Welcome to CPD Online.

Mobile information technology has become a familiar aspect of modern life. Readers will not be surprised to hear I drafted this piece on my laptop, enjoying the comforts of home, at a time of my choosing, and apart from an inquisitive cat, relatively undisturbed.

Accessing the World Wide Web for information was initially described as ‘Surfing the Net’. With the explosion of stuff available from many and various sources, a more accurate maritime verb might now be trawling or even dredging to describe the risk of pulling up a lot of material of dubious quality.

By contrast, CPD Online is pleased to provide learning activities in the form of both modules and podcasts produced with the needs of trained psychiatrists in mind. They are written largely by our expert members, both psychiatric and psychological, but also with input of other health professionals. In addition, all our modules are scrutinised by peers who consider both the accuracy of the content and the quality of educational experience provided. 

As well as generating a certificate to confirm that the final quiz has successfully been completed, we are now also encouraging the learner to print off the ‘take-home notes’ at the outset. Thereby our learners can write reflective comments to personalise key points, plan to change their practice, or explore the topic further where relevant.

We are pleased to report that our numbers of subscribers, activities and certificates issued continue to rise steadily, confirming that discerning psychiatrists and their employers are keen to sign up for high-quality, independently produced educational activities.

Dr Liz Hare

Editor, CPD Online