Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is CPD?
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Architects is any activity that enhances the professional knowledge and personal skills needed for the advancement of architecture, society and the environment.
Key requirements of CPD for Architects are that an activity:
- relates to the practice of architecture but is not an activity undertaken in the normal course of practice
- has stated learning outcomes/objectives, demonstrating that the primary purpose of the activity is educational
- relates to at least one of the National Competency Standards for Architecture: Design, Documentation, Project Management, Practice Management.
2. What are the competency standards?
The National Competency Standards in Architecture (NCSA) is a document published by The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) setting out the benchmark standards of competency for registration as an Architect in Australia and New Zealand.
The NCSA can be found under publications at www.aaca.org.au
3. Is CPD compulsory for Architects?
CPD is compulsory in WA, NSW, QLD and Tasmania. It is expected to soon become compulsory for Architects in other states in Australia. CPD is also compulsory for A+ members of the Australian Institute of Architects. Architects are advised to do CPD to continually develop their professional skills and knowledge within the industry.
4. Should providers maintain records of attendance?
Architects are required to manage their own CPD records. The Institute provides a sample CPD record form for members, available for download here. However, CPD providers must also maintain records of attendance for each CPD activity.
5. How long should a CPD provider maintain records
You must maintain records relating to each CPD activity for a period of five years.
6. Are CPD points recognised Australia-wide?
Yes. The Institute allocates points to activities in alignment with the requirements of its own policy and policies/guidelines of other registration bodies.
7. Are providers allowed to use the Australian Institute of Architects corporate logo?
No. All Refuel CPD Provider Network members are supplied with Refuel CPD Provider Network logos and CPD points badges for use on marketing materials. Marketing materials must accurately advertise the program length, CPD points available, learning objectives and any costs associated with the program.
8. How are points allocated?
Points are allocated on the basis of one (1) point for every hour of involvement for both formal and informal activities.
In some cases, limits have been applied to the number of points that can be allocated to a single activity. While these tend to apply to less structured-generally informal-activities such as reading or attending meetings, some formal CPD activities also have limits.
Points can only be allocated to the educational components of an event: refreshment breaks, registration, drinks/networking sessions and the like, do not accrue points.
9. What is Refuel?
Refuel is the Australian Institute of Architects brand for continuing professional development. Refuel was launched in 2005 and is recognised nationally by members of the Institute as providing quality CPD.
10. What is Formal and Informal CPD?
CPD activities are defined as formal or informal. Formal activities require some form of assessment or evidence of significant interaction between the presenter and attendee as part of the activity.
11. Is assessment compulsory?
No. Most commonly a CPD activity that does not include assessment or significant interaction between the presenter and attendee will attain informal CPD points.
12. Can I provide online CPD?
Yes. CPD can be delivered in a number of ways. For example the Institute delivers both face-to-face programs in chapter offices and online CPD via continuum.com.au
13. How are CPD Providers' activities promoted?
Promotion of activities within the Australian Institute of Architects Refuel CPD Provider Network is coordinated nationally. Recognised activities will be listed on the Australian Institute of Architects website and included in local promotions via Institute chapters.
14. How do I join the Refuel CPD Provider Network?
Once you have read all the information and understand the AACA/Institute joint policy on CPD as well as the Memorandum of Understanding, you may submit the application form for the Refuel CPD Provider Network.
If you have any further questions regarding the form please don't hesitate to ask. Telephone Knowledge Services at the Institute on 03 8620 3877 or email knowledge@architecture.com.au |
