STANDARD OUTPUT CATEGORIES
33. The hierarchical structure of the ASCED allows users the flexibility to output statistics at the level of the classification which best suits their requirements. Data can be presented at Broad Field level, Narrow Field level, or the base Detailed Field (third) level. If necessary, significant Detailed Fields within a Narrow Field can be presented separately while the remaining Detailed Fields within the Narrow Field are aggregated. For example, the third-level category '030503 Vehicle Mechanics' can be separately identified as an output category within the Narrow Field '0305 Automotive Engineering and Technology', with the remaining third-level Detailed Field categories in this Narrow Field aggregated in an 'Other Automotive Engineering and Technology' category. The same principle can be adopted to highlight significant Narrow Fields within a Broad Field.
34. Regardless of the level of aggregation envisaged for the dissemination of data, wherever possible, data should be captured, classified and stored at the base level of the classification. Collecting and storing data at the most detailed level of the classification allows the greatest flexibility for the output of data, enables more detailed and complex analysis, facilitates comparisons with previous data using different classifications, and preserves information that may prove historically useful.
35. However, the constraints affecting each statistical collection or other application, such as problems with confidentiality or standard errors, may not permit the collection or output of data at the more detailed levels of the classification. Nevertheless, the use of a standard classification will enhance data comparability even though it may not always be possible to disseminate the data at the most detailed level.
36. The following output set is standard for this variable:
Natural and physical sciences
Information technology
Engineering and related technologies
Architecture and building
Agriculture, environmental and related studies
Health
Education
Management and commerce
Society and culture
Creative arts
Food, hospitality and personal services
Mixed field programmes
Field not determined
37. Census Basic and Expanded Community Profiles use the following set of output categories:
Natural and physical sciences
Information technology
Engineering and related technologies
Architecture and building
Agriculture, environmental and related studies
Health
Education
Management and commerce
Society and culture
Creative arts
Food, hospitality and personal services
Mixed field programmes
Inadequately described
Not stated
Not applicable
Print Page