# competencies

accessment:
Describes to supervisor their role in the team and their teams objectives.  Demonstrates ability to work as part of a team. Conflicts are resolved within time frames agreed with supervisor.

compentency:
Functions effectively as part of a team.

attitude:
Puts the team above personal self interest.

knowledge:
Knows that if the team is functioning well, then personal interests are most likely being catered for.


accessment:
Discusses issues related to ethics in an appropriate manner with an assessor. Demonstrates an ethical approach to work and relationships.

compentency:
Understands how ethics affect work relationships and NARI’s role in PNG.

behaviour:
Be able to explain how ethics affect work relationships and NARI’s role in PNG society.

knowledge:
Realises that ethical behaviour provides a strong foundation for research and life generally.


accessment:
Engages constructively and regularly (at least weekly) in discussions with team members, offering useful suggestions.

compentency:
Considers research activities in order to obtain maximum benefit for the client group and develops broad perspectives of research areas.

behaviour:
Is developing skills of critical and lateral thinking.  Is developing skills that show these new thought processes can be applied within NARI settings without causing undue offence.

attitude:
Keen to find improvements to even traditional systems. Displays a positive attitude towards new propositions, is able to think ‘outside the square’.  Keen to solve puzzling issues in the research situation whether on farm or on station. Recognises that these skills are part of a life-long process.

knowledge:
Staff realise how much more there is to know.


accessment:
Reflects at least weekly (preferably daily) on actions and readings.   Journals effectively and discusses new understandings with assessor.

compentency:
Keeps a journal that improves effectiveness in work through reflection on the past and planning for the future.

behaviour:
Consistently compiling a record of personal and research activities and formulating notes on ideas for research, grower concerns, improvement in workplace practices and professional and personal development.

attitude:
Considers time spent  reflecting and then writing a journal is time well spent.

knowledge:
Understands the difference between a journal and a diary.


accessment:
Work is effectively planned and completed.   Appointments are planned and kept in a timely manner.

compentency:
Prioritises and completes tasks according to work plan in an orderly manner.

behaviour:
Works efficiently completing tasks within the agreed milestone period.

attitude:
Displays an attitude of enthusiasm towards work and efficiency.

knowledge:
Understands and appreciates principles relating to effective time management. Knows the consequences of wasted time.


accessment:
Reports briefly on a weekly or fortnightly basis to mentor- in person, phone, email or written report.   Commitments and responsibilities are met and fulfilled.

compentency:
Develop and maintain an effective mentee mentor relationship.

behaviour:
Able to receive encouragement and constructive criticism.

attitude:
Getting the best out of a mentoring relationship is a valuable part of learning. Able to take advice.


accessment:
Mentor meets appointments with mentee and helps define achievable objectives.   Mentor assists mentees to fulfil personal and NARI goals.

compentency:
Develop and maintain a successful mentor mentee relationship which leads to personal growth and increased capacity to work effectively in the mentee.

behaviour:
Develops a supportive relationship with other staff to help them to realise their full potential.

attitude:
Understands that supporting the development of the potential of other staff in the areas of skills,  knowledge and attitudes is an important role for all staff.


compentency:
Is gender sensitive professionally and personally.

behaviour:
Takes gender issues into account in  relation to workplace practices. Considers whether the application to the outcomes of research will place  extra burdens on women and children.

attitude:
Makes sure that issues relating to gender are always considered when collecting information from farmers and planning research.

knowledge:
Understands gender issues in agriculture and rural community development and that it is essential to consult and work with women as well as men.


accessment:
Analyses projects and offers suggestions removing gender bias.

compentency:
Analyses situations from the perspective of both genders. This competency needs work??

behaviour:
Can analyse projects in terms of ownership, work, and decision-making using gender disaggregated data.

attitude:
Sensitive to gender in workplace practice and project reporting. Willing to address issues of gender in a proper and reasonable manner.

knowledge:
Appreciates that possible gender biases must be considered when analysing and planning research.


accessment:
Discusses both sides of a conflict impartially and resolves conflicts in a positive (win:win) manner. Team leaders have set in place regular team meetings to promote open discussion among members.

compentency:
Understands the causes of conflict and ways of resolving conflicts.

behaviour:
Sets times for regular team meetings to promote good team relationships. Acts quickly to both reduce and deal with issues that lead to conflict.

attitude:
Has a manner that minimises conflict without becoming a ‘door-mat’ in personal relationships.

knowledge:
Knows how to minimise and resolve conflicts that arise in the workplace and home. This is a life-long process but knowledge gained and applied will be beneficial.


accessment:
Discusses material that has been read in ways that show effective comprehension.

compentency:
Reads with understanding. Able to discuss material that has been read.

behaviour:
Reads and comprehends writing to a level appropriate for the staff category.  Continues to read widely.

attitude:
Desires to understand what needs to be done- and reads to ensure that appropriate action is taken. Displays interest in material read and actively seeks new material appropriate to the position.


accessment:
Written communications are clear, relevant and concise. Skills demonstrated are acceptable for the staff category.

compentency:
Writes clearly, legibly, and to the point.

behaviour:
Writes well with clarity and logic appropriate to the audience.

knowledge:
Knows the elements of appropriate written communication- for the particular job at hand.


accessment:
Accidents do not occur through unsafe work practises. Supervisor or assessor observes safe practises and correct use of safety equipment.

compentency:
Not behaving in any way that puts self or others at risk. Declares lack of skill with dangerous tasks. Uses techniques and methods as instructed at all times.

behaviour:
Works safely. Follows the techniques and methods of safe work habits as trained. Is able to say clearly  that  he/she  does not have particular skills. Ensures that onlookers maintain safe distances from dangerous equipment.  Encourages others to use safe practices.

attitude:
Considers the welfare of self and others. Demonstrate a willingness to speak up if unsafe practices endanger life of self or others, including bystanders.

knowledge:
Knows the major hazards risks to self and others in their workplace. Knows how to minimise hazards.


accessment:
Demonstrates safe lifting techniques required by particular staff category.

compentency:
Uses lifting techniques that protect workers from injury.

behaviour:
Lifts using correct body position. Seeks help when objects are too heavy for one person to lift. Uses equipment if it is supplied for the task. Staff use reliable techniques/procedures that minimise the risk of injury.

attitude:
Is willing to adopt techniques and strategies to avoid short and long term injury.

knowledge:
Understands the likely effects on workers who regularly use wrong lifting techniques.


topic:
Occupational Overuse Syndrome – (Repetitive strain

accessment:
Is using safe work habits.  Discusses ways being taken to prevent OOS with an assessor.

compentency:
Be able to set up and maintain a healthy office and develop healthy work habits.  Able to use micro relaxation technique when using keyboard for long periods.

behaviour:
Uses keyboards in ways that reduce OOS, sets up monitors and keyboards at appropriate heights.

attitude:
Prevention is very definitely better than cure.

knowledge:
Knows that OOS is a very serious debilitating injury. Knows the benefits of ‘micro-relaxation’


accessment:
Demonstrates skills and discusses actions required to an appropriate assessor.

compentency:
Takes appropriate steps to manage serious bleeding, shock, broken bone.  Copes with typical local field issues; snakes, drinking water at work, stings.

behaviour:
Able to demonstrate the prescribed skills.

attitude:
SAFETY FIRST - Positive attitude to prevention of injury and preventable illness. Extremely protective attitude toward the first aid equipment and supplies.

knowledge:
Understands the limits to their knowledge and be willing to seek expert advice. Understand basics of first aid. Understands the need for prompt first aid. Understands the potential effectiveness of well-applied first aid.


compentency:
Manages simple cuts and abrasions so that infections are unlikely. Recognises symptoms of possible chemical poisoning.  Copes appropriately with typical local field issues; snakes, drinking water at work, stings.

attitude:
Positive attitude to prevention of injury and preventable illness. Protective attitude toward the first aid equipment and supplies.

knowledge:
Understands the need for prompt first aid. Understands the potential effectiveness of well applied first aid.


accessment:
Health and safety standards are adhered to.

compentency:
Aware of workplace health and safety requirements and ensures standards are followed.

behaviour:
Ensures that health and safety standards (e.g.. hearing protection, eye protection, protective footwear) are known by all parties and that these are adhered to.  Ensures that at least one staff member at each site has first aid training.

knowledge:
Aware of health and safety standards in PNG.  Understands how standards slip if staff are not monitored.


topic:
Chemical transport, handling and disposal.

accessment:
Chemicals are handled, transported and disposed of safely.

compentency:
Handles chemicals as instructed, using appropriate levels of self protection, protection of others and care for containers during transport. Disposes of chemicals appropriately as per NARI standards.

behaviour:
Correctly identifies levels of chemical hazards. Handles chemicals as instructed. Uses protective clothes as instructed. Cleans any contamination of the vehicle or areas where any spill has occurred as instructed. Stores any issued protective equipment  a

attitude:
Safe work habits will protect  people and the project.

knowledge:
Basic label reading (chemical names and  appropriate handling techniques for  each). Realises the risks to self, others, crops, livestock and the environment from improper chemical handling.


accessment:
Written and verbal reports show that security issues are being monitored and acted upon effectively reducing threats to NARI goals and activities on station.

compentency:
Observes and records threats to station and personal security.

behaviour:
Maintains a vigilant watch on station property and personnel.  Ensures comprehensive recording of incidents.

attitude:
Careful observation helps identify security risks.

knowledge:
Good understanding of potential security threats on station and how problems can be avoided.  Understands the importance of discipline and team work to counteract security threats.


topic:
Security officers- reporting and intervention

accessment:
Security officer describes steps taken to improve station security, and discusses some incidents and actions taken with assessor.

compentency:
Reports to management and knows when and how to intervene when station security threatened.

behaviour:
Reports on security threats to management on a regular basis.  Responds appropriately to security threats.

attitude:
Willing to monitor and respond to security threats while minimising risk to self.   Prepared to seek assistance and work in a team.

knowledge:
Good understanding of how security problems can be avoided.  Understands the importance of discipline and team work to counteract security threats.


accessment:
Describes to assessor wise use of ladders and issues to be careful of.  Uses ladders safely.

compentency:
Uses ladders safely. Checks ladders for safety- strength, angle, secure surface and electric wires  before use. Stores ladders in a safe and secure way.

behaviour:
Checks ladders for safe use before using. Places ladders in a safe way during all use.  Avoids typical hazards like; slippery surfaces,  incorrect angles,  electrical hazards. Always returns ladders to agreed safe and secure storage places after use.

knowledge:
Knows who to report to when equipment is unsafe.


accessment:
Discusses cutting tools with assessor- use and abuse and shows ability to sharpen and use safely. In general work practise tools are used safely, with due regard for others.

compentency:
Cutting tools are used in ways that are safe for the worker and fellow workers.  Cutting edges are maintained to the standard required for the particular tools. Moving parts and handles of cutting tools are maintained. Tools are stored as required by supervisor

behaviour:
Safely uses all cutting tools as instructed. Regularly sharpens cutting edges  to the standard required using the sharpening equipment as instructed. Always uses eye and hearing protection as instructed when using mechanical grinders. Maintains tool handles

attitude:
Appreciates that safe work habits protect employment. Values all tools and equipment.  (Even the most simple tools are precious.).

knowledge:
Understands why the safe use methods as per instruction are a very good way to avoid injury to people and to protect tools. Understand the reasons for the different edge shapes for different tools. Understands the reasons for using different sharpening equipment


accessment:
Tools are being maintained and used safely and in a manner that leads to long life.

compentency:
Uses carpentry and plumbing tools safely and appropriately.

behaviour:
Uses carpentry and plumbing tools safely and appropriately.

attitude:
Tools are expensive, hard to replace, therefore we take good care of tools.


accessment:
Whether under test or in normal operation use is as per competency standard.

compentency:
Sharpens, maintains, adjusts and uses chainsaws competently and safely.

behaviour:
Safely uses chainsaws and ensures others keep safe distances

knowledge:
Has understanding of operation of chainsaw, kickback, tree felling.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required. Discusses key issues relating to defensive driving satisfactorily with assessor.

compentency:
Drives in a safe, competent manner with competency in defensive driving skills.

behaviour:
Drives in a safe manner under different road and climatic conditions.

attitude:
Demonstrating the mind set that the vehicle, its passengers and cargo are more important than winning or being right.

knowledge:
Knows the typical PNG driving hazards and be able to detail strategies to minimise them as well as minimise risks involved in travel.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required. Discusses key issues relating to carrying passengers satisfactorily with assessor.

compentency:
Implements NARI's policy on use of vehicles, passenger safety and safe transport of cargo.

behaviour:
Able to apply safe NARI procedures even when pressured by wantoks.

knowledge:
Understands NARI's safety policy and need for close adherence.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required. Discusses key issues relating to urban driving satisfactorily with assessor.

compentency:
Demonstrates urban defensive driving techniques

behaviour:
Demonstrate urban defensive driving techniques.

attitude:
Demonstrating the mind set that the vehicle, it’s passengers and cargo are more important than winning or being right.

knowledge:
Knows the typical PNG urban hazards and be able to detail strategies to minimise them.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required. Discusses key issues relating to rural driving satisfactorily with assessor.

compentency:
Demonstrates rural defensive driving techniques including anti-skid techniques.

behaviour:
Demonstrate rural defensive driving techniques.

knowledge:
Knows the typical PNG rural hazards and be able to detail strategies to minimise them.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required. Discusses key issues relating to 4WD driving satisfactorily with assessor.

compentency:
Demonstrates 4WD  driving techniques  to cope with mud, steepness, narrow rough roads and bridges. Demonstrates wisdom in knowing what road hazard is too risky for their skills and the vehicle they have.

