CPD
e-CPD
e-CPD courses at the RVC allow veterinarians from around the world to participate in interactive and in depth online learning. The courses offered cover a range of topics relevant to companion animal, farm animal and equine clinical practice – many old favourites which we have offered for several years, as well as some exciting new courses. The courses are moderated by expert clinical staff. Depending on the course topic, they consist of a mixture of case presentations and assessment, radiographs, downloadable reference sources (notes, text book references and relevant journal articles), quizzes, weblinks and online asynchronous discussions.
There is no need to log on at any particular time of the day or night so the courses can be completed in your own time. However, you do need to be able to spend at least six hours each week on the course and log on several times throughout each week to get maximum benefit. There are tasks to complete each week and usually deadlines to meet midweek and at the end of the week. For each e-CPD course veterinarians can earn up to 36 hours formal CPD and another 10 hours informal CPD as permitted by the RCVS. Nurses can earn up to 33 CPD hours. This means that you can exceed your yearly CPD requirement in one course! At a cost of less than £20 per CPD hour they are one of the most cost effective independent CPD forums in the UK.
The courses are internet based so no special software or computer skills are required – you don’t have to be a computer geek to enjoy and participate fully! The unique feature of the RVC e-CPD courses is that they are much more than just an online information delivery mechanism. Interactive activities occur throughout the course, tutor input is extensive and integral to the participants’ learning, and veterinarians can share their clinical experiences with, and learn from, a diverse group of colleagues. Veterinarians and veterinary nurses participate from all parts of the UK and abroad including Australia, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Dubai, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Trinidad, the United Arab Emirates and the USA.
The format of e-CPD is not for everyone. They do not suit everyone’s learning preferences, they require commitment and self discipline and they can be challenging to fit into a busy life. You also have to make your own coffee. But for those who like to learn at their own pace, at times convenient to their work, family and social life, have time to reflect on their learning, be part of an active discussion forum, have the flexibility to explore topics in greater depth or simply if you wish to avoid having to travel and be away from home or work to participate in CPD, e-CPD is an ideal CPD format. Course numbers are limited to enhance participants’ learning experience and most courses are usually fully booked. So it is wise to book early to avoid disappointment.
What past participants said about RVC e-CPD courses .....
“I prefer e-CPD since I feel that I retain more than from day sessions. Not having to travel and to be able to manage your own timetable is another plus.”
“Worth every penny.”
“Much prefer (e-CPD). I like the interactive nature and having to read and understand things, not just listen. The discussion boards for this course were fantastic.”
“I learnt far more than I would in lecture/seminar.”
“I have really enjoyed the course, it has made me think LOTS and changed the way I approach my cases.”
“I have seldom so much enjoyed doing CPD! The interactive and peer based method you apply really works for me. The course has been very well conceived and executed.”
“Better, brighter, and altogether shinier in every way...You have to engage with it actively, and therefore don't fall asleep over it, and therefore haven't wasted your hard-earned money on it. You don't have to waste hours travelling, or spend time in hotels you'd rather spend walking the dog or talking to your family. You don't have any hassle attached to it, such as finding someone to look after the dog, the cats, and the hens while you're away... or swapping work or worse, losing work. And perhaps most importantly, you not only have access to One Who Knows and can therefore answer all those questions that never get answered during the traditional lecture format, but you can go over the materials several times before asking your questions. Even if you're not the kind of person who views conferences primarily as a social occasion, the amount learnt there does not even begin to compare to the amount learnt here. As I said... better, brighter, shinier...”
“This peer based/derived learning was so refreshing and amazing and well managed/guided.”
“When you compare the price per CPD point with other CPD courses, this course was excellent value for money.”
“Great for me with young family as does not involve travelling and time away. Also being able to work through things at your own pace, and go back to problems, means that I gain far more than just being bombarded with several hours of lectures. Loved interaction between other delegates on the discussion board.”
“Learn so much more than just sitting listening to lectures”
“The convenience of doing CPD at a time that suits me & in the comfort of my own home.”
“It is a much better way to learn as you put everything into practice during your working day and consolidate things well over the weeks.”
“I find it a much more flexible way to learn. I can study at my own pace and review ant areas as much as I want before moving on to new sections.”
“More flexible, easier to fit in around a very busy work and home life”
“Surprisingly easy for someone who is not very computer literate!”
“I hadn't realised how much practical teaching would be provided online and was really impressed at the level and quality of this”
“It is of great value since we can participate without having to travel and this creates more opportunity to share experiences with colleagues of every part of the world and the
geographical site of working makes a lot of difference of practices and cases experienced.”
