Education is changing dramatically. No longer are students expected to attend university to gain a top role in their industry. However, it is still crucial to undertake some form of training to boost a C.V. or resume. Ensuring these trainings or courses possess formal CPD accreditation provides the very best quality of learning. Especially in these times, many are unable to attend face-to-face training during the pandemic, but this doesn’t mean that training should be placed on hold for months or even years.
The e-learning industry is set to be worth a staggering $325 billion by 2025 and many are taking advantage of this by creating courses for every sector and interest. However, not all courses available online come with quality and value for money, which is why CPD accreditation is more important than ever.
What is CPD Accreditation?
CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and is a certification given to courses that have been independently verified by governing bodies who specialize in CPD for a given industry.
It does not only encompass formal training, but it also includes activities and more creative methods of learning. This means those with any learning requirements have the chance to achieve and complete these courses.
What are the Benefits of CPD Accredited Training?
1. Helps Advance Knowledge In Your Current Profession
Every sector needs to keep on top of new practices, procedures, technologies and any other changes within the industry. CPD accredited courses are written by experts in these fields and are constantly being updated with the latest information.
Some professions require members to actively participate in CPD courses. For example, organizations like the Isle of Man Branch of The Chartered Governance Institute (ICSA) advise that all members should take part in at least 20 hours of CPD training a year.
2. Aids Career Progression and Development
Undertaking a CPD course will not only benefit a trainee in their current position, but will also help towards their career progression. Those who are wishing to step-up in their current role and be considered for promotions may stand out above others who have not actively taken part in this form of training.
If applying for an external position, candidates can state they have undertaken these courses to show proof of their knowledge and their initiative to further their expertise within a given field.
It can even help when looking for a career change. Even entry-level positions are highly competitive and it can feel impossible to even be considered for a new role with no previous experience. CPD courses can help pad a resume with the right skills to land the position.
Completing CPD accredited courses within a new field can be the make or break decision as to whether a candidate is offered an interview or not. Once this interview is secured, a candidate can show off their new-found knowledge from these courses to the interviewer.
3. Gives Access To Professionals and Experts Through Digital Platforms
These courses do not just provide the written content needed to complete the course. Throughout the learning process, students have the opportunity to network and contact professionals within the field to ask questions and provide clarity in areas.
This access is not restricted after completion of these courses, and trainees are able to continue to log onto these digital platforms after they’ve completed their courses.
Forums are created for those who have completed the course to openly discuss their training and aid each other if needed. It also provides a platform for feedback so content writers can constantly adapt their courses.
4. Keeps Consistent Standards
Not everyone learns at the same rate, and with most employees having different learning methods that work for them, it can be an arduous task to keep training consistent and effective within the workplace. What works for one staff member could be counterproductive for another. CPD accredited courses come in a variety of styles, from gamification, video tutorials and lectures to conventional reading.
This means all employees can be trained within the areas they need, while ensuring that information is retained and reduces stress for those who may struggle with certain learning methods. Courses have no time limit, meaning that those who learn at a slower pace can still keep in line with their colleagues, even if it takes them a little longer to complete.
5. Allows for Easy Accessibility
Every team member has different tasks throughout their working day and this means client work and company targets could be compromised if a student completes face-to-face training. Pulling all employees away from their desks at the same time can be detrimental. As these courses can be accessed from any device and some providers have created apps for mobile and tablet devices, this means they can be accessed at a time and place convenient to employees.
Whether it’s on the train during the morning commute or at home in front of the television, having such easy accessibility makes a huge difference to the learning process.
6. Piques Curiosity
Whether an employee is a keen learner or a reluctant one, CPD courses can pique the curiosity of all. Especially to those who are new to a field, the barrier of ‘not knowing what you don’t know’ can lead to even the most eager of learners not knowing the areas where they can improve.
CPD courses cater to specific areas, but will often touch on other practices or knowledge. Upon completion of these, other courses are recommended. This could be an extension of the one that was completed or something new within the sector.
These are just a few examples of the benefits of CPD accredited training within the workplace. Filling gaps in knowledge and furthering skill sets can benefit students, employers, clients and even suppliers. Making sure employee training is as up-to-date as possible, without impeding on a working day, can benefit all levels of professionals and keep everyone satisfied.