behaviour:
Demonstrates 4WD driving skills in challenging conditions. Demonstrates wise decisions in choosing where and when not to drive a 4WD vehicle. Demonstrates ability to extract a vehicle from a bog.

knowledge:
Understands  how to deal with typical PNG hazards and be able to detail strategies to deal with them.


accessment:
Reports are clear, timely and lead to safer travel for driver and passengers.

compentency:
Reports to supervisor on maintenance issues/Vehicle damage issues and accidents. Seeks to ensure appropriate action is taken.

behaviour:
Completes reports in a competent fashion, ensuring that they reach appropriate people for action.

knowledge:
Knows NARI reporting policy with respect to vehicles and safety issues.


accessment:
Demonstrates skills required and discusses these with assessor.

compentency:
Estimates vehicle loads and ensures that vehicles are loaded safely. Predicts problems or particular hazards, during transit, with a typical range of cargo and driving conditions.

behaviour:
Able to estimate the weight of various cargoes and relate that estimate to safe loading of a given vehicle. Able to predict problems or particular hazards,  during transit, with a typical range of cargo.

knowledge:
Knows the problems that occur through overloading of vehicles.


compentency:
Uses rope to securely hold a range of cargo on a vehicle deck. Able to use modern tie down devices to securely hold a range of cargo on a vehicle deck.

behaviour:
Uses rope in a way that will ensure loads remain secure throughout a journey.  Knots used do not compromise the longevity of the rope.

knowledge:
Knows suitable knots and likely problems arising from inadequately secured loads- compensation claims…


accessment:
Demonstrates skills and knowledge required for waste disposal and discusses these with assessor.

compentency:
Manages waste with due regard to health and safety.

behaviour:
Ensures that all staff follow appropriate waste management procedures.

knowledge:
Knows key chemicals and waste management procedures as outlined by NARI.


accessment:
Is contributing actively to NARI working groups which will arrive at decisions on areas of high research potential and progress to definite conclusions and goals through workshops.

compentency:
Demonstrated involvement in forming teams and areas of potential research debated and defined through framers contacts and information, literature reviews and international expertise.

behaviour:
Information gathering is firm and sustained.

attitude:
Realizes that there is no gain without pain and that prioritisation conclusions can only be satisfactorily achieved with very considerable leg work. Willing to encourage lateral and critical thinking within NARI teams and not dwelling solely on past research methods.

knowledge:
An understanding that whereas training in some aspects of research prioritisation will be beneficial, the crux of the prioritisation process is in developing good information on agriculture and the client groups relationships within the country.


accessment:
NARI sets in place  interactive teams to investigate potential programme areas for long term benefits. The teams act effectively to develop the required knowledge to make appropriate conclusions and recommendations.

compentency:
Develops the mechanisms to progress to competent programme prioritisation within the NARI structure.  Organises systems to take fully into consideration the economic and social needs of farming communities.

behaviour:
It should be the concerted action of research teams to develop the broad areas of most rewarding programmes and that the challenge to individual researchers and sub teams is to devise the projects / experiments to address the priority programme area challenges.

attitude:
There should be a realization that prioritisation should start before and not at the end of project / experiment formulation. No centre should adopt  insular policies / proposals which do not have  a prioritised maximum national benefit perspective.

knowledge:
Knowing that for appropriate research direction it will require sustained and coordinated action involving a large number of NARI staff to arrive at a consensus of programme / project priority setting.


accessment:
Project/ experiment proposals formulated in line with prioritised programme objectives.

compentency:
Following programme prioritisation,  develops, as part of research teams, realistic but innovative research proposals.  Sources information from varied stakeholders on agricultural priority needs, evaluates discusses and identifies proposals.

behaviour:
Develops, and assists others to develop, research projects / experiments for NARI with involvement of stakeholders and scientists.

attitude:
Inclusive attitude to research program development.  Willing to develop skills in critical thinking. Willing to take advice and criticism.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of a scientific approach when planning research.  Understands the criteria applied by NARI to judge proposals.


accessment:
Prepares the project outline competently.

compentency:
Researches literature,  solicits information from all possible contacts critically and thoroughly. Develops project / experiment  proposals addressing the prime needs of prioritised programmes.

behaviour:
Prepares project / experiment proposals in line with NARI methodology.  Regularly involves others in debate over research methodology and directions. Subjects proposals to peer reviews / seminars.

attitude:
Willing to develop skills in critical thinking. Willing to take advice and criticism.  Always remaining curious and questioning as to best approaches. Assesses appropriateness of on-farm or on-station research.


accessment:
Produces valid arguments for the experimental method.

compentency:
Develops hypotheses that can be tested. Defines specific objectives, which the research should accomplish.

behaviour:
Uses a scientific approach in development of research programs in collaboration with other staff.

attitude:
Willing to develop skills in critical thinking. Willing to take advice and criticism.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of using the scientific approach when developing hypotheses.


accessment:
Trial aims, objectives and working schedule etc clearly and competently documented.

compentency:
Writes the experiment pre-schedules in the appropriate format and with clarity so that it is an effective plan for the trial execution.

behaviour:
Ensures that every activity within the life of the trial is clearly planned and documented so that there is no room for mistakes by subordinate staff.

attitude:
Desires that there is a professional approach to executing the trial. Works as part of a team, whether the research is conducted on-farm or on-research stations.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of planning and  documentation to achieve excellence in the trial outcome.


topic:
Cost Benefit Analysis of Research Investment

accessment:
Completes discounted cash flow analysis of proposed NARI research projects designed to increase agricultural productivity

compentency:
Applies appropriate cost benefit analysis methods. Ability to estimate the annual costs and benefits arising from a research project and to enter these estimates in a spreadsheet to calculate the Net Present Value, Benefit Cost Ratio and Payback Period.

behaviour:
Application of the skills required to carry out a Cost Benefit Analysis in conjunction with fellow researchers and ability to discuss the results to assist in priority setting

attitude:
Willingness to take the time to provide data to undertake a Cost Benefit Analysis of projects prior to project submission and following the project completion

knowledge:
An understanding of the impacts that research projects may have on benefits and costs both at the smallholder level and at the organisational level, an understanding of the need to discount future benefits and costs and the ability to interpret the profit.


topic:
Profitability of farm options- measuring

accessment:
Budgets prepared take into account all relevant issues and help NARI clients assess and compare the profitability of alternative farm enterprises and management practices.

compentency:
Ability to use spreadsheets to prepare simple enterprise gross margins, partial budgets and be competent in using concepts of production economics, for example, the law of diminishing returns.

behaviour:
Be able to prepare and discuss budgets with villagers and document the data for subsequent publication and use within NARI.

attitude:
Ability to learn from the farmers and willingness to use quantitative analyses to assist with management decisions.

knowledge:
Knowledge of gross margins analysis, partial budgets and concepts of production economics.  Knows how to use spreadsheets.


accessment:
Donor agencies are contacted by staff member and receive proposals. Donor agencies provide funds to assist NARI achieve its goals.

compentency:
Acts as a primary contact person with external funding agencies. Builds good relationships with donor agency staff. Influences donors as to PNG /NARI priorities for research including assistance for workshops to develop research proposals.

behaviour:
Primary contact person with external funding agencies providing information both to NARI and the external agency. Ever mindful that a good reputation for NARI  research capacity in the eyes of the donors will only come from sustained dedication.

attitude:
Important to keep all parties informed of research activities, problems and outcomes. Realizes that well executed sponsored projects / activities will foster further donor willingness.

knowledge:
Knows well the project  implementation, reporting and financial accounting requirements of each external agency.


accessment:
Maps are used constructively as part of team processes that lead to benefits for NARI stakeholders.

compentency:
Able, with some assistance, to create and read maps using mapping software. Able to participate in ground truthing surveys. Able, with some assistance, to manipulate data to identify specified zones such as at-risk areas.

behaviour:
With assistance uses data from PINGRIS, MASP and Farming System databases to produce maps up to the final layout stage.

attitude:
Desire to use this technology to improve the information available to research planners in NARI.  Willing to seek advice from mapping unit.

knowledge:
Understands limitations and potential of the PINGRIS, MASP and Farming System Data Bases.


accessment:
Projects are managed effectively with organisation, quality, cost and time being appropriate. Projects run within budget.

compentency:
Understands scope, organisation, quality, cost and time- the five principles for effective project management.

behaviour:
Practices effective project management. Uses reports from financial management personnel to ensure that expenditure is as per budget and variance is justified.

attitude:
Team player and leadership is appropriate.

knowledge:
Has good theoretical background to build a strong management base in the field.


accessment:
Log frames produced make sense and assist in developing useful work plans.

compentency:
Understands and uses log frames effectively.

behaviour:
Constructs log frames to assist with development and implementation of research projects.

attitude:
Willingness to use planning tools to improve project performance.

knowledge:
Knows how to use log frames to improve project management.


accessment:
GANT charts produced make sense and assist in developing useful work plans.

compentency:
Uses software to produce effective GANT charts as part of project management.

behaviour:
Understands and uses GANT charts effectively

attitude:
Keeps things simple and clear, understanding the importance of communicating with the audience.


accessment:
Resources in terms of materials, equipment and people are made available as per work plan, from both within and outside NARI.

compentency:
Adequate and appropriate logistical support is made available for the successful completion of the project.

behaviour:
Plans projects to ensure adequate logistical support will be available when needed.

attitude:
Good planning the key to providing adequate logistical support.

knowledge:
Knows key principles of resource and logistical management. Knows NARI resources and how to obtain and schedule them. Knows how to obtain resources from outside NARI.


accessment:
Brief monthly reports reflect on previous reporting,  inform management of issues and provide possible solutions. Reports focus on how activities can be changed to improve the fulfilment of NARI vision and mission.  Workplans and journals document evidence of issues reported.

compentency:
Completes brief reports for NARI HQ management which are clear, aligned with work plan and timely.

behaviour:
Records information on a daily basis that assists in writing reports.

attitude:
Reporting is an important part of the job.

knowledge:
Understands the standards required by NARI in reporting on research.


accessment:
Timely milestone reports are completed to an acceptable standard.   Reports reflect on previous reporting,  inform agencies of issues and provide possible solutions.  Highlight ways in which donor agency resources  are assisting NARI meet its vision and mission.

compentency:
Able to complete satisfactorily milestone reports for funding agency.

behaviour:
Maintains up to date records and reports as required to external agencies.

attitude:
Understands the importance of reporting activities to external agencies when required.

knowledge:
Knows the project reporting requirements of each external agency.


accessment:
Team outputs match work plan. During interviews by assessor team members speak positively of team leadership skills.

compentency:
Leads team democratically, encouraging input from all members. Makes decisions which lead to successful outcomes in terms of NARI goals and vision statement.

behaviour:
Provides the team with regular team meetings where results to date and plans for further research are discussed.

attitude:
Will include all staff involved in a project in the planning and implementation.

knowledge:
Knows the value of teamwork and the dynamics of leading a successful team.


accessment:
Team leader is not regularly doing tasks that are the responsibility of others. Team members demonstrate new skills and able to take on new responsibilities. Team members speak of effective delegation skills in the leader.

compentency:
Delegates to appropriate people, in timely manner, ensuring resources are available, clear and time bound objectives are set and monitored.

behaviour:
Staff work to their maximum potential, through effective delegation and ongoing training.

attitude:
Trusts, motivates, encourages; brings out the best in those delegated to. Is accessible for clarification.

knowledge:
Knows staff abilities/attitudes and principles of delegation.


accessment:
During interviews by assessor team members speak positively of encouragement given by leader. Assessor also documents observations where encouragement has been given for good performance.

compentency:
Recognises and rewards high standards of achievement within the team.

behaviour:
Rewards excellence with verbal comments, letters of commendation and is involved sufficiently in the project to bring out the best in the team.

attitude:
Looks to identify and give recognition to  high levels of achievement.

knowledge:
Rewards excellence from the team of researchers - including ancillary staff with letters of commendation, verbal comments and is involved sufficiently in the project to bring out the best in the team or researchers.


accessment:
Written records and copies of letters show that agreed disciplinary procedures are followed.

compentency:
Discipline is handled fairly, in a timely manner and before issues become problems.

behaviour:
Encourages good performance but deals with issues requiring discipline. Involves 3rd parties as required by NAR standards.

attitude:
Willing to take disciplinary steps to improve team performance.

knowledge:
Knows NARI standards and understands the various disciplinary measures available and what is appropriate in each situation.


accessment:
Written budgets are submitted that are clear, timely and show all likely income and expenditure for the project.

compentency:
Budgets research work effectively.  Able to track and maintain visibility and status of expenditure.

behaviour:
Budgets research work and uses budgets to manage and prioritise research activities.

knowledge:
Understands the hidden costs of research can be quite substantial.  Able to provide estimates of actual cost of research activities.


accessment:
Petty cash reports are clear, timely and show all relevant transactions with receipts as appropriate.

compentency:
Manages petty cash accounts appropriately, submits receipts with brief reports.

behaviour:
Manages petty cash and associated receipts with integrity and capability.

attitude:
Integrity, understands importance of seeking receipts for all petty cash expenditure.

knowledge:
Knows how to record petty cash expenditure in both hand written ledgers and  computers.


accessment:
Reports are clear, timely and accurate, documenting all transactions.

compentency:
Uses appropriate software to record financial transactions, producing  reports and reconciling bank statements.

behaviour:
Maintains accurate and up to date financial records that keep research managers up to date.

attitude:
Honesty and transparency in financial matters is of utmost importance.

knowledge:
Knows accounting principles and NARI financial systems and requirements.


accessment:
Assembles a comprehensive list of NARI clients and opens dialogue.

