AN INTRODUCTION TO PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

FOR POSTGRADUATES

PDP is. . .

• A set of actions that help you to reflect, plan, discuss and evaluate your learning;

• An ongoing accumulation of evidence of your learning in a variety of formats;

• A process whereby you gain confidence in your own skills and abilities;

It is important to remember that PDP is owned by YOU, not the University

PDP helps by . . .• Providing opportunities that allow you to gain the most from your

course;

• Supporting your academic, personal and career planning;

• Showing you how to take control over your learning;

• At its core, it is about

– Reflecting – Recording – Planning– Taking action

Why PDP . . .?

Improved performance – building upon the learning and results achieved– identify areas of strength and those that require

development– set and work towards your academic goals

Improved Personal development– identify opportunities for personal development both

inside and outside the curriculum– build self-esteem and confidence

Why PDP . . .?

Improved Employability– Helps devise and implement a personal career plan– Prepares for employment – employers expect more

than just a degree – Develops transferable skills– Builds an impressive CV– Prepares for professional practice– Helps promote lifelong learning.

Electronic Forms for Supervisors and Advisors of Studies

• Provides a focus for the agenda of meetings

• Allows students to take the initiative in structuring discussions at meetings

• Can embrace key elements of planning, monitoring, evaluating, and providing feedback both in relation to your current topic of study and future work

PDP – some advantages . . .

• Impacts on your developing skills;• Helps you to monitor and manage your

progress. • Helps you set short-term and intermediate

goals so that learning is broken into manageable blocks;

PDP & CPD

• Already involved in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through your professional body?

• PDP complements and enhances CPD• PACE is ‘life long’ accessible ie it can be updated

after you have completed your studies

Professional And Career Enhancement (PACE) system

• Online student and graduate employability system

• Supports the recording of PDP activity. • Provides 'single place' to collect records of

your personal development planning• Accessible via the portal

PACE - Homepage

PACEKey Features: • Online Application facilitating PDP• Build a detailed portfolio of your skills, experiences and

achievements • Set your goals and plan how you are going to achieve these• Download programme specific files, including multimedia• Build multiple CV’s and job applications• Create and share your e-portfolio with employers and academics• Communicate with your Programme Team • Access your exam results• Carry out skills audits

Examination Results

Skills Assessment

CV Builder

E-Portfolios

Manage Meetings

Personal Development Planning

How Do You Participate?

• PDP is youryour responsibility but your tutors or studies advisers will provide support.