Introduction

An ePortfolio (eP) is a well-organized collection of electronic artifacts (text, audio, photo, video, etc.) that demonstrates an individual’s accomplishments, abilities, reflections, thoughts, ideas, etc. There are several types of portfolios  (some of which can overlap) generally used by students:

• Competency based
• Reflective
• Demonstration of learning, growth
• Employment /Career

The eP can have several purposes including but not limited to:

• Demonstration of competencies for assessment (academic or employment)
• Support demonstration of growth, learning, throughout a course or program
• Sharing of reflections, ideas
• Develop critical thinking
• Link academic learning to the outside world
• Career planning
• Teaching dossiers
• Lifelong learning
• Demonstration of program outcomes for program accreditation

Goals, Objectives

Clearly defined goals and/or objectives for an eP should be clearly defined and stated. These should be stated within the portfolio. For an academic eP the goals and objectives should be consistent with the institution, or program’s mission, vision and strategy and map back to the curriculum.

Audience

The audience may include instructors/faculty, peers, potential employers, public, or a subgroup of any of these groups. The audience will impact the style and content of the eP, so having the audience clear at the beginning will help alleviate any extra work or frustration on the part of the student.

Types of Artifacts

Artifacts may include samples of work, letters of recommendation, awards, certificates, reflections, points of view, or other items that support the goal or purpose of the eP. There are a variety of different formats of artifacts that can be used, which gives eP and advantage over a non-e portfolio.

For More Information

Faculty and instructors – if you would like assistance with using an ePortfolio in your program or course, please contact the instructional designers in CITL’s Teaching and Learning Exchange – tlx@mun.ca.