Taking CPE courses has long been a simple point of professional life for those who choose to be doctors, lawyers, and accountants, but because of the ever-changing world we live in these days it is now required of practically everyone from teachers and social workers to even private fitness trainers!
In general, from a “bird’s-eye-view/big-picture” viewpoint, it is a good thing that the spirit of continuing education has permeated so many fields.
However, what could CPE courses do for personal trainers or, even, social workers?
Regarding the former, it is controversial that scientific discoveries happen regularly, new knowledge which should be incorporated into any exercise regimen.
While this is true in the abstract, in reality the fact of the
matter is that simple time-tested movements like the biceps curl will not change – ever.
And it is precisely such fundamental physical fitness protocols that comprise the overwhelming great majority of what most personal trainers do on a regular basis with their clients.
Needing CPE courses of them sounds amazing in theory but it is in practice just for show.
It is probably also unneeded for a occupation like social work, though this is certainly a much more controversial idea.
But let’s revisit the original motivation for continuing professional education – what is the point?
In the case of medicine, scientific discoveries do in fact impact on healthcare.
Where the law is involved, changing politics will make for changed rules and regulations.
Same thing with accounting and taxes.
But social work?
How many new solutions to counsel a drug addict (or homeless person, or single mom, or juvenile delinquent, et cetera) could there be?
Needless to say, there are many reasons why the profession of social work feels a need for continuing education.
But unlike with the original professions, it is improbable that these causes have the sort of impact they would when it comes to doctors, lawyers, and accountants.
After all, a social worker is no longer not able to serve since he or she is unaware of the latest thinking in the field, whereas doctors, lawyers, and accountants could be irrelevant literally overnight if they did not keep up with current advancements!
