The CPD Cycle- What is it?
When it comes to CPD and creating a CPD plan, there are a few things you need to do first. This is the CPD cycle! Now you may know what a CPD plan is, we’ve got plenty of blogs about a CPD plan and how to create one. However, you may not know about the CPD cycle. This is a really great way to start to plan what you need to do.
The CPD cycle is a very helpful and practical tool that helps you structure your annual CPD plan, as well as learning objectives and outcomes. To ensure that the training you’re undertaking is suitable and worthwhile for your ongoing CPD. The use of this cycle can help you become a more competent professional. So what are the stages of the CPD cycle?
Step 1- Identify your needs
The first step of the CPD cycle is to complete the process of identifying any gaps in your skills and knowledge. To help you do this, you can complete a self-assessment or needs analysis. To help identify current weaknesses and areas you want to improve and develop. Which will help you establish a general overview of your learning objectives.
Step 2- Planning
Once you have identified the gaps in your skills and areas that need developing. The next step is to create a set of specific objectives that help you break down and decide which activities and subjects would support your development objectives.
Step 3- Doing
The next step is actually completing activities, such as attending various suitable CPD-accredited training, educational events, online courses and webinars. All of which help you achieve the learning objectives that you outlined. Keep focused on training and events that will improve upon your professional development weak areas, as well as cater to any knowledge gaps you previously identified.
Step 4- Reflecting on your learning
Once any training courses or other types of CPD have been completed, it’s important to reflect upon the success of the activity. The reflection stage should help you highlight some questions. These are:
- What did I learn
- How has my knowledge increased
- What skills have I learnt
- What can I put into practice,
- And how can I make a positive improvement to my existing work activities
Reflection after completing any CPD activity makes it simple to apply a practical solution-based process to ensure that your professional development is successful.
Step 5- Implementing new knowledge
Finally, step 5. This is the final stage of the CPD cycle. It’s to implement new knowledge and skills into your existing workplace. Then you’ve completed the CPD cycle. It’s important that you use any new knowledge, as it would have been for nothing if you didn’t! Not to mention that it’s also important that you complete CPD regularly.
If you need any help with CPD, you can get in touch with us to have a chat! You can give us a call on 01205 805 155 and our advisors would be happy to help.