compentency:
Identifies NARI clients and is involved in maintaining linkages between stations and clients (e.g. NGO and community groups).

behaviour:
Involved in working with NARI's clients. Participates in consultation with stakeholder interest groups.

attitude:
Focused on the problems and opportunities for development of farmers involved in smallholder agriculture.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of including contributions from NARI's clients  setting research priorities.


accessment:
Adds useful information to a NARI client database, which assists in understanding clients, determining needs and implications for research.

compentency:
Develop a wide knowledge of the broad based farming systems in the client areas, the key leading entrepreneurs / peer group growers, the players in the marketing chain, the consumer needs, the export and import substitution opportunities.

behaviour:
Willing to get NARI personnel out into the real world of production and marketing and continually asses the client needs.

attitude:
Not to be complacent as to what is happening in the real world and be ever humble  as to regarding the client position.

knowledge:
Has the knowledge to develop an excellent data base  for client needs and, to understand and utilize the relevant methods for  interaction with clients.


accessment:
During interviews by assessor stakeholders speak positively regarding the contact with NARI staff member.   Stakeholders are appropriately informed and their suggestions are considered respectfully and actioned as appropriate. On farm research is conducted appropriately with clarity and sensitivity to farmers.

compentency:
Able to respond with sensitivity and with respect to suggestions from stakeholders.

behaviour:
Listens carefully to suggestions from stakeholders- both men and women.

attitude:
Recognises that stakeholders must have an input to research development and implementation and is willing to make appropriate changes to the project as a result of the stakeholder input.

knowledge:
Knows how to listen to people and to make sure  they really understand the information that is being given to them. Knows how to assess and analyse the information and draw useful inferences from it.


accessment:
Explains the philosophy behind PRAP surveys and exercises demonstrating a clear and accurate understanding.   Documented evidence of participation in PRAP surveys and exercises.

compentency:
Understands the underlying philosophy of PRAP surveys and able to assist with running PRAP exercises with village stakeholders. Reports lead to action in terms of researchable hypotheses for NARI researchers.

behaviour:
Familiar with the techniques used in the PRAP process and able to choose the best techniques to use in each particular survey. Confident enough to adapt or change the technique planned for use if responses from community participants to techniques used indicate they are not working. Able to contribute to overall analysis of results and report writing.

attitude:
Willingness to learn from experiences and improve competence in carrying out PRAP exercises. Willingness to work as part of a team to both collect information and assist stakeholders in their deliberations.

knowledge:
Recognises the link between information gathered using the PRAP process and prioritising research.


accessment:
Written report including analysis of small-holder cropping enterprises.   Relevant surveys undertaken and documented.

compentency:
Undertakes surveys and analyses results of small-holder cropping enterprises, including social, cultural factors in analysis. Completes simple experiments with farmers.

behaviour:
Collects realistic data on crop areas, productivity and problems being encountered.  Good observation skills to ensure reliable information, including social/cultural information is collected from farmers.

attitude:
Enjoys working in a team to collect information.  Constructively critical of methodology. Values onfarm research as a valuable means of developing new knowledge in partnership with farming communities.

knowledge:
Understands that the value of data is diminished if there are faults in collection and analysis.


accessment:
Written report including analysis of small-holder livestock enterprises.   Relevant surveys undertaken and documented.

compentency:
Undertakes surveys and analyses results of small-holder livestock enterprises. Completes simple experiments with farmers.

behaviour:
Collects realistic data on livestock numbers, productivity and problems being encountered.  Good observation skills to ensure reliable information, including social/cultural information is collected from farmers.


accessment:
Has an effective database, either on computer or in a notebook of contacts. This facilitates effective networking among NARI staff and stakeholders.

compentency:
Collects and records appropriate relevant personal details of stakeholders interviewed.   Stakeholders are followed up appropriately.

behaviour:
Listens and records relevant data in a wide range of settings.   Keen to keep in touch with contacts.

attitude:
Keeping in touch with people, learning from others and information sharing is a crucial part of the personal development of everyone.

knowledge:
Understands the value of listening, learning and information sharing.   Knows how to use databases to allow information storage and retrieval.


accessment:
Presents useful information in an interesting way to a relevant audience.

compentency:
Plans and gives formal/informal talks/presentations.

behaviour:
Presents information clearly and logically using the most appropriate visual aids. Tailors communication to target audience.

attitude:
Wants to ensure that communication is clear, understood by the target audience and economical for time.

knowledge:
Understands the factors that must be considered to ensure effective communication. Knows how to prepare effective audio / visual material to assist in presentations.


accessment:
Demonstrates capacity to interact with NARI stakeholders in a mutually beneficial way.   Recognises that O&L is a means to the development of useful technology.

compentency:
Clearly explains why effective O&L is important for NARI. Capacity to be involved in O&L activities.

behaviour:
Involvement in O&L process with PRAP, RRDAC, farmer field day presentations, surveys and discussion groups.  Active in ensuring research material is available in an appropriate form to stakeholders. Values farmer's knowledge and the importance of their knowledge.

attitude:
Pleased to be involved in O&L activities. Careful to represent NARI to stakeholders in a positive light. Willing to patiently and carefully listen to what stakeholders have to say and understand and apply the need for two-way linkages to be formed.

knowledge:
Understands that approximately 30% of NARI activities must be directed to O&L. Values farmers’ knowledge and their ability to give information to NARI.   Understands the O&L process of both gathering information from and delivering information to stakeholders.


accessment:
Demonstrates ability to interact well with male and female farmers in demonstrating new techniques.

compentency:
Explains and demonstrates the value of the adoption of a particular technique, new variety, or species to local farmers, taking into account farmer constraints. Gender sensitive.

behaviour:
Involvement with farmers to disseminate useful technologies and to inform them of potential new varieties or species that could be farmed. Is aware of and takes farmer constraints into consideration.

attitude:
Appreciates that everyone in the project has a role in outreach.

knowledge:
Knowledge of a range of appropriate technologies.


accessment:
Prepares a publication that meets NARI extension publication criteria.

compentency:
Prepares a first draft of an outreach publication.   Edits outreach material to ensure that the language used is at an appropriate level for the target audience and that the information presented is accurate, clear and concise.  Follows NARI publications guidelines in preparing publications.

behaviour:
Writes clearly, concisely and with appropriate style for a target audience. Able to assemble information so that extension officers can disseminate it.

attitude:
Enthusiastic to disseminate information learned from research to colleagues, extension workers and farmers.  Will test draft publication with the target audience and be willing to listen to criticism and make changes to written work and oral communication.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of tailoring the information to a clearly defined audience for effective communication.


accessment:
Demonstrates ability to interact with farmers in agronomy extension exercises and farm based trials.

compentency:
Participates in farm visits and agronomy extension activities.

behaviour:
Extends information  gained from agronomy research to farmers.

attitude:
Prepared to work in partnership with farmers in application of research findings.

knowledge:
Basic understanding of small-holder agronomic production strengths and constraints and the need for extension of research findings.  Able to conduct on farm trials as a means of introducing new technologies.


accessment:
Demonstrates ability to interact with farmers in livestock extension exercises and farm based trials.

compentency:
Participates in farm visits and livestock extension activities.

behaviour:
Extends information to farmers gained from livestock research to farmers.

knowledge:
Basic understanding of small-holder animal production strengths and constraints and the need for extension of research findings.  Able to conduct on farm trials as a means of introducing new technologies.


topic:
Information and Outreach program with farmers

accessment:
Plans, budgets and runs an acceptable extension programme as part of a team.

compentency:
Plans and carries out extension programs submitting appropriate budget.

behaviour:
Works as part of an extension team.  Looks at each element of an extension activity- travel, communication, food, accommodation and costs each.  Reduces costs of extension without reducing effectiveness of the extension activity.

attitude:
Willing to monitor effectiveness of extension, minimise costs and strive for improvement.

knowledge:
Understands the process of extension and how to maximise impact.  Able to use budgets to control and monitor costs.


accessment:
Prepares and presents a seminar at an acceptable level to a NARI stakeholder group.

compentency:
Communicates effectively in public using a variety of techniques.

behaviour:
Be able to select a communication technology appropriate to the audience, define key issues, present logically and clearly even when technology fails.

attitude:
Prepares carefully and thoroughly for aural and visual presentations.

knowledge:
Knows how to communicate with a wide range of NARI stakeholders (peers, farmers, RRDAC's, govt.).


accessment:
Prepares a paper that meets NARI publication criteria for publication in a journal.

compentency:
Prepares research results for journal publication in a competent and effective manner.

behaviour:
Writes clearly, concisely and with appropriate style for a target audience but applying professional ethics in regard to the veracity of the information.  Ensures that there is a process of peer review applied to the results before publication.

attitude:
Places a high value on written communication.  Willing to listen to  peer criticism and make changes to written work.

knowledge:
Knows that the research process is not finished until the information has been made available to scientists, extension personnel and the farming community.


accessment:
Produces a newspaper article demonstrating the required techniques.

compentency:
Produces clear, concise and interesting newspaper articles which may include appropriate illustrations.

behaviour:
Be able to work with journalists to ensure that the message is not lost by the medium and select appropriate illustrations that reinforce the message in the writing.

attitude:
Cooperative with newspaper media and values role of newspapers in communication.

knowledge:
Understands how to write articles that are suitable for popular press.  Aware that articles need to be checked by appropriate NARI officers before release to press. Aware of the value of appropriate illustrations which add to the impact of the written  message.


topic:
Use of radio and television to communicate researc

accessment:
Contributes at an acceptable level to the production of radio and TV programmes.

compentency:
Works with radio and TV personnel to get a message across effectively.

behaviour:
Works with journalists to ensure that clear and accurate messages are presented to the public.

attitude:
Values opportunity to work with radio and television in getting message to NARI stakeholders.

knowledge:
Knows how to present information clearly using both radio and television in an entertaining and informative manner.


accessment:
Demonstrates ability to prepare and use visual aids to an acceptable level.

compentency:
Makes good use of a range of visual aids including posters and demonstration sites.

behaviour:
Uses a range of visual aids to effectively communicate with farmers.  This includes poster presentations, information bulletins and on-site demonstrations.

attitude:
Willing to develop skills in preparing visual aids to enhance communication.  Also ensures that the key messages are not lost by using over-powering technology.

knowledge:
Knows how to prepare simple posters, etc using hand and computer techniques.  Be able to work with graphic artists to ensure that the key messages are clear.  Knows how to  use techniques to demonstrate a technology so that the audience will understand.


accessment:
Can produce presentations using Power Point and  make an effective presentation to a reasonable standard.

compentency:
Prepares simple power point (or similar) presentations where printouts will be photocopied onto acetates for use with overhead projectors. Uses appropriate colours and backgrounds to reduce ink waste.

behaviour:
Prepares clear, legible 'overheads' using power point.

attitude:
Keeps things simple, doesn’t get 'carried away' with the bells and whistles available in power point. Does not allow the medium to get in the way of the message.

knowledge:
Knows how to use power point to produce legible acetates for use with groups.


accessment:
Can produce presentations using Power Point and  make an effective presentation to a high standard.

compentency:
Prepares PowerPoint (or similar) presentations, at an advanced level, and uses information effectively in presenting using acetate slides or multi media projector.

behaviour:
Regular use of Power Point in seminars and other talks. Developing skills in importation of graphics and use of animation in presentations.

attitude:
Willingness to continue developing PowerPoint skills through regular use. Willing to assist others and to seek advice on use of the program.

knowledge:
Knowledge of using Microsoft Power Point at an advanced level.


accessment:
Edits and publishes a document to the required standard.

compentency:
Uses publishing programs (eg Page Maker or Publisher) to produce extension material, newsletters etc.

behaviour:
Produces high quality material ready for publication using desktop publishing.

attitude:
Willingness to continue developing Publisher skills through regular use. Willing to assist others and to seek advice on use of the program.


accessment:
Produces a report at an acceptable level of a completed monitoring and evaluation exercise.

compentency:
Monitors and evaluates the outcomes of research programs.

behaviour:
Designs effective evaluation of research that includes purpose, focus, information collection plan, implementation plan, plan for organising and analysis of data, also reporting and applying results.

attitude:
Unwilling to let research continue without critical appraisal.

knowledge:
Understands the need for and ways of monitoring research.  Also recognises the importance of assessing outcomes of research before developing new studies.


topic:
NARI corporate plan for professional  staff

accessment:
Shares NARI's focus on smallholder farmers, especially women. Seeks to find answers to the most important problems faced by farmers working as part of a research team.

compentency:
Describes NARI mission statement accurately, clearly and appropriately.

behaviour:
Effort focused onto NARI's mandate which is to assist farming families.  Functions as part of a team to meet NARI's aims.   Familiar with the expectations of NARI in relation to assistants input to the project. Be familiar with the responsibility NARI takes towards stakeholders.

attitude:
Positive attitude to the project and people running the local project. Protective attitude to the project in the face of theft or threats of damage in times of local trouble.

knowledge:
Knows who they are responsible to. Knows what the expectations of the overall ancillary team are.  Know that there are a number of training /skill improvement requirements for them .


accessment:
Provides an excellent record of research activity and grower implications.

compentency:
Keeps a diary in which plans, unexpected events, decisions, actions, observations and feedback from stakeholders are clearly listed.

behaviour:
Keeps a diary in which plans, unexpected events, decisions, actions, observations and feedback from stakeholders are clearly listed.

knowledge:
Legibility, brevity and the ability to get the important information onto paper.


accessment:
Trial plans produced will be accurate and easily understood.

compentency:
Produces a clear trial plan that all staff can use without making mistakes. When research is conducted on farm, plans are clear and appropriate for the farmers, who receive copies of plans.

