I mentioned a few weeks ago that next year the GOC are introducing a one year CET cycle and will then resume the three year cycle period from the start of 2020. This is to ensure that any changes to modalities and the nature of CET will have time to be introduced in a more orderly fashion than in previous cycles.
As part of this process, the GOC have just launched ‘a consultation to understand how to develop the current system of Continuing Education and Training (CET) so it is fit for the future.’ The aim is, they state, to encourage professionals (so all of you) to offer views regarding what a good CET programme should involve.
‘This may for example mean more emphasis on self-directed learning, whereby optical professionals are given more flexibility to focus on developing skills that are most relevant to their individual needs. It could also mean a greater emphasis on critical thinking skills and improving future performance by analysing previous experiences.’
This is a useful opportunity for us all to influence the future. In previous years, many have raised concerns about the level of CET required and also its relevance to the actual roles we have in our working practice. I was supportive of the introduction of interactivity and am pleased to hear from most colleagues that discussion is often the best way to learn and to influence how we work and keep up to date. Without sounding too flippant, I have always learned more in the pub afterwards than during any lecture or seminar.
An increased focus on individual needs of each registrant seems a useful step forward. I have proposed the use of formal case studies with some background reading as a potential new modality. These case studies are increasingly popular among our readers (and we publish many). Having them formally acknowledged as evidence of acquired learning would seem sensible.