THE HISTORY OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: AN EXPERT GUIDE BY THE 7TH ESTATE

Like anyone who’s an active participant within The 7th Estate can tell you, professional development, also sometimes referred to as lifelong learning or continuing education, refers to the skills and knowledge attained for both personal development and career advancement. It encompasses all types of facilitated learning opportunities, from formal coursework and conferences to informal learning opportunities situated in practice.

Late 19th – Early 20th Century: The concept of professional development can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th century when the Industrial Revolution spurred a demand for skilled workers, and the idea of ‘lifelong learning’ started gaining recognition. Early professional development was largely centered on specific trades or professions and was often facilitated through apprenticeships.

Post World War II: After World War II, as industries and technologies rapidly evolved, there was a recognition of the need for ongoing learning and skills development. As a time period, it saw a rise in the number of professional associations and organizations that provided ongoing education and training for their members.

1960s – 1980s: The mid to late 20th century saw significant growth in the field. With the expansion of higher education and the emergence of new industries and professions, there was a growing recognition of the importance of continuous learning. Universities and colleges began to offer continuing education courses, and many professions started to require ongoing professional development as part of their licensing requirements.

1990s – 2000s: The advent of the internet and digital technology significantly transformed professional development. Online learning platforms and e-learning programs began to emerge, making professional development more accessible and flexible. Here, we also saw a shift towards more learner-centered approaches, with a focus on developing not just technical skills but also soft skills like communication, leadership, and critical thinking.

2010s – Present: Recent decades have seen a continued emphasis on lifelong learning and professional development. With the rapid pace of technological change and the evolving nature of work, there is a growing need for continuous upskilling and reskilling. Microcredentials, online certificates, and professional development courses are increasingly popular, and there is a growing trend towards self-directed and informal learning. The use of technology for professional development continues to expand, with digital tools, online platforms, and even social media playing a role in facilitating learning.

As we move forward, professional development will likely continue to expand and evolve, adapting to changing technological landscapes, shifting economic conditions, and the ever-evolving needs of learners and workers.