behaviour:
Produces a clear protocol for trials so that all staff can use them without making mistakes in terms of plot layout, orientation of plan to external features- e.g. mountains, fences, gates.

attitude:
Attention to detail and simplicity/clarity will make for more effective and error free research.

knowledge:
Know the elements required for a good trial plan- clarity, name, date, trial title- reference number, north arrow, key features- e.g. gate, fence, trees etc to allow orientation of plan. Knows that miss-numbering of plots is a cause of data errors.


accessment:
Passes a test to ensure calculation skills are 100%- open book test.

compentency:
Calculates accurately solid and liquid fertiliser/chemical application rates.

behaviour:
Calculates accurately, checking with others before applying.

attitude:
Careful to apply chemicals at the required rate in a safe manner.

knowledge:
Care taken during weighing and application will pay large dividends in terms of CV%.


accessment:
When applying chemicals uses appropriate safety equipment and applies in suitable weather conditions.

compentency:
Applies chemicals to crops and fringe areas as instructed so that crops, people and the general environment are not harmed by poor spraying techniques.

behaviour:
Checks equipment for leaks and normal performance. Selects and wears protection as required by (product labelling ) supervisor.

attitude:
Recognises that spraying agrochemicals has both benefits and hazards.

knowledge:
Understands the likely problems arising from inadequate  spraying technique.


accessment:
Handles chemical application to crops accurately and safely.

compentency:
Applies chemical in the right amount of water at the right rate.

behaviour:
Seeks out someone to check calculations.

knowledge:
Care taken during application will pay large dividends in terms of CV%.


accessment:
Responses in target plants indicate that chemicals were applied evenly and at the right rate.

behaviour:
Checks equipment for leaks and normal performance. Spray coverage at the rate shown by supervisor. Method used to minimise spray drift and application to non target plants and are

knowledge:
Understands the objective of each spraying job.


accessment:
Carries out sampling, preparation and interpretation of analysis adequately.

compentency:
Samples, dries and grinds samples for chemical analysis appropriately.

behaviour:
Undertakes appropriate sampling of soils, forage and other crop material, ensures that dried correctly (depending on the requirement) for chemical analysis.

attitude:
Careful attitude to sampling, labelling and storage of plant / soil materials.

knowledge:
Recognises that correct sampling techniques critical to be able to interpret chemical composition.  Understands the normal range of chemical composition of pasture plants, other crops and soils.


accessment:
Carries out handling and application of fertilizers in a competent manner.

compentency:
Recommends/Uses the appropriate fertiliser for a specific situation which may be required.  Be able to measure fertiliser as required for trial plot application. Be able to apply fertiliser as directed by a supervisor.

behaviour:
Able to correctly locate fertilisers among a typical mixed range.  Able to accurately weigh fertiliser samples. Is able to apply fertiliser evenly to pots, plots and larger areas. Able to record application of fertiliser using a simple recording system.

attitude:
Appreciates that small plot growing requires great care with the inputs. Appreciates that reporting a potential mixing, labelling or weighing error is far more desirable than hiding the event.

knowledge:
Understands the potential damage that occurs from poor storage and handling of fertiliser. Knows the range fertilizers available and understands in general terms the purpose of the fertilisers being applied. Understands that throwing away surplus fertiliser can have dramatic effects on soil variability.


accessment:
Field trials will be applied with sustainable agriculture in mind and be good examples for the client groups.

compentency:
Promotes the practices necessary to prevent fertility decline. Collects soil samples using appropriate sampling techniques.   Determines the most appropriate tests required and interprets results.

behaviour:
Familiar with soil conservation techniques and the importance of fallow management on sustainability of farming systems. Understanding of basic soil identification procedures, structure and drainage characteristics. Uses and understands soil analytical data.

attitude:
Willing to develop competency through private study and participation in field trips etc.

knowledge:
Understands the mechanisms leading to soil erosion and methods of minimising soil degradation. Recognises that soil conservation and soil fertility building is one of the key issues facing PNG agriculture. Can advise on fertiliser requirements based on soil analysis data and crop requirements (with guidance from Soils advisor).


accessment:
Shows ability to identify plant physiological constraints to crop growth and yield. Applies  this knowledge to research activities.

compentency:
Explains the photosynthesis process and predicts yields in different climatic environments. Understands the differences between C3 and C4 plants, CAM metabolism, photo respiration,  radiation response, temperature response, etc.

behaviour:
Looks to developing clear strategies for research endeavours, taking on board all the relevant plant physiology implications.   Develops an understanding of the photosynthesis process and predicting yields in different climatic environments.

attitude:
Has willingness to learn the basics of plant physiology as related to the local crop range in particular, recognising that without a good understanding of the processes within plants the research endeavours proposed may not be carried out effectively.

knowledge:
Will have an understanding of the principles involved in the detailed competencies (as outlined), and as well, be familiar with the phenological cycles for the crop range - in particular the influences on vegetative and flowering / fruiting phases of crop.


accessment:
Can develop a case study for all the relevant parameters in soil / water relationships affecting any relevant research project involved with.

compentency:
Develops an understanding of relationships between soil water and plant growth. In particular, understands the concepts of movement of water through the soil / plant air continuum, crop absorption of water, water flow in in the xylem and leaves, transpiration.

behaviour:
Is able to define the relationship between soil aeration, soil particle and bulk density, porosity, available water capacity etc. on plant growth , root elongation and distribution.

attitude:
Willing to develop competencies through background reading and private study.

knowledge:
Understands the basic concepts of plant / soil water relationships  and how to measure the various parameters.


accessment:
Can apply knowledge of plant water requirements to planning field trials for appropriate periods of the year or is able to effect appropriate irrigation practices.

compentency:
Develops expertise in recognising water stress symptoms and effects on crop productivity. Understands minimal root area wetting requirement, the water needs and minimal frequency of irrigation / rainfall for  individual crops.

behaviour:
Is familiar with specific water requirements for individual crops and can match resources (soil water holding capacity and rainfall patterns / irrigation capacity) to trial planning. Also willing to communicate expertise to the client group.

attitude:
Realizes that water available to crops (insufficient, sufficient and excessive) can have major effects on both crop growth and yield. Is able to take these factors into consideration when planning field experiments.

knowledge:
Has a broad understanding of water needs and productivity relationships for crops under study. Realizes that excessive water availability may result in too much vegetative growth or pathogen problems (eg kau kau) and conversely, inadequate moisture supply.


accessment:
Provides healthy plants both in field and in containers suitable for follow up trials.

compentency:
Successfully propagates and grows on required plants with suitable outcomes and economical use of resources. Designs potting mixtures and carries out nutritional programmes which combined with suitable containers and hygiene, provide sustained growth.

behaviour:
Assumes that what has to be done must be well done. Needs to avoid situations where plants fail because of propagation planning or lack of sustained management. Is conscious of cost and thus needs to avoid wastage through unsatisfactory potting mixtures.

attitude:
Understands that improper propagation and growing on operations will not sustain successful follow on trials.

knowledge:
Has a good knowledge of successful germination requirements for seeds (including suitable seed storage).  Good planning for disease free seedling potting mixtures and, growing on procedures  - suitable soil moisture / aeration regimes, nutrition and pest control.


accessment:
Can read and data record from standard meteorological equipment.

compentency:
Interprets climatic data to the extent of most parameters, - rainfall, temperature, humidity, evapotranspiration,  etc and takes readings from basic meteorological equipment.

behaviour:
Familiar with data sheets for climatic parameters and able to construct monthly and annual means .

attitude:
Willing to take part in data recording for climate when called upon and also assemble means etc over periods.

knowledge:
Have a substantial understanding of climatic parameters and how to measure and analyse them.  To be cognisant of the pattern of El Nino and El Nina effects and the long term implications of these events.


accessment:
Describes specific reasons for crop species distribution and limitations / success in the 5 agroecological zones of PNG.

compentency:
Completes analyses for specific locations relating to meteorological and altitude data.   Describes the expected/best cropping pattern.

behaviour:
Knows the distribution pattern of rainfall in the different regions of PNG.  Understands the factors, which influence plant growth and distribution of major crops in PNG (e.g. precipitation,. incident radiation, sunshine hours, wind / evapotranspiration.

knowledge:
Understands the interacting climatic factors which influence plant production and species and cultivar distribution. Can  for a single location  analyse the meteorological and altitude data and describe the expected cropping pattern.


accessment:
Shows good understanding of crop and weed species and weed control

compentency:
Identifies and botanically names local plants / trees, both for useful /  economic crops and weeds at various stages of growth. Can suggest the practical methods for weed control and is familiar with IPM development concepts.

behaviour:
Can identify and botanically name the main range of fruit, vegetable, nuts, spices, trees, weeds and pasture species in the surrounding areas.

attitude:
Willing to develop a reasonably comprehensive understanding of botanical identification for crops, trees and weeds.

knowledge:
Understands the basic methods of plant identification through botanical characteristics and, plant family associations. Has familiarity with the mechanisms for cultural, chemical and IPM control of weeds.


accessment:
Can identify the major disease and insect problems in local crops and devise strategies to deal with them.

compentency:
Identifies the major insects and diseases affecting the crop range within the research area. Is familiar with the mode of disease transmission and epidemiology. Applies cultural, IPM  and chemical solutions to specific situations.

behaviour:
Produces a clear strategy for control of pests, insects and diseases for the relevant crop range and is ever willing to solicit the best information from the specialists in the pest, disease and insect disciplines.

attitude:
Has curiosity for developing a good understanding of the life cycles of pests, diseases and troublesome insects. Willing to learn in particular, cultural and IPM strategies and to pass the information on to the client groups.

knowledge:
Has a basic knowledge of the identification, life cycles and epidemiology for the important pests, diseases and insects affecting crops within the local crop range. Is familiar with strategies to deal with the pest and disease range.


accessment:
Can describe the main agricultural systems in each region, the opportunities and limitations facing farmers.

compentency:
Knowledge of farming systems in the clients’ areas (5 agro ecological zones), includes community organisation, marketing, activities of other organisations and NGO’s. Able to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing local farming systems.

behaviour:
Visits farmers regularly with the intention of leaning about farming systems being practiced.  Familiar with local crop and livestock husbandry and production.

attitude:
Willingness to develop and maintain contact with NARI clients. Willing to develop broad knowledge of farming systems including economic data.

knowledge:
Understanding of local farming systems, the needs, constraints and opportunities.


topic:
Managing animals before, during & after transport

compentency:
Prepares animals for transportation. Provides special care required for animals during and immediately after transportation.

behaviour:
Able to prepare animals for transportation. Able to provide special care required for animals during and immediately after transportation.

attitude:
Willing to improve welfare with  planning and effort.

knowledge:
Understands typical problems animals face when being transported.


topic:
Drivers transport of seed or planting materials

compentency:
Able to demonstrate the skills needed to assist with maintaining stored seeds or other stored planting materials. Able to care for living planting materials in transit to new growing sites so that they have high survival rates when replanted..

behaviour:
Able to store seed as directed; dry, accurately labelled  and secure. Able to store dry tubers etc dry, accurately labelled  and secure. Able to care for living plant samples awaiting replanting or transportation to other sites.

attitude:
Treats any threat ( water, vermin, people thieves, pigs,)  to planting materials as  a serious threat to the project and therefore their own employment.

knowledge:
Appreciates that seriously wilted plants and overheated seeds die. Appreciates that fungicide treated tubers etc are a health hazard to the hungry thief.


topic:
Computer and printer maintenance and trouble shoot

accessment:
Regular maintenance program on computer and printers ensuring that they are in good operating condition.

compentency:
Uses CD Rom and floppy drive cleaning disks. Replaces inkjet and laser cartridges. Runs simple computer diagnostic tools such as scandisk. Ensures computers are surge protected at all times.

behaviour:
Can undertake simple maintenance, identify and fix minor problems with hardware and software.

attitude:
Preventive maintenance and care is always better than repair.

knowledge:
Knows the danger of going beyond skill level with expensive computer equipment.


accessment:
Uses touch typing for both letter, number and symbol.

compentency:
Touch types at least 20 words per minute (letters, numbers and major symbols) with acceptable 80% accuracy.   Uses some short-cut keys.

behaviour:
Touch types at least 20 words per minute (letters, numbers and major symbols) with acceptable 80% accuracy.   Uses some short-cut keys.

attitude:
Enthusiastic regarding improving touch typing skills. Avoids looking at keys while typing.

knowledge:
Knows the value of improving these basic skills. Knows how to use typing tutorials.


accessment:
Up-to-date virus protection present on computer.  Scans disks before copying files onto the hard drive.

compentency:
Be able to check floppy disks for viruses. Be able to scan a hard disk for viruses. Be able to download updates of virus checking software.

behaviour:
Scans foreign floppy disks and files downloaded from the internet for viruses. Priority to update anti- virus software regularly.

attitude:
A very cautious approach to the dangers of viruses, downloading games, adding software to computers that NARI has set up.

knowledge:
Understanding of how viruses damage computer systems and how this can be prevented.


topic:
Creating and managing files, backing up files

accessment:
Creates files and subdirectories effectively managing and backing up files.

compentency:
Follows the correct protocol to establish and alter passwords and establish new directories and sub-directories as required using appropriate software. Creates new files, stores data in appropriate sub-directories on hard drives and floppies and retrieves data. Back up files are updated weekly - stored on and off-site.

behaviour:
Establishes and alters passwords as necessary. Establishes new directories and sub-directories using appropriate software. Creates new files, stores data in appropriate sub-directories on hard drives and floppies and retrieves data. Back up files are updated weekly - stored on and off-site.

attitude:
Remembers the fire at UniTech that destroyed a whole building.

