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An ePortfolio, or electronic portfolio, is an online collection of learning. ePortfolios are journeys of learning that show learning of the author through reflection and showcasing of concepts. ePortfolios are both a process and a product.
“... eJournals help to make ePortfolios more authentic and relevant to the students’ lives. Focusing on reflection and inquiry, [their] study explored the use of social software as a tool to build and sustain a community of practice…” (Crichton and Kopp, 2008. p. 2) video source: http://www.youtube.com/embed/xvqBORISA5k?rel=0 |
What makes an ePortfolio unique? |
ePortfolios have three requirements:
These requirements mean that a blog, a resume or an online profile on Linked In or Facebook, are not the same thing. Each has elements of an ePortfolio but not quite to the same degree; they are often too static and do not necessarily show the same depth of reflection or analysis that is required in a successful ePortfolio. They are; however, often included in a portfolio. |
Types of ePortfolios |
There are two main types of ePortfolios – a work space and a
presentation space. The work space ePortfolio is known as an Assessment portfolio. These portfolios
show the development of ideas and the process of learning – like a journal of
learning that shows competence in learning. It is a documentation of learning. This
format can be very collaborative and develop through constructivist and
holistic learning. The other type, Showcase
portfolios, highlights exemplars and final works with reflection. The process
of getting to this point is less important. This could be highlights of
completed student work or areas of curriculum. This is a dynamic document of
achievement.
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This chart very effectively outlines the two types of ePortfolios in a visual way. This chart outlines Assessment portfolios (in yellow) and Showcase portfolios (in blue). The Assessment portfolio is a process with immediate reflection that is created in a chronological format. It is an assessment for learning (formative). A Showcase portfolio, on the other hand, is a look-back that highlights a specific theme with purpose. It is an assessment of learning (summative). image reference: https://sites.google.com/site/eportfolioapps/overview |
Learn more about ePortfolios by clicking on Assessment or Showcase above or by continuing the tour with NEXT STOP:
At any point, you can also visit our resources page to learn more about the research available on electronic portfolios. |