INF 305 Professional Learning and Networking
Continuing Professional Development Statement (CPD)
Continuing professional development (CPD) is an essential component of an information professional’s working life as espoused by Crockett (2007) where she contends that continuing professional development is a “necessary part of our working lives” (p. 77). Crockett argues that continuing professional development offers not only the ability to update skills and be mindful of current trends in the industry, but also offers an opportunity to broaden knowledge, skills and competency. As new technological trends and improved connectivity enable more flexible and faster communications it is imperative that information professionals upskill regularly in their technical skills to ensure that they are competent in using new technologies and their applications (Aslam, (2017, p.2). Indeed, GLAMR organisations require staff to be current and skilled across their organisations as the information landscape is competitive, evolving rapidly compounded by higher expectations by users to access and discover information instantly.
Continuing career development is essential for promotion and choice in regard to employment opportunities available in the GLAMR sector, which are competitive in the current financial environment characterised by reduced funding for cultural institutions. As an information professional you are responsible for your own learning to ensure you are providing the best services and information for your community. Continuing professional development encapsulates the concept of life-long learning, essential for the intellectual growth of human beings. An important part of continuing professional development is to identify strengths and weaknesses in your skill sets and abilities so that you may target your professional learning activities to improve the skills that are required to support your career and future ambitions (Brine, 2005, pp.13-14)).
Continuing professional development creates many benefits, including professional networking opportunities to develop industry networks that enhance collaboration, learning, engagement and employment opportunities.
References
Aslam, M. (2017). Professional Development and Networking for Academic Librarians. International Research : Journal of Library and Information Science, 7(1) https://ezproxy.csu.edu.au/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/professional-development-networking-academic/docview/1923720347/se-2
Brine, A. (2005). Continuing professional development : a guide for information professionals. Chandos Publishing.
Crockett, M. (2007). Continuing Professional Development and the hallmarks of professionalism: An overview of the current environment for the record-keeping profession1. Journal of the Society of Archivists, 28(1), 77–102. https://doi.org/10.1080/00379810701376621