For individuals and organisations alike, CPD trackers serve as vital tools to document learning and development. But here’s a question: Does your CPD tracker truly capture the full spectrum of your development journey?
Beyond Formal Learning
Traditionally, CPD trackers focus on structured, formal learning experiences: workshops, courses, certifications, and conferences. These are undeniably important. However, development is not confined to classrooms or online modules. In fact, we grow and learn in almost every aspect of our lives—whether it’s through navigating challenges at work, exploring hobbies, or volunteering in our communities.
Take a moment to think about the last time you learned something truly impactful. Was it during a formal training session, or was it while problem-solving on the job, mentoring a colleague, or even mastering a new skill in your personal time? Growth is not linear, and learning doesn’t come with a syllabus.
Embracing Holistic Development
The most effective CPD trackers recognise this and adopt a broader approach. They acknowledge that growth occurs in diverse contexts, encompassing:
- On-the-Job Learning: Every day at work presents opportunities to sharpen skills. Problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership moments all contribute to development.
- Personal Pursuits: Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reading extensively, or engaging in passion projects, personal interests often provide unexpected skills that enhance professional capabilities.
- Volunteering and Community Engagement: These experiences can hone soft skills such as empathy, communication, and team coordination, while also building technical expertise.
- Leisure and Informal Experiences: Even seemingly casual activities, like traveling, participating in sports, or engaging in creative arts, develop skills like adaptability, discipline, and innovation.
Helping Your Team Recognise and Track Growth
Organisations play a pivotal role in encouraging individuals to adopt a broad perspective on development. A CPD tracker designed with this mindset doesn’t just record the number of hours spent in formal learning; it also:
- Encourages Reflection: Asking users to reflect on moments of growth, big or small, and tie them to specific competencies.
- Supports Goal Setting: Helping individuals identify gaps in their development and set targeted goals, based on insights from both formal and informal experiences.
- Offers Recognition: Validating diverse forms of development helps individuals feel valued and encourages a culture of lifelong learning.
Shifting the Focus from Tracking to Empowering
Ultimately, the purpose of a CPD tracker is not just to document activities but to empower individuals and teams to recognise, target, and celebrate their development holistically. This approach not only builds well-rounded professionals but also fosters engagement and satisfaction within teams.
So, the next time you review your CPD tracker, ask yourself: Does it capture the full story of your growth? If the answer is no, perhaps it’s time to explore tools and strategies that celebrate the richness of your development journey—inside and outside the formal learning environment.