knowledge:
Knows how to establish and alter passwords; establish new directories and sub-directories, use appropriate software; create new files, store data in sub-directories on hard drives and floppies; retrieve data.   Recognises that there is no substitute for regular backing up of files.  Knows the danger of having all data in one building.


topic:
Initial use of word processors and spreadsheets

accessment:
Creates word and excel documents and saves them in designated subdirectory

compentency:
Produces, edits, saves in appropriately named folder. Prints word and excel documents.

behaviour:
Uses word to write reports and letters and uses Excel to store data.

attitude:
Confident in the use of word-processing and spread sheet programs.  Working to increase skills.

knowledge:
Knows how to use Word and Excel.  Can also use CD based tutorials to improve skills and use help facility to assist.


accessment:
E Mails and attachments are sent and received and managed appropriately.

compentency:
Sends, redirects, forwards and receives e-mail. Adds attachments, including pictures. Archives and retrieves email from archives as required. Finds and saves email attachments to specific files. Manages address book."

behaviour:
Uses e-mail to keep in touch with other colleagues. Refer statements of competency

attitude:
Recognises that e-mail allows scientists, friends and colleagues to keep in touch allowing more effective research outcomes. Recognises that there are times when standard mail will be better than e-mail. Use e-mail so that toll call phone charges are reduced.

knowledge:
Values being able to keep in contact with others. Aware that e-mail is a potential source of computer viruses.


accessment:
Demonstrated skills in producing high quality written work.

compentency:
Creates and uses templates, short-cut keys, auto correct functions, import pictures etc., Uses spell checker, document outline and change styles.

behaviour:
Regularly produces high quality written material free from mistakes.  Able to use Word’s online help to find answers to problems. Regularly helps other NARI staff develop further word processing skills.

attitude:
Willingness to continue developing word processing skills. Pride in producing well presented work.

knowledge:
Knows the benefits accruing from professional presentation of written material.


accessment:
Produces appropriate spreadsheets using the required computer skills.

compentency:
Creates spreadsheets and manages simple calculations.  Able to use spreadsheets to record, manipulate, analyse and graph data.

behaviour:
Improving skills by self-teaching and seeking advice.  Able to use spreadsheets online help to find answers to problems. Helps others in NARI.

attitude:
Willingness to continue developing spreadsheet skills through regular use. Happy to assist other staff with using the program.

knowledge:
Knowledge of using spreadsheets at advanced level. Appreciates how useful spreadsheets can be to research scientists.


accessment:
Can produce a simple database and accesses information as required.

compentency:
Uses appropriate relational databases to create simple databases.

behaviour:
Improving skills by self-teaching and seeking advice.  Able to use relational databases to manage information and solve problems.

attitude:
Willingness to continue developing Access skills through regular use. Willing to assist others and to seek advice on use of the program.

knowledge:
Understands how relational databases work.


compentency:
Able to design and develop databases with linked tables and queries and produce reports. Able to produce a front end on a database so that less competent users are able to enter data. Automates some processes eg maximise on open.

behaviour:
Is able to design and use advanced databases.

attitude:
Understands the importance of keeping the client in mind- Keeps it simple.

knowledge:
Knows advanced features of relational database design.


accessment:
Recognises the different formats of information resources organises them appropriately.

compentency:
Recognises  different types of information material and knows how they can be organised.

behaviour:
Recognises different types of information and able to organise them appropriately.

knowledge:
Recognises differences between different information materials.


accessment:
Can correctly and appropriately apply Agdex file numbers to information materials.

compentency:
Understands how Agdex is structured and how it is used.

behaviour:
Able to define the content of information materials and use Agdex to represent the content.

attitude:
Recognise the usefulness of Agdex as an organisational and retrieval tool.


compentency:
Defines the information being sought. Develops appropriate search logic. Uses keywords and synonyms effectively. Conducts manual and electronic searches for information.

behaviour:
Defines information inquiries, applies the appropriate searching methodology and carries out searches effectively and efficiently.

attitude:
Recognise that being able to carry out an effective information search contributes to credible research.

knowledge:
Knows how to carry out an information search.


accessment:
Competently accesses required information and selects only that which is relevant, appropriate and authorative.

compentency:
Identifies correctly appropriate information resources and their likely source. Evaluates information. Uses best, most appropriate procedures to acquire needed information.

behaviour:
Uses a range of information resources. Differentiates between authorative and speculative/incorrect information. Acquires needed materials efficiently.

attitude:
Values the work of other researchers, recognising that effective information management can ensure that valuable time and resources are not wasted.

knowledge:
Knows what information resources are available, where to access them and how to do so.


accessment:
Self and other staff can quickly access desired information.

compentency:
Be able to file paper resources in ways that allow rapid retrieval and assist others to find information. Be able to manage computer files effectively.

behaviour:
Develops good habits of managing paper files effectively and retrieves filed information. Stores files on computers in a logical manner so that is able to find files quickly.

attitude:
Will consider that time spent filing information properly is time well spent.

knowledge:
Understands filing system used by NARI research stations.


compentency:
Captures essential data to compose citations manually and electronically, recognising the different formats of materials being cited.

behaviour:
Consistently and confidently prepares citations.

attitude:
Recognises that citations allow others to carry out their own research and that therefore good citation management has to do with research credibility.


accessment:
Composes a subject or topical bibliography as an adjunct to or part of a knowledge gathering exercise.

compentency:
Arranges citations in an appropriate, attractive and useful way.

behaviour:
If appropriate, will prepare a bibliography on any subject or topic pertinent to a research question.

attitude:
Recognises the value of organising information resources in a structured way.


accessment:
Prepares effective literature reviews in support of a research proposal or academic thesis

compentency:
Able to present a review of available literature artfully, cogently and confidently.

behaviour:
Prepares a literature review as part of the research proposal development process.

attitude:
Recognises that an elegant and comprehensive literature review is a precursor to any research project.

knowledge:
Knows how to prepare a literature review.


accessment:
Researcher explains their role in the knowledge process for NARI and subsistence farming families.

compentency:
Justifies how his/her work contributes to increasing the knowledge base for NARI as a knowledge institution.

behaviour:
Looks for ways to contribute towards building NARI as a knowledge institution.

attitude:
Willing to share knowledge with others and work for a common objective.

knowledge:
Understands the difference between data, information and knowledge. Understands the concept of knowledge management at the institutional level.


accessment:
Researcher uses the NARI library catalogue to retrieve information.

compentency:
Uses the NARI library catalogue and is able to demonstrate to others how to use it.

behaviour:
Uses the NARI library catalogue as the primary source of information. Helps others learn.

attitude:
Willing to become proficient in the use of the NARI library catalogue. Sharing skills is crucial to NARI development.

knowledge:
Knows how to use the NARI library catalogue.


accessment:
Researcher contributes appropriate records to NARI library catalogue.

compentency:
Recognises all the elements of an item to be catalogued and places them in the correct place and in the correct format.

behaviour:
Takes a keen interest in making sure that the entries are correct and complete. Encourages team members to be active participators.

attitude:
Attention to accuracy and detail. Willingness to share resources and knowledge.

knowledge:
Can distinguish between the various bibliographic data elements and input them correctly into the NARI library catalogue.


accessment:
Appropriate and sufficient indexing terms used to define content of an information resource.

compentency:
Uses the correct indexing approach and selects indexing terms accordingly.

behaviour:
Consistency of approach and imagination used in selection of indexing terms.

attitude:
Recognises that good indexing helps others find what they are looking for.

knowledge:
Knows how to define content of an information resource and use appropriate indexing tools, specifically CAB Thesaurus.


accessment:
Surveys that have been designed and completed (including data entry, analysis and report writing) are appropriate for their intended use.

compentency:
Uses formal survey skills including clear objectives, problem definition, questionnaire design, identification of parent or target population, sample selection, data collection, data entry, analysis, interpretation of results and report writing. Anticipates how data will be processed and reported.

behaviour:
Designs appropriate stakeholder surveys as part of work responsibilities in assessing research needs and in evaluating results. Checks survey questions with colleagues etc.

attitude:
Willingness to design data collection methods for use at the smallholder level and to use these data in setting NARI priorities.

knowledge:
Ability to apply the research method in survey research and to collect and analyse data using a survey analysis software package. Understands features of alternate sampling methods-eg simple random, stratified, systematic, cluster.


topic:
Calculations for fertiliser and chemical rates.

accessment:
Demonstrates accurate calculations of fertiliser and chemical rates.

compentency:
Calculates accurately the amounts  of fertiliser or other chemicals to apply per plot or pot from basic information.

behaviour:
Calculate rates of fertiliser per plot or per pot from amounts of element required. Checks calculations by making use of the check tables in manual. Helps others, learns from others.

attitude:
Careful approach to calculating rates of fertiliser applications.

knowledge:
Able to make calculations of fertiliser rates required and will have an intuitive grasp of what looks right and what looks wrong.


accessment:
Crops grow evenly following fertiliser application. Able to teach others to apply fertiliser evenly.

attitude:
Desires accuracy and evenness so that trial data is the best possible.

knowledge:
Knows the impact of uneven fertiliser applications. Knows the steps to take to ensure even application.


topic:
Applying fertiliser and chemicals by machine

accessment:
When using machinery to apply fertiliser or chemicals safety and accuracy are appropriate.

compentency:
Applies chemicals evenly using machinery.

behaviour:
Applies chemicals evenly, and ceases application when wind, rain etc increase danger of ineffective or unwise application.

knowledge:
Knows the risk factors in using machinery to apply chemicals or fertiliser.


accessment:
When tested is able to measure lengths, weights and volumes accurately, recording same. Able to teach others.

compentency:
Measures length, weight and volumes accurately. Applies checks to ensure that data is  an accurate measure and entered in recording sheets accurately.

behaviour:
Competently measures using a range of measuring devices.

attitude:
Careful in recording and backing up of data. Aware that mistakes do happen when recording and transcribing data and ensures that when data is transcribed checks are made on accuracy.

knowledge:
Accuracy and a sensible level of precision is important. Know how to round off sensibly. Able to recognise and correct data entry mistakes.


accessment:
When required measures plots to acceptable accuracy.

compentency:
Be able to measure paddock areas accurately.

behaviour:
Be able to measure paddock areas accurately.

attitude:
Important that area of a plot be calculated relatively accurately.

knowledge:
Knows how to calculate the area of plots even when not symmetrical.


accessment:
Trial plan is accurate and clear record of design, layout and location.

compentency:
Draws the trial plan accurately with appropriate orientation and location, blocks, replicates, treatment codes.

behaviour:
Enables  an accurate record of the trial layout and treatments location  such as entire experiment layout is easily understood by all other staff.

attitude:
Ensures that the trial plan is accurate in every detail.

knowledge:
Realizes that without accurate trial plans the execution of the experiment may well be unsatisfactory.


accessment:
Plots are square and aligned properly in field trials- able to teach others.

compentency:
Lays out plots that are square and in line with other plots. Accurately follows the trial plan.

behaviour:
Uses string lines and tape measures and sighting poles to achieve 90 deg angles in plots. Helps others learn these skills.

attitude:
A careful approach at the start of a trial helps to set the tone for quality research.

knowledge:
Can align plots so they are square and correct size.


accessment:
Experiments designed by researcher  have appropriate guard rows.

compentency:
Uses guard rows effectively in trial designs.

behaviour:
When laying out a field trial includes appropriate guard rows. Ensures others understand where guard and plot areas are.

attitude:
Inclusive attitude to field research.  Willing to explain the role of guard row in trial management to field workers.

knowledge:
Understand the importance of guard rows in trial management.


accessment:
Takes care of animals with careful handling and management.

compentency:
Handles and weighs animals appropriately.

behaviour:
Handles small and larger animals with minimal trauma both to animal and handler.

attitude:
Prepared to monitor and react to changing circumstances during an experiment.

knowledge:
Be able to set up trial conditions that lead to a good environment for optimum animal performance.


accessment:
Reliable calculations of growth and feed intake.

compentency:
Calculates growth rates, feed intakes and composition and appropriate ratios.

attitude:
Seeks advice when necessary. Checks calculated results especially when unexpected.

knowledge:
Knows how to calculate the variables associated with animal research and their meaning and application.


accessment:
Experimental animals are appropriate in terms of liveweight and health being representative of the population under study.

compentency:
Chooses appropriate animals for particular research program.

behaviour:
Ranks a group of animals, choosing those most suitable for a trial, excluding those that would obviously increase CV%.  Sets up trials so that minimises chances of mistakes in recording.

attitude:
Taking good care of animals is an animal rights issue and also will lead to better research results.

knowledge:
Understands that selection of animals for a trial is very important if the results are going to have meaning. Also recognises that early intervention is important when problems develop.  Understands that an acclimatisation period is needed after animals are allocated to treatment before measurements can be made.


accessment:
Experimental protocols demonstrate appropriate skills in planning and implementing of research both on station and on-farm.  Works as part of a team as demonstrated by work program.   Records of experimental work are complete and accurate.

compentency:
Contributes to design and conduct of livestock research. Keeps an accurate record of all events during research.

behaviour:
Participates in a team to develop experimental protocols.  Can measure, record and store data accurately in a Excel.   Able to deal with the logistics of running an experiment.  Keeps a diary of study. Uses training manual to assist with skill development.

attitude:
Willing to learn from others in the team.   Relies on Journaling to maintain skill and attitude development.

knowledge:
Understands the methodology used in animal studies, especially design, accuracy and validity of measurements made and conclusions drawn.    Understanding past research outputs also critical for developing a sound research program. Aware of the need to plan.


accessment:
Weighs animals in research trials with appropriate levels of precision and accuracy.

compentency:
Uses a variety of techniques to measure liveweight with acceptable precision.

