The ITP supports the continuing professional development (CPD) of people working in the the telecommunications profession – to raise the standards and recognition of this profession.
What is CPD?
CPD is a combination of approaches, ideas and techniques that will help you manage your own learning and growth. The focus of CPD is firmly on results – the benefits that professional development can bring you in the real world. Wherever you are in your career now, and whatever you want to achieve, your CPD should reflect your personal development journey.
How should I go about recording my CPD?
CPD isn't a fixed process. Fundamentally, it's a question of setting yourself objectives for development and then charting your progress towards achieving them. It's about where you want to be, and how you plan to get there. The ITP recommends an approach which is based on reflection and is focused on outcomes and results - rather than 'time spent' or 'things done'. The ITP have created a template of a Development Plan (to use to set overall annual and monthly/quarterly objectives) and a Development Record to record the learning activities you undertook and how they fit in with your objectives. These can be downloaded below:
Development Plan
Development Record
Why should I keep a CPD record?
As a professional, you have a responsibility to keep your skills and knowledge up to date. CPD helps you turn that accountability into a positive opportunity to identify and achieve your own career objectives. It also shows that you are ‘maintaining your competence’ and therefore demonstrating your commitment to the ITP’s Code of Conduct.
What should be included in my CPD records?
You may studying for recognised qualifications and all the learning involved in the course can be recorded on the CPD forms.
However, other development material is also very relevant for any professional (whether studying for a course or not) and should be included. Examples of other material are:
- Attending Events or Seminars (visit the ITP’s Events page to see what is on in your area)
- Reading research papers or books
- Reading articles in The Journal
- Reading online tutorials
- Spending time with a mentor
Reflecting on the past and planning for the future in this way makes your development more methodical and easier to measure. This is a particularly useful exercise prior to your annual appraisal!
If you would like further support in completing your CPD form, please email: enquiries@theitp.org
