Electronic Portfolio
Introduction
Before Internet, electronic, and mobile technology, portfolios were written and kept by hand on hard copy, traditional paper-based notebooks. However, current technology allows for portfolios to be kept electronically. An electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) is a collection of information used for the purpose of demonstrating how work has developed over time. It can help the user gather information about learning outcomes, as well as competencies and skills gained from learning. An ePortfolio can help students organize their information and have it displayed in an organized fashion, which can facilitate more efficient learning and work flow processes. Additionally, because it is electronic, it allows for efficient use of technology to easily and accurately access and assess a student’s work. In addition, it makes the communication between students and instructors easier and clear (Regis, n.d.). Baron (2009) states that a portfolio represents the fruits of one’s labor, and it is filled with decisions and information to maximize one’s potential.
Purpose of an Electronic Portfolio
According to Regis, students can use an ePortfolio for various reasons such as information storage, multimedia, computer skills, or assessment. Storing information is important for retaining notes and necessary files for classes and to organize schedules. Electronic portfolios can do this digitally, which can be accessed on a computer, flash drive, CD-ROM, on a mobile device, etc. Files such as presentations, applications, assignments, assessments, planning documents, etc. can be stored on an ePortfolio. Additionally, students can use the ePortfolio to organize their multimedia for assignments such as audio, graphics, and video. Also, creating, editing, and manipulating an ePortfolio gives students practice and training in computer skills and development. Finally, using the ePortfolio for assessment purposes is one of the main uses, because students can more efficiently complete tests and exercises than they can using pencil and paper. In addition, instructors can more easily assess a student’s work for assessments (Regis, n.d.).
Design and Focus of an Electronic Portfolio
Baron (2009) states that one should design an ePortfolio with specific goals in mind. Additionally, it is stated that creating and managing a portfolio means detailed planning, which could be time-consuming, but worth it. Cambridge and Cambridge (2009) state that an ePortfolio provides an accurate picture of a student’s learning progression and enables transition through developing key work skills and personal competencies. Electronic portfolios can help a person organize, not only school work, but also career materials necessary for sourcing out a successful career path.
In particular, I would like my electronic portfolio to serve as the final catalogue for my work and research materials. This can help me stay more focused and organized, as well as influence new clients in my work. Having access to an ePortfolio is another way to use technology to my advantage, as it saves time and eliminates a certain level of error that may be associated with trying to keep papers and documents organized with a traditional, hard copy portfolio. I would use the electronic portfolio as a tool to collaborate learning initiatives with my instructors or managers on a job. The ePortfolio can be used as an ongoing learning tool, as well. I can use it to reference and source previously researched information for use with current projects or to showcase my skills. I think using an electronic portfolio is more efficient that using a paper-based portfolio.
- Baron, C. L. (2009). Designing a Digital Portfolio (2nd ed.). New Riders.
- Cambridge, D., & Cambridge, B. (2009). Electronic Portfolios 2.0: Emergent Research on Implementation and Impact. Stylus Publishing.
- Regis. (n.d.). e-Portfolio Basics: What is an e-portfolio? Retrieved from Regis University Electronic Portfolio Project: http://academic.regis.edu/LAAP/eportfolio/basics_what.htm