behaviour:
Uses clock-face scales to weigh and record liveweight with acceptable precision.  Uses measuring tapes and correlations for estimating liveweight in pigs and other species.

attitude:
Care in weighing and recording of liveweight important for interpretation of data.

knowledge:
Understands that animals should be weighed before being fed and measuring instruments need to be calibrated.  Also, that recording errors can occur and that frequent checks should be made of the veracity of data.


accessment:
Demonstrated skills in application of animal management, breeding, nutrition and economics skills to animal production problems.

compentency:
Analyses animal enterprises, reports on financial issues in ways that help farmers understand the profit and loss- including non financial parameters.

behaviour:
Collects basic production parameters, identifies problems and draw up a gross margin for a simple livestock enterprise (e.g. broiler chicken production). Extends information to farmers gained from livestock research to farmers.

attitude:
Happy to work both on the station and on farm to solve livestock problems.

knowledge:
Advanced understanding of small-holder animal production and the need for extension of research findings. Able to delve into the local and international literature to gain background information on opportunities to improve animal production.


accessment:
Animals cared for are appropriately housed, protected from temperature extremes, and disease.

compentency:
Houses animals well and discusses good and bad housing.

behaviour:
Recognises when the standards required for successful management of the species involved are not being met. Able to carry out cleaning and other maintenance tasks required for successful management of the species.

attitude:
Identifies with animals under care protecting from extremes of climate, from disease and unhygienic conditions.

knowledge:
Knows the likely effects on the animals when housing is not maintained to the set standards.


accessment:
Animals in trials managed by researcher are clearly marked and recorded.

compentency:
Ensures livestock used in trials are clearly identified to avoid confusion.

behaviour:
Uses a range (tags, brands, tattoo, electronic chips, ear notching) of livestock identification techniques as needed.  Also uses backup identification scheme.

attitude:
Recognises that the identity of animals is easily confused and uses back up systems to identify animals.

knowledge:
Understands the various techniques for identification of livestock.  Ensures that possible confusion between animals in trials are avoided with backup systems (e.g.. Record colour, sex etc.).


accessment:
Animals managed by researcher are healthy and productive.

compentency:
Manages animals so that they are healthy and productive.

behaviour:
Takes good care of a range of livestock species.  Teaches farmers basic husbandry and management skills.

attitude:
Willing to take hands on approach to developing skills in looking after animals.  Willing to learn from farmers but not to accept everything on face value.

knowledge:
Basic understanding of small-holder animal production and the application of research findings to improving livestock production for small-holders.


accessment:
Animals being handled are not unduly stressed.  Researcher handles animals quietly and confidently.

compentency:
Handles and manages cattle and other large animals appropriately.

behaviour:
Moves around  large animals without undue fear, but with safe handling practices. Assesses mood of cattle, moving stock effectively.Ensures team members are safe and learning new skills.

attitude:
Willing to learn skills in handling cattle from farmers.

knowledge:
Understands how to handle cattle in a safe manner for drafting, drenching and weighing and knows how to undertake basic husbandry procedures (branding, drenching).


accessment:
Animals are not unduly stressed when being handled.  Animals prone to stress (e.g. late pregnant does) are not handled unless absolutely necessary. Ensures team members are learning new skills in animal handling.

compentency:
Handles livestock with care and applies treatments humanely.

behaviour:
Able to move, catch, restrain, and apply treatments as required for normal husbandry.

attitude:
SAFETY FIRST and a humane attitude to animal welfare.

knowledge:
Understand what the animal sees hears and smells. Knows the typical behaviour of animals at various stages of their life cycle.


accessment:
Survival rates of mother and offspring consistent with high levels of management and nutrition.

compentency:
Recognises pregnancy, manages animals well and assists appropriately at delivery of species managed by researcher.

behaviour:
Able to recognise normal signs of pregnancy. Able to deliver appropriate care for pregnant females (especially feed and housing).  Able to provide the appropriate level of intervention at parturition.

attitude:
Willing to go the extra mile to ensure high rates of survival in mothers and their young.

knowledge:
Understands the basic physiology of pregnancy.  Understands the requirements of care for pregnant females. Understands normal behaviour well enough to judge when assistance at birth is required.


accessment:
Reproductive rates are consistent with good levels of management and nutrition.

compentency:
Prepares males and females for mating. Explains the need for timely reproduction. Identifies normal and abnormal mating behaviours for animal species managed by researcher.

behaviour:
Able to prepare males and females for mating. Able to identify normal and abnormal mating behaviours.

attitude:
Commercial orientation to ensuring maximum reproductive efficiency.

knowledge:
Understands the basics of reproduction for the species involved (puberty,  mating, gestation.).


accessment:
Survival, health status and growth of livestock are consistent with high levels of management and adequate nutrition.

compentency:
Rears livestock with high levels of care in terms of nutrition, shelter and protection from disease, theft and injury.

behaviour:
Able to demonstrate the levels of feeding required for successful lactation. Able to carry out husbandry tasks needed for young stock. (parasite control, sexing, identification).  Able to demonstrate feed and care requirement for weaners.

attitude:
Special attention given to young animals to ensure they reach their full potential.

knowledge:
Understands the feeding and protection requirements for lactating mother and young stock. Understands the need for the planned animal husbandry tasks.


accessment:
Livestock cared for are well fed and growing within normal levels for conditions.

compentency:
Provides appropriate feeds for particular species and physiological requirements.

behaviour:
Feeds correct rations adjusted to species and physiological state (growth, pregnancy and lactation).

attitude:
Commercial orientation to ensuring animals are well nourished and reach full potential.

knowledge:
Understand basic issues relating to feed quality (Protein, energy, digestibility, spoilage factors).


accessment:
Pen fed animals respond to a particular treatment in a uniform manner.  Replicate groups also respond in a similar and explicable manner.

compentency:
Manages pen trials to minimise competition for feed and space.

behaviour:
Provides feed for penned animals so that intake is as uniform as possible over a group of animals in a cage.    Minimises effects of competition between animals on intake.

knowledge:
Know the difference between intake and apparent intake.  Aware of problems that arise when animals are fed below ad-lib or on diets that have varying palatability.


accessment:
Collects representative samples of feed being consumed by animals and measures digestibility using either in vitro or in vivo techniques depending on requirement.

compentency:
Where required by the research project, measures digestibility of feed.

behaviour:
Be able to estimate digestibility of grazed herbage by taking hand plucked and oesophageal fistula samples.

attitude:
Recognises the limitations of estimating forage digestibility.

knowledge:
Understands how to sample pastures so that representative of the diet consumed.  Understands the various techniques (in vitro and in vivo) for measuring pasture digestibility.


accessment:
Applies recognised techniques to estimate feed intake with a level of accuracy appropriate to need.

compentency:
Assess feed intake in grazing animals using standard techniques as required by the trial design.

behaviour:
Uses various techniques such as metabolism cage studies, faecal markers to estimate forage intake of grazing animals.

attitude:
Uses various estimates of pasture intake to get a best guess value.

knowledge:
Aware as to the difficulty and knows the techniques that can be used to estimate feed intake .  Also aware of likely errors in estimates.


accessment:
Notices sick animals and takes appropriate action in terms of reporting, isolation and treatment (first aid, disinfectants, anthelmintics, antibiotics, insecticides).

compentency:
Distinguishes between healthy and sick animals and takes appropriate action.  Understands how diseases spread and the importance of isolating animals with infectious diseases and isolating introduced animals.

behaviour:
Monitors the condition and health of livestock under care.  Reports any problems to supervisor. Isolates and treats animals affected with common ailments.

attitude:
Takes complete responsibility for the welfare of animals in care. Willing to respond quickly to injury and disease.

knowledge:
Understanding of the basic husbandry of livestock and their care requirements.  Understands what medication is appropriate for common ailments.


accessment:
Replaces animals lost from an experiment with similar so that data from study can still be analysed.

compentency:
Ensures spare animals are available as replacements for animals that are either lost from the trial or become ill or injured.

behaviour:
Manages spare animals so that replacements can be made during the life of a trial.

attitude:
Prepared for inevitable losses of experimental animals during trials.

knowledge:
Understands that groups of experimental animals need to be kept even in number and size if meaningful results are to be achieved.


accessment:
Repeatable estimates of pasture growth rates with accuracy, which is appropriate to the situation.

compentency:
Estimates pasture production and growth rates.

attitude:
Care needed to ensure accurate estimates.  Need to inspect exclusion cages regularly to ensure in place.

knowledge:
Aware of the effects that placing an exclusion cage over a site can have on microclimate and growth.


accessment:
Budgets effectively pasture production and animal requirements so that protocol is not compromised.

compentency:
Calculates stocking rates and budgets feed so that feed and animal numbers balance appropriately. i.e. pasture is not over or under-grazed and animals grow at acceptable rates.

behaviour:
Determines the amount of crop or pasture required for a complete trial.

attitude:
Plan ahead or studies will not be completed.

knowledge:
Able to estimate likely intakes, feed wastage, growth rates of forage so that forage feeding trials can be planned.


accessment:
Animals are handled so that they are not unduly stressed.

compentency:
Prepares animals appropriately for sale or slaughter.

behaviour:
Prepares animals appropriately for sale or slaughter.

knowledge:
Understands the reasons why various procedures are carried out.


topic:
Livestock slaughter and dressing of carcasses

accessment:
Observation of slaughter process confirms appropriate animal handling and slaughter techniques are used to minimise stress.  Carcases are clean and keeping quality of meat indicates largely free of bacterial contamination

compentency:
Slaughters animals humanely and dresses carcasses to a high standard of cleanliness.

behaviour:
Able to slaughter animals humanely and dress carcasses to a high standard of cleanliness.

attitude:
Careful that animals are killed under stress free conditions and that equipment, surfaces and hands are clean.

knowledge:
Understands the factors which affect meat quality.


accessment:
Repeatable estimates of pasture dry matter with accuracy which is appropriate to the situation.

compentency:
Measures pasture dry matters using the most appropriate technique.

behaviour:
Measures dry matter of pasture, understanding strengths and weaknesses of various techniques.

attitude:
Willing to calibrate estimates of yield using cutting techniques regularly.

knowledge:
Understands the complexity and discipline involved in estimating pasture DM yield under a variety of situations and using a variety of techniques.


accessment:
Repeatable estimates of pasture composition with accuracy which is appropriate to the situation.

compentency:
Estimates botanical composition of pastures, using appropriate sampling techniques.

behaviour:
Estimates botanical composition of pastures, using appropriate sampling strategies.

attitude:
Willing to calibrate estimates of composition and yield regularly.


accessment:
Arranges and establishes trials the grow well.

compentency:
Reads and understands trial plans. Able to assist planting the range of crop types grown- includes seeds, tubers, other live material. Able to accurately follow  planting plan instructions (depths, spacings, lack of spills, cross contamination).

behaviour:
Able to assist with planting the full range of plants grown on station. Able to accurately follow the planting plan instructions of depth, spacing, numbers per row. Is able to work in an accurate, clean and tidy manner that reduces the risk of mistakes during planting.

attitude:
Conscious that mistakes at planting are very serious costs and a risk to the project. Appreciates that the researcher's plan must be followed.

knowledge:
Understand that research will regularly use techniques that are not the same as the techniques known to the local assistant. Understands the purpose of buffer areas and guard rows.


accessment:
Anticipates weed problems and manages control of same. Can identify common weeds in the area.

compentency:
Recognise all significant local weeds.  Is able to use agreed techniques to deal with target weeds.

behaviour:
Able to weed without destroying the crop. Able to identify particular weeds at the cotyledon stage.

attitude:
Aims to reduce the seeding of weeds in research fields through appropriate fallow management.

knowledge:
Knows the way in which weed are best controlled- through effective fallows, making use of legumes (including trees) that shade out weeds.


accessment:
Manages all trial operations satisfactorily and can ensure staff follow directions exactly.

compentency:
Able to carry out all necessary crop management tasks for named crops. (Plant support, earth work, pruning and training, watering, side dressing, mulching). Not spraying.

behaviour:
Able to carry out all necessary crop management tasks for named crops. (plant support, earth work, pruning and training, watering, side dressing,  mulching).  Not spraying.

attitude:
Value the opportunity to learn skills that can be passed on to family that could add yield and value to crops grown by the family.

knowledge:
Understand the reasons why each activity is carried out.  (Important to be able to differentiate experimental practise from farmer best practise.


accessment:
Ensures that there is sufficient  prior study of the crop and soil to preclude  possibility of nutrient deficiencies.

compentency:
Understands  nutrient analysis of soils and potting mixtures and the ion antagonisms  potential. Recognises symptoms of major and micro nutrient deficiencies for the target crop range and applies adequate remedial measures.

behaviour:
Able to comprehensively anticipate nutritional disorders through a comprehensive search of available information for the crop and soils relevant to the trial site / container medium.

attitude:
Be willing to leave no stone unturned in pursuit of adequate information to enable the least possible occurrence of nutrient deficiencies in the trial .

knowledge:
Has a wide base of knowledge in interpreting soil analysis data and able to anticipate related potential nutrient deficiencies. Has capacity to recognise and remedy nutrient deficiencies as soon as they occur.


compentency:
Able to calculate water requirements for irrigation of field plots.

behaviour:
Calculates the number of litres of water needed to water a plot of x m2 given area with x mm of water and applies water evenly to plots.

attitude:
Care in applying water will pay dividends later in terms of variability- CV%.

knowledge:
Understands the importance of correct irrigation technique to success of an experiment.


accessment:
Shows capacity for efficient and dedicated harvest procedures.

compentency:
Harvests experimental crop areas in the most efficient manner and with best effect for meaningful  trial data analysis.   Performs harvest conscious of appropriate maturity indices and, sequential sampling when necessary.

