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Congress 2002
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
CPD finally came into effect in April and we all now have to earn 50 points each year in order to remain registered with the HPSCA. In anticipation of this, during March I visited most of the main centres to host breakfast meetings. The aims of these were, firstly, to kick-start regional meetings as last year one of the main requests from members was for regional CPD activities. Secondly, to inform members of the CPD activities that PsySSA already has planned, and thirdly, and most importantly, to get input from you as to the type of CPD activities you would like, as well as to answer any queries you had regarding CPD. We were fortunate in this regard to have present at most of the meetings the Chair of the Professional Board for Psychology, Dr Saths Cooper, so that members could address their queries directly to him.
I always enjoy meeting members and, as previously, I found the input and exchange of ideas stimulating and of great value. PsySSA has already started implementing a number of your ideas and requests.
As you know by now (following the CPD document we all received from the Board) there are three main areas within which you can earn CPD points, namely individual, small group (between 5-50 participants), and large group (>50 participants) activities. PsySSA will be providing membership activities in each of these areas. Let me briefly elaborate.
Individual CPD Activities
All members receive a copy of the SAJP as part of their membership package. The SAJP is currently the only psychology journal with CPD accreditation and members receive 6 points annually just for subscribing to the journal. In addition, a question and answer form will be included in future copies of the journal and members will receive up to 3 points per issue for completing this correctly. This means that up to 18 points a year can be earned just through the SAJP. We are also exploring other individual activities, such as internet courses, and would welcome your ideas and suggestions in this regard.
Small Group CPD Activities
Regional meetings are being arranged in all the main centres. In most centres, members have requested bi-monthly meetings: a breakfast and an evening meeting. These meetings will include invited speakers, case studies, journal article reviews, peer/group supervision, and so on. One point per hour will be awarded and there will be no charge for the activity (although members may choose to pay for refreshments). The meetings will be held at least during February to November each year, so you can earn between 10 to 20 points in this way, depending on whether meetings are held once or twice a month.
Large Group Activities
PsySSA's main activity in this area is the Annual South African Psychology Congress, which includes Congress workshops. I would like to encourage those of you who attend Congress to "work the system", as by doing so it is possible to earn virtually all your CPD points during this four-day period, while networking and otherwise enjoying yourself. At least 20 points are earned for attending the Congress. Attending the Congress workshops will earn you further points, and if you present you will gain yet more points. For example, I earned 40 points at Congress last year through attendance, making a presentation, and attending workshops.
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National Workshops
PsySSA will also be running national workshops during the year and, at your request, those already being planned will include ethics, forensic psychology, and neuropsychology. As always, we need your suggestions for future workshops.
As a service to you a record of your CPD points, earned through PsySSA activities (PsySSA is the largest and longest life-long psychology education and training provider), is posted on the website so that you can check your CPD status at any time. The CPD points you have already earned, and which you will carry forward into the first CPD cycle, are also detailed on the website.
Please let us know if there are any other activities you would like us to implement - and keep the ideas and feedback coming.
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