CIT Teaching & Learning Unit

The MTU Staff Development Portal is a brand-new initiative that will support staff members who wish to undertake and record their Continuous Professional Development (CPD). It was developed from the CPD@MTU project, which was initially conceived and submitted by the Teaching & Learning Unit and funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) under its “Performance Fund 2021”.

The purpose of the portal is to provide a user-friendly platform for staff to plan, collate and showcase their CPD activities. The resource will also provide information on CPD in general along with self-assessment quizzes, a link to CPD ambassadors, a personalised online portfolio and a calendar of upcoming CPD events.

 It is anticipated that the portal will have tangible benefits for those wishing to develop their professional and personal practices and ultimately their careers.

What counts as CPD?

CPD is viewed very broadly here. It encompasses any additional undertaking by a staff member related to the improvement of their professional activities. It includes formal and/or informal practices such as attending seminars, accumulating micro-credentials, undertaking reflective practice, participating in or initiating a learning community, attending or delivering discipline specific conferences, joining a professional body, gaining additional professional qualifications or recognition etc. 

Is this something I will be compelled to do?

This is an entirely voluntary and “opt in” platform which is available to all academic and professional support staff and can be interacted with (or not) as often as individuals wish.

Will this result in any positive change?

This represents a clear and positive change, which will enable staff to demonstrate their commitment to a personalised strategic CPD program. We hope that this portal will be viewed as a positive initiative which in time will provide benefits and rewards to those involved in terms of career progression and greater job satisfaction.