behaviour:
Able to maintain careful and accurate harvesting skills for small and larger crop areas.

attitude:
Conscious that the harvest requires full energy and dedication to get it right. Realises that  weighing equipment and other measuring devices must be accurately calibrated.

knowledge:
Aware that small amounts of (non plot) additional harvest or crop left behind in plots can spoil even what by eye may seem obvious results. Knows why it is important to follow blocking when harvesting trials. Must have ability to be able to calibrate measuring equipment


topic:
Plant diseases- identification and reporting

accessment:
The experiment / observation is fully and competently reported in relation to plant diseases.

compentency:
Has knowledge of and can recognise and report typical damage from  significant diseases on crops within the local crop range.

behaviour:
Recognises  local range of plant diseases. Accurately reports changes in the level of disease effects on crops.    Able to carry out any non chemical activity to minimise crop damage from named crop diseases.

attitude:
If I report my observations I will learn valuable skills.

knowledge:
Understands the basics of the life cycle of main local plant diseases and the purpose of strategies being adopted to minimise their effect on local crops. Knows particular diseases that have quarantine/movement rules applying.


accessment:
Plant pathology research leads to reduced plant disease problems for stakeholders.

compentency:
Plant diseases researched in ways that lead to positive outcomes for stakeholders.

behaviour:
Does plant pathological research from a systems approach, using minimal high cost or dangerous chemicals.

attitude:
Seeks advice and input from stakeholders and other researchers.

knowledge:
Has good theoretical background in plant pathology.


accessment:
The experiment / observation is adequately monitored and reported for insect damage

compentency:
Has knowledge of and can recognise and report typical damage from significant pests and insects within the local crop range.

behaviour:
Recognises local range of pests and insects. Accurately reports changes in the level of pests and  insects effects on crops. Willing to apply management strategies to minimise crop damage.

attitude:
Sound knowledge of pests and insects will  be very relevant to the trial conclusions and subsequent information for growers.

knowledge:
Understands the basics of the life cycles and feeding patterns of local pests and insects and to  manage strategies (particularly non chemical solutions) for avoidance of economic damage.


accessment:
Entomological research leads to reduced insect problems for stakeholders.

compentency:
Insect populations are identified and researched in ways that lead to positive outcomes for stakeholders.

behaviour:
Does entomological research from a systems approach, using minimal high cost or dangerous chemicals.

knowledge:
Has good theoretical background in entomology, understanding IPM and use of bio-control agents.


topic:
Soil  sampling and associated calculations

compentency:
Able to take soil samples in the field, subsample and prepare for laboratory analysis.

behaviour:
Takes soil samples in the field to appropriate depth, sub-samples effectively and prepare samples for lab analysis.

attitude:
Realises the importance of careful sampling to give accurate results.

knowledge:
Understands the technique of soil sampling and the importance of collecting a representative sample of the site.


accessment:
The trial progresses with excellent management.

compentency:
Be able to manage soil moisture measurements and watering in pot experiments.

behaviour:
Calculates soil moisture content using appropriate sampling and drying techniques.  Calculates amount of water to apply in pot experiments to bring soil to within e.g.. 90% of field capacity.

knowledge:
Know how to calculate soil moistures accurately- especially how to handle tins and lids in weighing wet and oven dry soils.


accessment:
Manages the retention of plant / seed material for future trials

compentency:
Able to demonstrate the skills needed to assist with maintaining stored seeds or other stored planting materials.

behaviour:
Able to store seed as directed; dry, accurately labelled  and secure. Able to store dry tubers etc dry, accurately labelled and secure. Able to care for living plant samples awaiting replanting or transportation to other sites.

attitude:
Treats any threat ( water, vermin, people thieves, pigs,)  to planting materials as  a serious threat to the project and therefore their own successful research.

knowledge:
Be able to identify the range of crop seeds within the research area and understand the factors toward maintaining stored planting material for the maximum term possible.


accessment:
Collect, conserve and manage genetic diversity in a sustainable manner.

compentency:
Will collect, conserve and maintain germplasm diversity in field collections, under in - vitro storage and in - situ habitats (on farm) in collaboration with resource owners.

behaviour:
Conserve and maintain germplasm diversity in collections to safeguard against genetic erosion, and for benefits of future generations and for research purposes.

attitude:
Values natural resources which must be conserved and taken care of for future benefits to the communities and for food security.

knowledge:
Understands the costs and  difficulties associated with collecting, characterising, maintaining and evaluating germplasm material.


accessment:
Can describe,  evaluate and assess valuable germplasm diversity.

compentency:
Characterizes germplasm morphologically and through molecular identification ability, be able to evaluate diversity.

behaviour:
Willing to characterize and evaluate germplasm to enable selection for utilization in plant improvement programmes and useful for village grower production.

attitude:
PNG biodiversity is a heritage that this generation holds for future generations.

knowledge:
Understands and appreciates the importance of germplasm diversity and it's contribution to food security for the nation.


accessment:
Formally documents germplasm information in a database  system and makes available germplasm  and information for researchers and farmers.

compentency:
Documents germplasm information in spreadsheet or database programme appropriately. Selects suitable germplasm for commercial / home production purposes.

behaviour:
Willing to take stock and make an inventory  of the existing genetic diversity in food crop resources.

attitude:
Recognises the importance of maintaining good information in a data base system, including the countries' valuable resources. Has interest in using promising germplasm for improving food crop production.

knowledge:
Understands and has the ability to use Excel spreadsheet or Access database programmes for gene pool programme documentation and rescuing information.


accessment:
Can arrange light, temperature and humidity for conduct of pot experiments

compentency:
Implements control of  temperature, light and humidity in  under cover environments.

behaviour:
Be able to understand and manage humidity, temperature  and light so that plants  perform optimally within under cover environments.

attitude:
Willing to monitor plants under cover and make adjustments so that temperatures and light etc are appropriate.

knowledge:
Understands that high temperatures must be avoided and that light intensity and humidity must be within an appropriate range if plants are to thrive in a shade or glass house.


topic:
Pot experiments - soil nutrient considerations

accessment:
Most appropriate pot experiments are established to provide information.

compentency:
Establishes trials involving pot experiments where appropriate. Understands the methodology for nutrient omission trials and determining  limiting major and micronutrients.

behaviour:
Uses pot experiments when appropriate as part of a soils / crop nutrition research program.  Interprets results of pot experiments sensibly.

attitude:
Willing to entertain using a pot experiment to answer problems.

knowledge:
Be able to describe situations where a pot experiment is the best starting point for a research program. Can establish a pot experiment and interpret results.


accessment:
The pot experiment is not compromised by poor water management.

compentency:
Manages water requirements for a pot experiment.

behaviour:
Maintains pots with the right amount of water for optimum growth without drought stress or water logging occurring.

attitude:
Careful to measure water requirements of pots in experiments rather than guess.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of sound water management on plant growth and health in pot experiments.


accessment:
Able to formulate low cost potting mixtures using local materials.

compentency:
Understands development of low cost potting mixtures for general nursery use for the required crop range. Implements a fertilizing programme for potting mixtures enabling maximum sustained crop growth.

behaviour:
For general nursery and vegetable seedling use, as well  specific activities (eg growing on tissue cultured plants) has capacity to adapt local materials to provide good growing conditions for plants.

attitude:
Thinks substantially  and effectively about parameters for good plant growth whilst utilizing local low cost potting medium resources.

knowledge:
Has suitable knowledge regarding effective combinations of soil / sand / organic additives in combination to produce good potting mediums but at lowest cost consistent with good plant growth characteristics.


accessment:
Manages container grown plants in the most effective manner.

compentency:
Proceeds to manage container grown plants with due care as to size of container for plant size, drainage characteristics, potting on stages, fertilizing programme, hygiene and pest and disease control etc.

behaviour:
Formulates a programme for plant growth and care which takes into consideration all the necessary steps in the process but with due consideration of cost effectiveness.

attitude:
At every step in the growing process for plants, looks to anticipate factors which might lead to best growth and, to react positively and quickly to any threats.

knowledge:
Has a broad but comprehensive understanding of all the factors in nursery practice necessary to achieve excellent plant growth.


accessment:
Agroforestry experiments designed provide useful information for NARI stakeholders, increasing the sustainability and biodiversity of farming systems.

compentency:
Designs, measures and analyses experiments both on farm and on-station relating to agroforestry

behaviour:
Works with NARI stakeholders in developing farming systems that work with trees, animals and crops.

attitude:
Recognises that research in agroforestry is complex and seeks advice from biometrician and others.

knowledge:
Knows appropriate designs to use for agroforestry research.


compentency:
Establishes tree seedlings and manages young trees so that quality planting material is available for later research.

behaviour:
Be able to establish tree seedlings and manage so that quality planting material is available for later trials.

attitude:
Recognises that care is required in the nursery if suitable seedlings are to be available for experimentation.

knowledge:
Knows how to establish seedling in a nursery (seed scarification / germination tests) and the importance of providing appropriate media for growth, correct watering schedule and disease and pest control.


accessment:
Competently designs a trial having a good understanding of the potential trends for responses to treatments. Seeks advice appropriately.

compentency:
Develops an understanding of the broad area of response (nutrient, water relations, cultivar characteristics etc .) likely in the trial so that treatments applied will be well within the effective response parameters. Uses appropriate materials and sites.

behaviour:
Knows that one should not start a trial 'cold' - in that the crop and the site (soil etc) should be adequately researched (previous literature review and local experience etc) prior to design completion.

attitude:
Recognises that trials are expensive (particularly if they have to be repeated to achieve the appropriate outcome) and that best results come from a prepared anticipation of the responses to treatments.

knowledge:
Understands the limitations to available knowledge for crop responses in certain situations despite adequate literature reviews and local knowledge accumulation. Being willing to conduct some low cost preliminary observations  if there is uncertainty.


accessment:
Established trials have appropriate designs.

compentency:
Sets clear objectives, proposes appropriate trial designs for the testing of various hypotheses appropriate to the researchers position.

behaviour:
With others constructs appropriate designs for trials showing an understanding of normal crop/animal coefficient of variation.  Sets up skeleton analysis to assess degrees of freedom for error terms.

attitude:
Be critical of trial design when developing a proposal. Be willing to ask for expert biometrical assistance.

knowledge:
Recognises the importance of getting the design right before starting a trial. Knows strengths and weaknesses in split plot, Latin square etc designs, use of guard rows.


accessment:
When presenting research results interactions and main effects are described adequately and appropriately.

compentency:
Understands factorial designs, in built replication and describes interactions.

behaviour:
If appropriate, will use factorial designs in establishing experiments. Analysis method identified and trialed with dummy data before undertaking an experiment.

attitude:
Willing to consult with peer or biometrician on statistical analysis.  Keen to monitor and analyse data as it is collected.

knowledge:
Understands the key reasons for using a factorial design in an experiment and able to interpret outputs from analysis.


accessment:
Experiments established by the researcher will be blocked appropriately, if required.

compentency:
Understands blocking and replication, and blocks appropriately. Harvests appropriately- by blocks.

behaviour:
Thinks carefully and acts to block in ways that increase precision and reduce experimental error.

attitude:
Seeks advice from biometrician as appropriate.

knowledge:
Understands blocking and replication in experiments.


accessment:
Replication in experiments is appropriate.

compentency:
Uses the right amount of replication to achieve desired level of precision within normal constraints of budget, experimental material etc.

attitude:
Learns from the past and uses biometricians effectively in determining the amount of replication needed.

knowledge:
Makes use of previous experiments and estimates of variance to determine appropriate replication.


accessment:
Plot sizes are appropriate for the crop (or animals) and the harvests or measurements to be made during the experiment.

behaviour:
Plots are an appropriate size for the experiment.

knowledge:
Understands the experimental material and process so that plot size chosen is appropriate.


accessment:
Blocks / replicates have sufficient trees with even growth and yield.

compentency:
Establishes appropriate trials involving large tree crops. Understands benefits of clones and even, healthy nursery stock.

behaviour:
Establishes tree crop studies using appropriate plot size which accounts for likely soil variation across experimental site.

attitude:
Willing to take time during the design phase of a study to ensure allowances made for site variability.

knowledge:
Understanding of how conditions may vary across sites and how experimental designs can be adjusted to minimise impact of variability.


accessment:
The data chosen for recording is appropriate for the trial outcome.

compentency:
Assesses competently which data needs to be recorded for the best conclusions in the analysis of the trial. Ensures that the data can be measured accurately. Samples are appropriate.

behaviour:
Ensures that data chosen for recording is neither excessive nor insufficient for the final analysis.

attitude:
Takes extreme care in defining which data is appropriate for recording.

knowledge:
Understands the implications for decision on what data is important for the final analysis and does not collect data which is irrelevant.


accessment:
Others researchers could pick up the work of this person at any stage, understanding how, when and what has been done. Data screening is done soon after collection, using various techniques.

compentency:
Reliably measures plant/animal etc variables and records data appropriately for spreadsheet and biometrical analysis. Notes any irregularities in field recording sheets to assist later analysis, interpretation.

behaviour:
Ensures that all data requirements are achievable and the equipment necessary to gather data is available and appropriate. Uses data recording sheets. Checks the accuracy of any recording or transcription process. Checks calibration of measuring equipment

knowledge:
Understands the importance of collecting data, which is accurate and appropriate. Knows how to use specific recording equipment appropriate to the task- eg data loggers.


accessment:
Data is checked thoroughly and effectively. Regularly involved others in data checking process.

compentency:
Enters data as soon as possible after collection, uses computer to cross check, calculates means.

behaviour:
Checks data soon after collection so if need by can go back to field and remeasure/check.

