CPD learning activities
Learning activities allow for the development of new or existing competencies in areas that are relevant to a member’s overall professional responsibilities and growth. Any learning and development that is relevant and appropriate to a member’s work, professional responsibilities, and growth as a CPA will qualify for CPD.
As every position has different requirements, each member must determine whether the content of a learning activity contributes to his/her professional development. CPA Alberta does not pre-determine how much CPD is gained at an activity, nor does the organization pre-determine what qualifies as CPD for each individual CPA.
Activities not considered as a learning activity are those activities that do not relate directly to your current professional role and/or long-term career interests. Some of the activities that, in most cases, would not relate directly to a professional role and responsibilities, may include yoga, fitness programs or art classes.
When making this determination the following five questions should be asked:
- Did you learn something while doing this activity?
- Does the learning activity contain significant intellectual or practical content?
- Is the learning activity directly related to the competencies needed to continue your employment or practice?
- Is the learning activity relevant to your current professional needs and/or long-term career interests?
- Is the learning activity quantifiable (expressed in terms of a specific time range)?
If the answer to all questions is yes, then the activity may meet the criteria of a learning activity.
How Do I Calculate My Hours?
If the course is an eligible learning activity, the number of hours eligible must be determined. Remember you can only claim those hours that are new learning.
Example: A session that runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a 30 minute lunch would equal 7 hours of course time. Networking at lunch is not considered a learning activity. In some cases, you may have some prior knowledge of the course material, and would not be able to claim the full 7 hours of the course. You would deduct the amount of time where the material you were already familiar with was presented. Not everyone attending the same session will have the same amount of hours to claim.
Back to CPD Reporting Home Page