What brought about the development of this program?
Scotiabank recognized the opportunity to simplify and streamline on-going learning for our branch-based investment professionals. BUILDING BLOCKS provides an array of learning resources through a structured continuing education approach.
BUILDING BLOCKS outlines the learning activities that should be treated as your highest learning priority. They are the foundation of your ongoing learning.
What's the value add for experienced investment professionals?
BUILDING BLOCKS provides you with the most up-to-date learning in the areas identified as highest priority for your role in this fiscal year. It strengthens your personal value proposition and builds credibility with customers. It can also support your continuing career development.
You should enroll in the BUILDING BLOCKS Primers that align with the time of year when you have begun your role. Your Learning Plan Calendar will tell you what Primer subjects to focus on so that you can enroll appropriately through My Learning Centre. You should discuss with your Manager any additional in-depth learning offerings that may be beneficial to you as you start your role.
Do external courses qualify and/or exempt me from BUILDING BLOCKS courses?
External courses do not replace or exempt you from the BUILDING BLOCKS required courses. Our internal courses are custom built to reflect the Scotiabank approach and to cover specific content. External courses may be acceptable (as determined by your Manager) to fulfill optional learning.
Who monitors and tracks my results/progress?
You are in charge of your continuing education and are expected to track your progress against your BUILDING BLOCKS Learning Plan. Your Manager will want to see how you are progressing and you should be prepared to share your accomplishments. Certain required learning elements will also be tracked for compliance and regulatory purposes and reported accordingly.
Why has testing been introduced?
Scotiabank is introducing regular testing as a knowledge and capabilities check. Testing will help ensure that all Scotiabank branch-based investment professionals are highly skilled and knowledgeable.
What are the consequences not participating in the BUILDING BLOCKS programs?
Opting out of the program may leave you behind in terms of your professional development. Also, not participating in certain elements of the program, such as required compliance and regulatory courses, could result in suspension of your MFR license.
What are the consequences of poor test scores? Is there a pass/fail?
If you are unsuccessful with certain courses, this may identify areas for additional development that your Manager can help you with. Having a pass/fail criteria for some elements raises the bar and sets a standard for all Scotiabank branch-based investment professionals. Testing provides you with feedback on your progress and helps you further build your Learning Plan.
How long do I have to complete BUILDING BLOCKS? How long should it take me? [PARK THIS]
The BUILDING BLOCKS curriculum outlines the estimated time for each learning opportunity. It is expected that you will allocate approximately 3 hours over the course of a year to complete your annual BUILDING BLOCKS Learning Plan. Note that BUILDING BLOCKS does not add any additional time to training – it reallocates and prioritizes existing training time and provides efficient on-line delivery mechanisms e.g. MFR/BCO Certification Module.
When should I engage in BUILDING BLOCKS learning?
Your BUILDING BLOCKS Learning Plan will tell you the ideal time to complete each element of BUILDING BLOCKS learning. Be sure to pace your learning at optimal times throughout the year. Do not complete all subjects at once.
How is this different from what I’ve been doing as a learner?
The methods of learning are no different than what you do today. The difference is that you now have a structured program that identifies your required learning through a comprehensive learning plan.
