Continuing professional development
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) /kənˈtɪn.juː.ɪŋ prəˈfɛʃ.ən.əl dɪˈvɛl.əp.mənt/ is a term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities. It enables learning to become conscious and proactive, rather than passive and reactive.
Etymology
The term "Continuing Professional Development" originates from the concept of lifelong learning, where professionals continue to learn and develop throughout their careers. The term was first used in the 1970s in the context of Continuing Medical Education (CME), and has since been adopted by other professions.
Definition
CPD combines different methodologies to learning, such as training workshops, conferences and events, e-learning programs, best practice techniques and ideas sharing, all focused for an individual to improve and have effective professional development. There are over 1000 institutes & professional bodies across the UK, a number that is forecast to increase.
Importance
Continuing Professional Development ensures that both academic and practical qualifications do not become outdated or obsolete; allowing individuals to continually ‘up skill’ or ‘re-skill’ themselves, irrespective of occupation, age or educational level.
Related Terms
- Professional Development: The skills and knowledge attained for both personal development and career advancement.
- Continuing Education: Ongoing education that is parallel to a person's career to support their professional development.
- Lifelong Learning: The ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons.
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