rescue techniques employed.
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 following is essential:
applies relevant process to plan a route in controlled environments and demonstrates navigation techniques to orientate and follow directions
seeks advice and feedback from leader to improve skills and ensure safety of self and group
evaluates and reflects on own navigation performance to identify strengths, weaknesses and areas that need improvement.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure participation in navigation activities in controlled environments that are of sufficient breadth and duration to demonstrate competency and consistency of performance.
Assessment must also ensure access to:
a suitable outdoor location, with tracks that are reliably marked on maps, are obvious on the ground and are inspected on a regular basis that align with Class 4 Tracks within the Australian Standard for Walking Tracks
navigation equipment such as map or maps, compass and activity specific equipment.
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:
observation of the planning and review process with evidence of reference to resources and aids
oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of navigation techniques
observation of safe participation and demonstration of navigation skills, such as maintaining a compass course while bypassing an obstacle
third-party reports from a supervisor detailing performance.
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:
SISOBWG201A Bushwalk in controlled environments
or
SISOSKT201A Demonstrate basic cross country skiing skills
or
SISORAF201A Demonstrate rafting skills on moving water.
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
C6226 SRONAV001B Navigate in tracked or easy untracked areas Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OBF34 SISOFLD006 Navigate in tracked environments Unit of competency
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