In almost every aspect of our lives, people need to be able to communicate with each other, work with each other, solve problems, use information and communication technology, and have a command of numeracy. People can no longer expect to stay in the same job all their lives, nor can they expect to follow the same working patterns. Significant developments in information technology and quicker and more effective ways of communicating with people all over the world have revolutionised many workplaces. Most people now recognise that training and education continues throughout our lives as we adapt and develop new skills to meet the needs of the ever changing workplace. The term

Designed for those who have a reasonable level of skill and experience of using the Core Skill in a workplace setting, for example, at intermediate or supervisor level.

Candidates may be working co-operatively with others on various activities as part of their existing job role. Evidence from more than one co-operative working activity can be used as evidence against either of the Unit tasks. The activity and/or activities should be relatively familiar to the candidate. The activity and/or activities should have a clear aim and be capable of being broken down into separate roles, which may be complex. The roles should be familiar to the candidate, although the relationship between them may not be immediately obvious. The interpersonal skills needed may be varied, some of which may be challenging. In assessing this Unit, your focus should be on the way the candidates went about the activity and/or activities, rather than whether or not the activity and/or activities were completely successful.

The Unit is designed for the workplace and the content should involve an activity and/or activities that are suited to the requirements of the candidate