‘It is not sufficient simply to have an experience in order to learn. Without reflecting upon this experience it may quickly be forgotten, or its learning potential lost. It is from the feelings and thoughts emerging from this reflection that generalisations or concepts can be generated. And it is generalisations that allow new situations to be tackled effectively.’ (Gibbs 1988)
You can use the TOPRA CPD tool to reflect on the continuous professional development activities you have completed. You can reflect on the individual activities you have completed but you can also reflect on how your performance, knowledge, skills and behaviours compare to the TOPRA competencies to identify ways to improve and develop. To record this broader reflection simply enter it as self-directed learning.
Reflect on:
- What have you learnt?
- Why are you learning it?
- How you are using what you are learning, how does this improve your professional practice?
- What are the benefits for the users of your work?
- How can you continue to improve and build on your learning?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What are your learning priorities