The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management or Strategic Learning & Development is a prestigious qualification designed for experienced HR and L&D professionals aiming for senior leadership roles. This advanced diploma demands a high level of critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to apply strategic concepts to real-world organizational challenges. Successfully completing this level requires dedication, effective study strategies, and leveraging available support resources.
Understanding CIPD Level 7
What to Expect
CIPD Level 7 courses typically include a range of modules focusing on high-level HR and business strategies. These modules often cover areas such as strategic people management, organizational design and development, leadership, and business research in people practice. The qualification prepares individuals for Chartered Membership of the CIPD, enhancing their personal effectiveness and business acumen.
Key Challenges
Students pursuing CIPD Level 7 often face several challenges:
- Time Management: Many students study part-time alongside full-time work, making effective time management crucial .
- Critical Analysis: A significant transition for Level 7 students is moving from descriptive writing to a more critical, analytical approach. This involves evaluating strengths and weaknesses of theories and assignments rather than just defining them .
- Business Research Project: The 7CO04 Business Research in People Practice module requires students to define a research issue, conduct research, and produce a comprehensive report . This often involves developing an approved research proposal and executing a research project.
Effective Study Strategies
To navigate the complexities of CIPD Level 7 successfully, consider adopting the following study strategies:
1. Master Time Management
- The 15-Minute Formula: Break down study sessions into manageable 15-minute chunks. This can help in fitting study around a busy schedule, such as reading during breakfast or commutes .
- Chunking: Divide larger topics or assignments into smaller, more digestible parts to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Consistent Schedule: Establish a regular study routine and stick to it as much as possible. Even short, consistent periods of study are more effective than sporadic long sessions.
2. Develop Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
- Descriptive vs. Critical Writing: Understand the fundamental difference between merely describing a concept and critically analyzing it. Critical analysis involves questioning, evaluating, and synthesizing information, presenting arguments, and supporting them with evidence .
- PEEL Technique: Utilize the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) paragraph technique to structure your arguments effectively. This ensures each paragraph demonstrates critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and logical structure .
- Practice Evaluation: When reading, actively question the material. What are its strengths and weaknesses? How does it apply to different contexts? What are the underlying assumptions?
3. Leverage Available Resources
- CIPD Community: Engage with the CIPD community through online forums, branch events, and social media groups. This provides a platform to connect with peers, share insights, and seek advice .
- Study Resources: The CIPD website offers dedicated resources for Level 7 Advanced Diploma students, including guides and articles .
- Academic Databases: Utilize academic databases and journals for in-depth research, especially for the business research project.
- Textbooks and Journals: Arm yourself with relevant textbooks and academic journals. Use highlighters and sticky notes to mark important sections and make notes.
4. Assignment Success Tips
- Understand the Brief: Thoroughly read and understand assignment briefs and assessment criteria. Clarify any ambiguities with your tutor.
- Structure Your Assignments: Plan the structure of your assignments carefully, ensuring a logical flow of arguments and clear introductions and conclusions.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Support all your arguments and analyses with credible evidence from academic sources, industry reports, and practical examples.
- Referencing: Pay meticulous attention to referencing to avoid plagiarism and to give credit to original sources.
- Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback from tutors and peers on drafts of your assignments. Use this feedback to refine your work.
Successfully completing the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is a significant achievement that propels HR and L&D professionals into strategic leadership roles. By understanding the demands of the qualification, adopting effective study strategies, and actively utilizing available support resources, students can navigate the challenges and excel in their studies. The journey requires dedication, critical thinking, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
