CPL Program FAQs for Members

If you become a member of th​e College on or after September 1, 2016, you are required to begin the CPL program by completing step one of the CPL program, the Expectations for Practice Module 2016, in the first year of your membership with the College. After your first renewal, you are required to start step two, the CPL Portfolio Cycle.​ 

The first step of the program, the Expectations for Practice Module 2016, is an online module. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete and is available free of charge on the College website. You may start and stop this module as many times as you like.

The second step of the program, the CPL Portfolio Cycle, runs in two-year repeating cycles. The portfolio process is self-directed and every member will complete the components, engage in professional learning activities and document their learning at their own pace.

To support you in planning your time over the course of the two-year cycle, refer to the recommended monthly timelines below.​

The CPL Portfolio is comprised of three required components:

1. Self- Assessment Tool
2. Professional Learning Plan
3. Record of Professional Learning

The purpose of the CPL Portfolio is to ensure RECEs reflect on their practice and plan for, engage in and document professional learning experiences linked to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. All RECEs, regardless of employment status or title, must complete the CPL Portfolio components. The CPL Portfolio aims to:

• facilitate self-reflection
• support practical and useful goal development
• promote self-directed learning activities
• support an increased understanding and application of the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
• improve and strengthen the professional practice of RECEs. ​

Yes. The CPL Portfolio is different than the professional portfolio you may already maintain. You may find it helpful to keep your CPL Portfolio records as part of your broader professional portfolio, if you have one.

The CPL Portfolio does not require members to complete a specific number of professional learning hours or activities. Completing the CPL Portfolio is a self-directed, self-reflective ongoing learning process. It is up to you to decide the types of learning activities to engage in and how much time you require in order to achieve the goals you have determined in your Self-Assessment Tool.

You should follow the suggested timelines from the College that are based on your individual renewal date. For example, you should start the portfolio in the month of your renewal. Your participation in the CPL Portfolio Cycle will be monitored by the College based on your individual membership renewal date.

You will be mailed a copy of the CPL Portfolio Cycle Handbook and components in your renewal package after you renew your membership on or after September 1, 2017. Additional CPL resources are available on our website.  

The College is aware that RECEs are committed to ongoing professional learning, and many already participate in learning activities on a regular basis. The CPL program was developed with this in mind and provides a framework that complements and formalizes ongoing professional learning activities by connecting learning to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice that is essential to the practice of all RECEs. 

In many cases you will be able to use the learning opportunities available through your employer or in your community to meet the goals you set for yourself.

No. You are not required by the College to submit or share your CPL program records with your employer. You may choose to keep your CPL program records confidential. Engaging in the CPL program is a requirement of your membership with the College.

In some cases, employers may integrate aspects of the CPL program into performance management processes. You are welcome to share and collaborate with your employer in order to complete the requirements of the program.

Yes. The CPL program is mandatory for all members of the College. Whether you are a new or renewing member, you are required to participate in the program. Members who do not comply could have their Certificate of Registration suspended by the Registrar of the College for non-compliance with the CPL program.

For more information on compliance with the CPL program, review the Notice of CPL Program Requirements. 

If, due to extenuating circumstances, you are unable to meet the CPL program requirements for your current membership year, you may request a deferral. Members should submit requests for deferrals , along with relevant supporting documentation, as soon as extenuating circumstances arise. In order for a request for deferral to be granted, you must demonstrate that your extenuating circumstances significantly affect your ability to comply with the CPL program.

As regulated professionals, all RECEs, including those who are retired, working outside the scope of practice or currently unemployed, will be required to participate in all components of the CPL program.

Although you may not be practising, as an RECE you still hold the title and designation, which means that you have made a commitment to abide by the professional and ethical standards of the profession and are accountable to the public. Members of the public need to be assured that all RECEs are current in their knowledge and practice and are upholding the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

The College website provides the most current and up-to-date information about the CPL program and resources to support your participation. 

Please check out the website here .

You can also contact the Professional Practice Department by email at cpl@college-ece.ca or by telephone at 1 888 961-8558 ext.803 for more information.​​