Table 1.

The phases, processes and learning skills in the CPD cycle.

Phase	Process	Active Learning Skills
Reflect	What do you know, what do you have to find out/learn about. (Record your answers on template provided)	Critical thinking, self-appraisal
Plan	Where will you go to find the information; how will it be accessed, gathered, recorded. (Record answers on template provided)	Develop learning objectives
Act	Gather information and expand or summarise as needed. (Record answers on template provided). Formally respond to requests for information. For educational materials, use appropriate understandable language to address needs of professionals or the public.	Synthesise information to create resources
Evaluate	What are the most important things you have learned as a result of these activities? How could your learning assist in future practice as a pharmacist? What was the most difficult part of the process? Do you feel confident you could repeat the process in a different setting? Can this be shared with other colleagues? How? (Record answers on template provided).	Critical thinking: evaluate and analyse effectiveness of learning activities
Feedback: Working with a fellow student, obtain and give feedback on your portfolios and learning materials. This provides an opportunity to see the approach of others