attitude:
Computers and output are not infallible.


accessment:
Screens data sheets provided and finds all errors.

behaviour:
Sceptical of data and uses cross checking technique to verify quality of data. Involves others, helps others.

attitude:
Has a healthy scepticism of data- even when printed from an impressive printer.  Willing to cross check data.

knowledge:
Know ways of screening data to highlight errors.


accessment:
Data presented to boss will have been checked for errors in computer based calculations.

compentency:
Evaluates computer output to ensure that means are calculated correctly.

behaviour:
Assesses computer derived data, using manual calculations, to ensure that errors have not been made in calculations. Involves others - learning from and teaching team members.

attitude:
Has a healthy scepticism of data and willing to cross check data.

knowledge:
Knows the normal range of values expected from a trial.  Able to undertake manual calculations to check that data used in calculations are free of error.


accessment:
Develops expertise to deal with missing data.

compentency:
Manages data analysis appropriately even where some values are missing.

behaviour:
Be able to reduce the problems of missing data by managing trials and information in a competent manner.

attitude:
Designs trials with the expectation that some plots will be lost.

knowledge:
Be able to cope with missing plots in a way that helps to maximise usefulness of a trial and its results even though impaired by missing plots.


accessment:
Develops a contingency plan to minimise theft and, deals with loss without trial abandonment.

compentency:
Works with stakeholders and NARI staff to ensure theft is reduced.

behaviour:
Set up trials so that theft is minimised- esp. working carefully with stakeholders and neighbours to ensure they support the research.

attitude:
Protective attitude to study and prepared to work closely with both NARI staff and stakeholders to ensure collaboration.

knowledge:
Be able to calculate components of yield- e.g. corn yield g m2= plants/m2  x stems per plant x cobs per stem x weight of corn per cob.


accessment:
Plans for best reaction to missing data.

compentency:
Manages appropriately tree and animal death, bullying or sickness in an experiment.

behaviour:
Designs studies with flexibility so that normal losses of experimental material can be managed.

attitude:
Recognises that what can go wrong will go wrong and plans accordingly.

knowledge:
Good planning and regular recording of observations on plots can improve ability to cope with losses during the study.


accessment:
Uses regression and correlation competently, seeking advice where appropriate.

compentency:
Understands the use of regression and correlation (and partial correlation) - underlying assumptions, dependent/independent variables, co-dependent variables; points of high leverage and what to do with them, confidence and fiducial limits.

behaviour:
If appropriate, will use regression and correlation in analysing experiments. Analysis method identified and trialed with dummy data before undertaking an study.

knowledge:
Understands the key reasons for using regression and correlation analysis and able to interpret outputs from analysis.


accessment:
Data presented have means in appropriate tables and/or figures with appropriate measures of variability.

compentency:
Completes basic statistical calculations (means, std deviation, standard error) accurately and appropriately. Presents data in appropriate ways- tables, figures.

attitude:
Recognises that a mean alone may be misleading.


accessment:
Surveys have been analysed competently, often using skilled biometricians.

compentency:
Understand non-parametric methods,  regression and correlation analysis, multivariate methods using appropriate software.

knowledge:
Knows enough to know that biometrical help is needed here!


accessment:
Research conducted identifies, records and uses covariates appropriately.

behaviour:
Through an understanding of covariance, researcher uses appropriately.


accessment:
Uses software appropriately, seeking help where needed.

compentency:
Uses appropriate computer software analysis package(s) to generate correct analysis (at least for most common applications.  Biometrician to carry out more complicated analyses)

knowledge:
Knows at least one software package and how to use.


accessment:
Data is analysed and presented appropriately.

compentency:
Understand ‘assumptions’ underlying analysis and use diagnostics to check these assumptions; investigates residuals, uses transformations appropriately, understands use of pair wise testing, partitions treatment effects appropriately.

knowledge:
Knows the assumptions and background to ANOVA.


compentency:
Uses standard procedures to test for differences among means.

knowledge:
Knows when to apply tests such as Duncan's, LSD, T-Test, ANOVA.


accessment:
Tools are sharpened and maintained with due regard to safety and use. Discusses key issues with assessor.

compentency:
Maintains cutting edges, parts that will rust and handles of common digging tools.

behaviour:
Correctly sharpens the edge of common digging and gardening tools.  Also maintains tool handles. Able to fit new handles to common digging and gardening tools. Stores tools in such a way that they are secure and dry.

knowledge:
Knows the maintenance requirements of common tools used for digging and cutting.


accessment:
General equipment is clean, maintained and any problems are reported promptly. Actions are pro-active rather than reactive (maintenance is better than fixing something after it is broken).

compentency:
Maintains and cleans general equipment ensuring that breakages are not the result of careless use or abuse.

behaviour:
Keeps equipment clean, ensures that it is regularly serviced and not used inappropriately (e.g. fertilizers and corrosive chemicals used on top loading electronic balances).

attitude:
Priority to care for research equipment. A careful approach to use of research budgets in terms of tools and equipment will pay dividends.

knowledge:
Recognises value of a maintenance program.


accessment:
Trials has sustained freedom from waterlogging

compentency:
Able to dig and clean simple drains as directed.

behaviour:
Digs/constructs and cleans drains as directed.

attitude:
Aims to keep drains functioning well to ensure that NARI research objectives are not compromised by inadequately maintained drains.

knowledge:
Understands the consequences of over-deepening drains and of using incorrect angles on side walls. Understands that drain cleanings and subsoils will affect soil chemistry and biology and must only be spread where directed- i.e. plot variability must be reduced.


compentency:
Fire breaks cleared and maintained to the agreed standards.

behaviour:
Able to clear and maintain firebreaks using agreed techniques.

attitude:
Appreciate the danger to the project and the local community the potential of loss to fire.

knowledge:
Understand any reasons why the project is using different standards to the local land owners.


accessment:
Planned water supply for trials is not interrupted.

compentency:
Able to repair leaks, replace broken joints, sections of pipe, fix leaks and dripping taps.

behaviour:
Able to replace a section of damaged water supply pipe. Able to replace pipe joints, and  service a leaking joints. Able to service a dripping tap.

attitude:
Appreciate that leaks lead to damage to soil and property structures.

knowledge:
Understand the amount lost from a drip and the contribution of leaks to shortages in the dry season.


accessment:
Fences constructed are sustainable for purpose intended.

compentency:
Able to construct fences from local materials using techniques that give longevity  to the fence and use materials efficiently. Attends to the maintenance needs of fences to ensure they remain capable of doing the task they were constructed to do.

behaviour:
Installs posts and rails for a local materials fence as instructed. Able to select the most appropriate local materials for fence construction and repair.  Maintains local materials fences as required.

attitude:
Appreciates the value and limitations of using local fencing materials.  Willing to experiment with different designs and materials.

knowledge:
Knowledge of selection of materials and reasons for use of the techniques.


compentency:
Able to construct fences from posts and wire using techniques that give longevity  to the fence and use materials efficiently. Attends to the maintenance needs of post and wire fences to ensure they remain capable of doing the task they were constructed to do.

behaviour:
Able to construct strainer assemblies. Able to install fence posts. Able to handle plain, barbed and netting wire. Tie knots, strain, and tie off to correct tensions.

attitude:
Aims to produce quality fences that will last and perform well.

knowledge:
Knowledge of selection of materials and reasons for use of the learned techniques. Is aware of electric fencing options and NARI policy relating to electric fencing.


accessment:
Shows total awareness of risks associated with electricity

compentency:
Be able to safely replace bulbs, fluorescent tubes, fuses. Be able to see danger in electricity- reporting to those whose primary task is electrical maintenance.

behaviour:
Able to replace electrical bulbs, and fuses. Reports any discovered faults in the electrical system and electrical appliances to the appropriate person.

knowledge:
Understands the danger of un-maintained electrical systems and appliances. Understands the dangers to self and others from electrocution. Knows how to  manage if an electrocution occurs by safely removing the casualty  from the source of electricity and apply artificial respiration and cardiac massage.


compentency:
Able to 100% accurately carry out the prescribed pre start checks for vehicles being used by staff member.

behaviour:
Regularly and accurately carries out prescribed pre start checks.

attitude:
No matter what- I will do this every day.

knowledge:
Understands the consequences for vehicle, driver, passengers and cargo if pre start checks are not carried out as prescribed.


compentency:
Able to carry out prescribed end of use checks and maintenance.

behaviour:
Regularly and accurately carries out prescribed end of use checking and maintenance.

knowledge:
Understands the consequences for vehicle, driver, passengers and cargo if end of use checking is not carried out as prescribed.


compentency:
Able to carry out expected  maintenance checks. Able to carry out prescribed maintenance tasks.

behaviour:
Applies maintenance skills in regular checks of vehicle safety. Does not undertake repair and maintenance beyond qualifications.

knowledge:
Understands NARI's safety policy on vehicle maintenance.


compentency:
Able to carry out appropriate monitoring of a vehicle during daily use. Able to change a wheel in a typical roadside location.

behaviour:
Regularly and accurately carries out prescribed monitoring of the vehicle during use. Able to carry out other occasional daily use tasks e.g. wheel changing

knowledge:
Understands the consequences for vehicle, driver, passengers and cargo if monitoring of vehicle performance and safety are not carried out as prescribed.


accessment:
Graphs produced meet requirements of editors.

compentency:
Uses software (eg Sigma Plot) to produce graphs showing appropriate error bars and data is clear, concise and well labelled.

attitude:
Continues to expand knowledge in terms of presenting information clearly and to a high standard.

knowledge:
Knows basic features of an advanced graphing package- eg Sigma Plot.


topic:
Community networks- relationship and importance


topic:
R'ships & Imptce at community level- Venn diagram

accessment:
Venn diagrams produced by villagers are effective in helping them to develop effective and productive relationships with others.

compentency:
Works with communities, includes men and women  to develop Venn diagrams- relationship and importance of various

behaviour:
Is an effective facilitator, not needing to dominate discussions.

attitude:
Includes men and women appropriately. Does not know it all.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of Venn diagrams in helping villagers to plan their future relationships with outsiders.


accessment:
Timelines developed with villagers result in new understandings for villagers, leading them to greater awareness of need for change and possibilities for their future. Impact of events on community has been discussed effectively by groups.

compentency:
Chronological description of important events which occurred in the village's past is developed- eg. when community established,  first outsider arrived, schools and or churches/roads/stores established, bad droughts, floods, epidemics.

attitude:
Ensures that eldest speak early, as these people have the most to contribute. Includes men and women appropriately.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of Timelines in helping villagers understand how their present has been shaped by their past.


accessment:
Facilitator walks with a group from the community around the village. The discussion is managed by the people and it is their map that they draw with only minimal assistance/interference from the facilitator.

compentency:
Works with villagers to develop community and farm maps that encourage people to understand particular areas with specific problems and opportunities.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of community maps and farm maps in helping villagers understand opportunities that are present in their community. Maps identify key buildings, and issues relating to land form (topography, land-use, water sources, toilets etc). Importance of rotation and fallow land management is clearly understood.


topic:
Gender disaggregated work flow/calendar in village

accessment:
Produces charts that are helpful in the village, encouraging each person to value the work of others- men and women.

compentency:
Works with village groups to complete village developed chart which shows work flow and intensity for men and women over a year.

attitude:
Includes men and women appropriately. Does not prejudge the situation in the village- rather seeks to draw from the village their own unique ways of managing work between men and women, young and old.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of involving all members of a community in developing gender disaggregated charts.


accessment:
At least 50% of community based activity plans, identified during PRAP activities are implememented.

compentency:
Works with community to identify and rank problems, propose solutions, analyse feasibility and completes SWOT analysis on preferred options. Communities plan concrete activities- with SMART objectives (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timebound).

behaviour:
Acts in ways that empower villagers to fulfil their development plans.

attitude:
Encourages all to participate, encourages the community to develop strong partnerships with others who can assist them fulfil their development plans.

knowledge:
Knows how to work with groups, setting achievable objectives.


accessment:
Timeline trends produced by villagers cover important issues such as population, harvests, quality of life, eating habits- eg proportion of rice in diet, deforestation, fallow periods and show how these have changed over time.

compentency:
Produces timelines with villagers that show trends over time and encourages villagers to think about these issues and plan for future changes.

attitude:
Includes men and women appropriately. Does not prejudge the situation in the village- rather seeks to draw from the village their own unique experiences over time.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of Trend Analysis in helping villagers understand how changes are occuring (perhaps without them initially realising their importance).


topic:
Livelihood, Income and Expenditure Matrix

accessment:
Matrices developed describe main types of income and expenditure. Time spent and income generated are shown in the matrices.

compentency:
With effective facilitation community develops matrices in the form of a calendar that show work done and money gained from a range of activities in and outside of the village.

behaviour:
Does not feel the need to run the discussions, rather seeks to involve all members in the discussions.

attitude:
Ensures men and women are working together well, listening to each other. Values different inputs from different people. Eg salaried work is not valued more highly than the work of those caring for children or the elderly.

knowledge:
Knows the importance of involving all groups (eg farmers and artisans, men and women) to ensure that results are meaningful.


# Reports

ReportName:
Competencies (Required / Acquired) for Employees


ReportName:
Full Competency Details for Staff Categories


ReportName:
Competency Titles by Parent and Sub Groups


# trainingevents

notes:
Andrew Thomas found the training v. difficult needs different approach for technicians


notes:
bench mark system, position paper written, goals, site selection, a major project for NARI.


notes:
requires a training manual- refer Kerevat manual


notes:
Key NARI mgmt staff understand NARI philosophy, mentoring.


notes:
Date to mesh with potential NARI induction


notes:
not a lot learned today by dave and paul.


