CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVIDENCE FOR CPD

PROVE IT! – PART 2 – WHAT IS EVIDENCE?

INTRODUCTION It's one thing having to make sure your CPD is valid, authentic, current and sufficient, but how on earth do you prove it has developed you professionally? What kinds of evidence can you present to prove what has happened to your knowledge or understanding? One definition of the word “evidence” explains that it “indicates clearly, exemplifies or proves things that are helpful in forming a conclusion or judgment”. This article hopes to give you some idea of the types of evidence you can use. However, this is not an exhaustive description of the options available to you. Anything can be used as evidence, and you may have some workable ideas of your own. All that matters is that the evidence supports how the CPD you have undertaken has changed, increased, enhanced or influenced your existing knowledge base, skills or practice. Keep in mind, too, that one piece of evidence may not be enough to prove anything, so multip!e forms may be needed, which is where this article helps. But it is up to you ultimately to ensure that you can “prove it”.

WHAT COUNTS AS EVIDENCE?

The range of material that counts towards CPD evidence is very diverse (Figure 1) but all of it can be used to build a very persuasive portfolio if you know what proof is expected.

Recognised qualifications This is most certainly the easiest and most credible platform from which to prove your competence.

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Specialist activities n Preparing a presentation n Preparing a publication

Figure 1: Suitable materials for your portfolio

Having a recognised qualification shows beyond doubt that you can apply, implement and understand the standards contained within that

qualification. Formally assessed courses are designed in such a way that they allow you not only to acquire new knowledge and skills, but also give you

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This is the final part of our series on continuous professional development (CPD) and the evidence that proves it has been done. Anything can be used as evidence, as long as it demonstrates that the CPD you have undertaken has changed, increased, enhanced or influenced your knowledge base, skills or practice. We look at all sources of CPD from gaining qualifications to supplying your own client notes, but whatever the source, the important part is proving that you have learnt!

Practical and observation n Client notes n Demonstration n Videos and n Witness testimony other media n Past experiences

n Photographs

Understanding n Recording knowledge

n Reflective accounts

n Professional discussions

n Questioning

PORTFOLIO OF

EVIDENCE

Learning and academic n Recognised qualifications

n Theory tests n Exams n Past achievements