Definitions of Terms
Certain terms are defined here to clarify their use in the Monthly Probationary Evaluation and their applications in other evaluation settings. First, the competency levels are discussed and, then, selected terms are explained.
The three competency levels provide “bench marks” describing the Probationary Firefighter’s level of performance. These competency levels are: (a) general, (b) working, and (c) qualified.
General competency level: General competency is the foundation level of learning. At this level the firefighter develops an understanding of new knowledge and relates this knowledge to previous knowledge. He/she learns terminology and nomenclature, basic methods and procedures, and can provide basic explanations and summarize information. Memorization, recall, and explanation of information would be typical behaviors. The general competency level is characterized by the firefighter demonstrating knowledge of expected attitudes and an ability to explain why the attitudes are important.
Working competency level: Working competency is the level of learning that connects the general competency level with performance in the field. It is the minimum competency level Probationary Firefighters must achieve in most of the various evaluation factors (e.g., “Approach Towards Supervisors,” “Productivity and Quality of Work,” and “Safety Consciousness”) at the time they graduate from the Fire Academy. The development of working competency may initially require direct supervision. As the firefighter blends knowledge and skills, and the good judgement of when, where, and how to apply them, the Captain’s supervision may become more indirect. Increased efficiency in action leads to smooth, fluid actions performed with little to no hesitation. Positive work attitudes become increasingly more a part of the firefighter’s habits of behavior.
Qualified competency level: Qualified competency is the learning level characterized by an ability to work independently when necessary and to operate as an integral member of a team when required. He/she is a self-starter with sound basic knowledge and skills; he/she responds rather than reacts to fire and rescue problems, even under stressful situations. At this level the firefighter demonstrates an organized personal and professional value system.
The following definitions are presented to guide Captains toward more accurate, clear, and consistent evaluations:
1. Adequate: Acceptable, but not remarkable; sufficient for a specific requirement.
2. Appropriate: Especially suitable or compatible; to assign to a particular purpose or use
3. Consistent: Holding to the same practice or principles; reliable; steady
4. Enthusiasm: Eager interest in or administration for a proposal, cause, or activity; devotion to a cause
5. Frequently: Occurring often or habitually; happening repeatedly
6. Inconsistent: Not holding to the same principles or practices; unreliable; not steady
7. Occasionally: Sometimes; now and then; infrequently or irregularly
8. Proper: Suitable; correct; meets standards
9. Reasonable: Sensible; logical; possessing sound judgement
10. Recognize: See and acknowledge; perceive clearly;
11. Relevant: Pertinent; to the point; having significant and demonstrative bearing on the matter at hand
12. Satisfactory: Adequate; meets requirements
13. Usually: Most often; custom; common or ordinarily used; found in ordinary practice or in the ordinary course of events