Evaluating Methodologies for Determining Value of Continuing Professional Development Outcomes in Public Sector: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis

Introduction: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the performance of public sector employees, ensuring they remain up-to-date with evolving practices and contribute effectively to their organizations. Within this context, the effectiveness of CPD programmes hinges on the rigorous determination of their outcomes. This study seeks to answer the main question, titled: How to evaluate methods that determine the value of CPD outcomes in the public sector?
Methods: Using a qualitative synthesis evidence, this study aims to explore and synthesize existing literature on methodologies for determining the value of CPD outcomes in the public sector. Eligibility criteria will include peer-reviewed articles and reports focusing on CPD programs in public sector settings and methodologies for assessing their outcomes from 2013 to 2023. Initial screening will involve title and abstract reviews, followed by full-text assessments of potentially relevant studies. The review integrates PRISMA guidelines for comprehensive reporting and utilizes the COREQ Checklist to assess study quality. The review will synthesize and analyze data extracted from selected studies, identifying various methodologies and measurement tools used to assess CPD outcomes, presenting their strengths, limitations, and the contexts in which they are employed. Furthermore, using the COSTAQDA, a cloud-based qualitative data analysis software, articles will be assessed for performance and impact.
Expected Results: Determining CPD outcomes is a critical aspect of understanding the effectiveness of CPD programmes. By examining existing methodologies, this QES will provide valuable insights into the best practices for assessing CPD impact in public sector contexts. The outcomes of this review will lay a solid foundation for the subsequent development of a comprehensive framework for evaluating CPD impact on public sector employee performance in South Africa.