A key part of an effective CPD process includes recording and reflecting on professional learning experiences. This involves keeping a proper and up-to-date record or log. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of managing a CPD log, as well as a summary and analysis of the poll we recently held on our LinkedIn page regarding online vs offline CPD records.
What are the different aspects of a CPD log?
Developing a well-rounded skillset and perspective is important in being an effective professional. It is generally recommend that a variety of different types of CPD activities be undertaken (e.g. formal training, seminar, events & practical experience) not only to keep the training fresh, but to maximise learning through ensuring that the individual needs of all kinds of learners is met. If you would like to find out more on the different types of CPD, please go to our CPD Explained page.
Many governing bodies place specific importance on the desired ‘Learning Outcomes’. This ensures that a CPD activity doesn’t simply become a checkbox exercise for individuals, but will have specific goals and a set of measurable objectives that they can then apply.
To ensure that a log is accurately representative of activities undertaken, each CPD entry should contain the following 5 key pieces of information as a minimum:
1. Date
2. CPD Hours
3. Description of learning activity
4. Reflection
5. Evidence of participation
What learning activities does a good CPD log / record include?
There are many different types of activities that can be logged and included on your personal CPD record. The main goal is to highlight further learning activities and ongoing development that has impacted or enhanced your professional skills & abilities. Below we provide some simple examples that can be included in a CPD log:
- Training courses, workshops and seminars
- Educational conferences and events
- eLearning and webinars you have attended
- Formal development or personal study
- Peer review, mentoring or shadowing
- Reading relevant journal articles or reviewing books
- Engagement in work-related discussion forums and blogs
- On-the-job learning and practical experience
Your CPD record should be completed in as much detail as possible, while also being relevant and avoiding anything that can be considered unnecessary. Due to GDPR, your CPD log must not contain any personal information that can identify any individual you may have supported or worked with. Generally, we also advise completing your log as close to completion of each CPD activity as possible, whilst it’s still fresh in your mind.
Analysis of our LinkedIn Survey Poll results
Our LinkedIn poll was taken in May 2022 and the results indicated that 70% of voters were in favour of recording their CPD record in an online format vs only 30% who preferred to keep an offline / paper CPD log.
The overwhelming support of keeping this online can most likely be attributed to many different variables, such as adoption and use of technology and overall ease of access. It is important to note that some organisations and governing bodies (e.g. RICS), increasingly oblige their members to keep their CPD record online. This is understandable, as an online CPD record can be easily shared and verified by the relevant course providers and governing bodies.
Some of the other reasons for keeping an online CPD record include:
- Better able to track CPD learning activities you have attended in an easy format.
- You can upload information directly into a record, which can include backlinks to additional sources or supporting evidence of participation.
- You can back up CPD records or certificates by storing these inside the cloud, or onto a physical location that is not connected to the internet such as an external hard drive.
- Records can be easily accessed and updated from any computer with an internet connection.
- You can easily share your CPD log / record with your employer or through your network on social media.
myCPD Portal
myCPD Portal is a free powerful online CPD tool to help you manage, record and log your ongoing Continuing Professional Development in one simple place. Keep a track of training courses, workshops, seminars, eLearning, conferences and events that you have attended throughout the year. Store CPD certificates, set annual targets, analyse your progress and download your CPD record for your employer or professional body.
The CPD Certification Service
We hope this article was helpful and informative. To learn out more about how to log and record your CPD activities, you can read our previous articles:
How do you log your CPD training?
Simple advice on recording your CPD activities
Established in 1996, The CPD Certification Service has over 27 years’ experience providing CPD accreditation. With members in over 100 countries, our CPD providers benefit from the ability to promote themselves as part of an international community where quality is both recognised and assured.
If you are interested in offering training courses, seminars, workshops, eLearning, or educational events suitable for Continuing Professional Development, please visit the Become a CPD Provider page or contact our team to discuss in more detail. Alternatively, if you are looking for a free online CPD record tool to help manage, track and log your ongoing learning, as well as store your professional training records and attendance certificates in one simple place, go to the myCPD Portal page.
