PRIVATE STRUCTURED LEARNING AND CPD
The value of learning through reading about the experience
and advice of others has long been recognised. Private structured learning is
therefore widely perceived to be one of the key tools in the acquisition of
professional knowledge. It offers a flexible and cost effective way of
undertaking CPD as a method of improving understanding in a chosen area.
What is Private Structured Learning?
This concept primarily concentrates on the need for a
structured and disciplined approach to private study. Ad hoc reading of
trade/professional journals can be useful in updating basic knowledge, but only
to a limited extent. Private structured learning should go much further than
this.
The Personal Development Planner has been developed to encourage the
examination of personal development needs and to plan CPD accordingly,
and having defined a personal CPD programme in this way, it is likely
that at least some of the needs identified could be met by private study.
Resources for Private Structured Learning
An in-depth study of a given subject area, using several
different references if possible, should increase the level of knowledge and
provide a balanced view of the issues involved. Such study could form a
programme, particularly if based on an imaginative use of references. Some
suggestions for sources of information are listed as follows:
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books
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articles in journals/magazines
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technical manuals
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research papers
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transcript of speeches/conference items
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lecture/seminar notes
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study packs
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reports/guidance notes issued by professional bodies
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government policy documents
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CD-Roms
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Internet sites of professional interest
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videos
This list is by no means exhaustive and any material
providing the relevant information is acceptable. However, it is important to
remember that the greatest benefit can only be achieved through using this
material in a structured way.
How to follow through
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Read an article on an identified subject or new topic, if relevant;
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Find out whether your in-company, public or institute Library has appropriate reading lists;
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or ask for a reading list to be prepared;
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Enquire whether you can borrow the material you need or purchase direct;
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Write up your notes and findings as a reference document for your company
so that others may benefit from your research and consider whether it would
be worthwhile to arrange a discussion with colleagues;
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Record the experience on your Personal Development Planner. Note the
subject as the main heading and list the information sources. Finally
cross-reference your entry so you can retrieve your more detailed notes at a
future date;
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Prepare a talk to give within your company or to the local Branch of your
Institute;
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Prepare an article for publication in a professional or trade journal or
the branch Newsletter
Each stage can count towards your CPD commitment.
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