Frick, LiezelKapp, Chris2017-09-062017-09-062006Frick, L & Kapp, C. (2006). THe provision of continuing professional development in the natural sciences at ath University of Stellenbosch. Acta Academica, 38(2), 219 - 242.0587-2405 (print)2415-0479 (online)http://hdl.handle.net/11660/6809English: Continuing professional development (CPD) gains relevance and prominence in a global society characterised by constant change and a consumer-driven market economy. Competence, accountability, professionalism and lifelong learning are concepts currently requiring professionals to improve their expertise continuously. This article reports on the providers and the provision of CPD within a particular professional field, namely the natural sciences in higher education. The findings are based on the literature and a qualitative study conducted in the Faculty of Science at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. This mapping of the provision of CPD will provide an insight into current practice within the field, which could assist in determining future initiatives.Afrikaans: Voortgesette professionele ontwikkeling (VPO) verkry relevansie en prominensie in ’n wêreldgemeenskap wat gekenmerk word deur konstante verandering en ’n verbruikersgedrewe markgerigte ekonomie. Bevoegdheid, toerekenbaarheid, professionalisme en lewenslange leer is konsepte wat tans professionele persone lei tot die voortdurende verbetering van hul kundigheid. Die navorsing binne hierdie artikel rapporteer oor die verskaffers en die verskaffing van VPO binne ‘n spesifieke professionele veld, naamlik die natuurwetenskappe in hoëronderwys. Die bevindinge is gebaseer op literatuur en ’n kwalitatiewe studie wat in die Fakulteit Natuurwetenskappe aan die Universiteit van Stellenbosch, Suid-Afrika onderneem is. Kartering van die verskaffing van VPO sal insig bied in die huidige praktyk daarvan binne hierdie veld en sal sodoende help om inisiatiewe vir die toekoms te bepaal.enContinuing professional developmentNatural sciencesHigher educationUniversity of StellenboschAcademic staffArticleUniversity of the Free State