The CPD Cycle
It is important for individuals to keep a record of their annual Continuing Professional Development activities. This information must be kept up to date and be able to meet the requirements of their professional body or association. A key way to ensure that CPD activities are accurately managed and recorded is by using the CPD Cycle. It is a practical tool that helps an individual to structure their Continuing Professional Development easily throughout the year, and to identify regular and measurable improvements in their work-related skills and knowledge.
There are five key stages in the CPD Cycle that are important when planning your professional development learning activities for the year.
Stage 1 – Identifying Needs
Complete a simple self-assessment or needs analysis to help identify current weaknesses and any future areas to develop and improve upon skills and knowledge. This will assist in establishing a general overview of learning objectives for the year.
Stage 2 – Planning
Once the necessary skills gaps and areas of development have been identified, the next step is to create a set of specific training objectives that help to breakdown and decide which learning activities will support achieving CPD goals.
Stage 3 – Acting/Doing
Attend appropriate learning opportunities such as CPD accredited training courses, seminars, workshops and events that can help achieve the objectives outlined in the initial needs analysis. Remain focused on training that will immediately help to improve upon weak areas, and caters for knowledge gaps that were previously identified.
Stage 4 - Reflecting on learning
Once any training courses or other types of CPD have been completed, it is important to reflect upon the success of the activity. The reflection stage should help to highlight:
- What did I learn?
- How has my knowledge increased?
- What skills have I gained?
- What can I put into practice?
- How can I make a positive impact at work?
Reflection like this after completing any CPD activity makes it simple to apply a practical solution-based process to ensuring that Continuing Professional Development is successful.
Stage 5 – Implement your new learning
The final stage of the CPD Cycle is to apply the new knowledge and skills to the workplace and in doing so complete the full process of the CPD Cycle.
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