Finding Online CPD Events vs. Courses (Understanding the Difference)

Understanding the Difference Between Courses and CPD Events

Members sometimes refer to online CPD events as “online courses,” but these are two different types of learning on LIA Elevate. Understanding the difference helps you find the right type of CPD activity.

Online Courses (Programmes / Modules)

• Longer learning programmes

• Usually several hours or multiple modules

• Do not automatically correspond to 1 CPD hour

• Not categorised under CPD types (e.g., Category 1 Life Assurance)

Online CPD Events (Webinars / On-Demand Sessions)

• Typically 1 hour in duration

• Linked to specific CPD categories (e.g., Category 1: Life Assurance)

• Delivered live and then available on-demand

• Designed specifically for CPD compliance

If You’re Looking for 1 CPD Hour in a specific area

If a member asks for:

• “an online course for 1 CPD hour ”

• “a course that gives me 1 hour in a particular category”

• “a course for life assurance CPD”

…the correct recommendation is not a course.

Instead, direct them to the CPD Events currently available in the LIA members Area, selecting LIA Elevate from the top banner. 

This ensures they complete a 1-hour CPD event, not a course programme.

Where to Find CPD Events

You can find all online CPD events here:

• Log in to the Members area 

• Navigate to  LIA Elevate on top banner, selecting Browse or Buy option

• Use the filter available to source the events in various categories of accreditation. 

Here you will see:

• Upcoming live events

• Available on-demand sessions (if recording permitted)

AI Bot Guidance (For Intent Confusion)

If a member uses the word “course” but is looking for 1 hour of CPD, the correct interpretation is:

➡️ They are looking for a 1-hour CPD event, not a course.

The AI bot should prioritise:

• Events, not courses

• CPD Event listings on LIA Elevate

• The difference between courses and CPD hours