            
|
Benefits of the Professional Development Portfolio
Variety of learning activities acceptable
The array of continuing professional education activities that are accepted will be expanded in June 2001. This variety of acceptable learning activities potentially benefits certified professionals in three ways:
- Each of us has a unique preference for the way we learn. The Portfolio embraces this diversity of learning style preferences. Several new activities have been added including professional leadership, sponsored independent learning (e.g. mentoring relationships), and reading from professional journals. So, whether you learn best by listening, reading, observing, or participating, your preferred style of learning is accepted.
- This expansion of acceptable activities also may decrease the cost for professionals. Practitioners who currently rely on conferences -- with direct costs for registration fee, travel. lodging, and food costs and indirect costs for time out of the office and away from family -- may be able to save money by choosing some less-formal, independent learning activities.
- In addition, less formal, independent learning activities may be more convenient options for those not located in areas with easy access to metropolitan areas -- where most major conferences are held.
Multiple Uses
In addition to meeting the recertification requirements of CDR, the Portfolio has multiple other uses.
- Meeting Joint Commission Competence Assessment Standards
The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) has Management of Human Resources standards regarding competence assessment and development. The Portfolio steps of reflection and learning needs assessment, learning plan development, self-evaluation of learning plan objectives, and application of learning are consistent with the intent of these standards.
In fact, in some cases, a facility's process established to meet JCAHO standards may be approved as the reflection and learning needs assessment step of the recertification model. Conversely, dietetics staff likely could use documentation of the CDR system to meet Joint Commission standards, thus preventing a duplication of efforts.
- Meeting Licensure Requirements
Many state licensure boards require dietetics professionals to earn continuing education to maintain licensure. Licensed professionals can use continuing professional education units for both licensure and CDR recertification.
CDR has ongoing communications with licensure boards to encourage their adoption of the Portfolio, where possible. However, it remains the responsibility of individual professionals to verify that the activities engaged in meet the requirements of both CDR and the state licensing board.
- Tool for Career Development
Because learning and development are a continual part of professional life, a portfolio remains useful throughout your career. Keeping copies of your completed Portfolio forms can help you demonstrate the paths you have taken and assist you in determining future growth and career directions.
Additionally, it can provide support when you are applying for a new position by helping you to create a resume or enhance an existing one. This is particularly important in the current health care environment where an ability to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and growth is very attractive to present and future employers.
|
