What is a progress file and how does it relate to PDP?

• A progress file is required for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.It consists of a transcript of learning and achievement plus evidence of the individual's personal records of PDP in career, academic and personal contexts.
• "Personal Development Planning is a structured and supported process undertaken by an individual to reflect upon their own learning, performance and/or achievement." (QAA Guidelines for Personal Development Planning, 2009)

Why should a School at Queen's engage with PDP?

• It is a QAA requirement that the Transcript element of Progress Files was in place by 2002/03. This has been available through Queen's Online since June 2002. The PDP element should be "operational across the whole HE system and for all HE awards by 2005/06."
• It can contribute to an overall strategy to promote retention and progression.
• It can provide a basis for more personally relevant student progress monitoring.
• It can contribute to increased graduate employablility by improving the students ability to relate their own learning and achievements to employers interests and needs.

What are the benefits for employers?

• “Overall, employers emphasised that PDP skills learnt by students in their undergraduate years are crucial (and indeed the first concrete step) for lifelong learning, management of their own careers and to enable the widest possible contribution to performance improvement in organisations.” Edwards, Gordon (2005). HE Academy, “Connecting PDP to Employer needs and the world of work" (Word).

What are the features of an effective PDP systems?

• It is supported by staff
• It integrated with programme delivery systems/specifications
• It encourages student motivation by linking current activities to short, medium and long term career, educational and personal goals.
• It is supported by an easily accessible information and recording system (e.g. the e-portfolio and academic and career development planner in Myfuture - this is provided to all students at registration and enrolment)

Who is responsible for PDP?

• Each student is ultimately responsible for their own PDP, but the University/Schools should provide opportunities and support for students in order to facilitate engagement.