Neither the CISI nor the CII track Insurance Distribution Directive CPD, though it is a requirement for many of their members. Not all professional bodies accept employer CPD records.
In summary, more can be done to make it easier for members to track their CPD. On the plus side, the professional bodies offer a wider range of CPD, although much of it is provided through a sponsorship model that often excludes experts.
Different ways of learning
As we seek to develop the next generation of advisers, they have already embraced alternative methods of learning and testing at schools and universities.
There is a move towards social and collaborative learning, which involves bringing learners together in a virtual or physical environment to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and learn from each other.
Social and collaborative learning can be highly effective, as it enables learners to share their expertise and perspectives and learn from a wide range of sources.
It can also create a sense of community and support, which can help to motivate learners and keep them engaged with the learning process.
Social and collaborative learning can be facilitated through a range of tools and technologies, such as online forums, videoconferencing and collaborative workspaces. The LIBF has incorporated this into some of its professional development already and others are exploring this as an option.
And then the elephant in the room, AI and machine learning technologies. These technologies are already being used to personalise learning experiences, provide instant feedback, and to support and track learners’ progress.
As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and personalised learning experiences that are tailored to individual learners’ needs and preferences.
Automated chat facilities are also becoming a challenge for assessment methods from primary school through to lifelong learning.
The genie cannot be put back in the box, and we will need to work out how to embrace the access to knowledge we all have.
In the real world, we have always been able to refer to a manual – does it matter that students have access to knowledge too that supports their learning?
Focusing on application of knowledge rather than the ability to memorise knowledge should be our primary professional development objective.
As a leader, my key message I give my team is that it is critical that they “invest in themselves” by engaging in the most suitable professional development for themselves and their role.
We have many managers who have achieved the Chartered Management Institute chartered manager status, and others who have become chartered financial planners or certified financial planners, among other qualifications.
