1. E-PORTFOLIOS 1
E-Portfolios
Defining E-Portfolios
When we think of e-Portfolios, we tend to think about a digital resume but e-Portfolios
can serve other purposes. According to Lorenzo and Ittelson (2005) e-Portfolios are used to,
“Plan educational programs; document knowledge, skills,abilities, and learning; track
development within a program; find a job; evaluate a course; and monitor and evaluate
performance” (p. 2). E-Portfolios do have artifacts that show an individual's accomplishments
and skills. Deciding what types of artifacts to use in an e-Portfolio depends on the creator’s
vision and purpose. Aligning the artifacts to a set of standards also help to establish the purpose.
Reflection is also a component of e-Portfolios because it creates meaning and value.
E-Portfolios in Today’s Society
We live in a technology driven world and it’s important that we learn how to use
technology efficiently and effectively if we want to be successful. Times change and we have to
change with the times. What has changed in the job market is what employers are looking for
and valuing. Fowler (2014), points out that, “The general public is questioning the work of a
college degree. That employers are crying out about a skills gap” (SchoolChapters, INC.).
According to the President of American Colleges and Universities, Carol Schneider, “Our
employer studies show that employers basically find the transcript useless in evaluating job
candidates” (as cited in SchoolChapters, INC., 2014). Employers are looking to see if applicants
have the knowledge and skills needed for the job. One way to show an employer that you have
the necessary skills and knowledge for that job is through an e-Portfolio. Applicants that have
effective e-Portfolios are adding value and meaning to their skill set. These individuals
understand the need for technology and how technology has changed the way we communicate.
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Elements of an E-Portfolio
There are many types of artifacts that can be used in an e-Portfolio such as images,
videos, presentations, websites, blogs, podcasts, and music. Choosing what kinds of artifacts to
use and how they are presented are important pieces to think about when creating an e-Portfolio.
Effective e-Portfolios have artifacts that are cohesive and work well together. They are like
pieces to a puzzle, when put together they create a beautiful masterpiece.
Artifacts are an important element of e-Portfolios, but according to Barrett (2010), e-
Portfolios have, “Two themes that are evident across the lifespan with both e-Portfolio
development and social networking, those of technology and reflection” (TEDxAsB). E-
Portfolios are not only used to store documents but it’s where we can show who we are as
individuals and what we value. It’s also where we can showcase our professional development
through reflection and feedback. Barrett (2010) made a connection between e-Portfolios and
social networks because both store documents, showcase accomplishments, and show who we
are as an individual (TEDxASB). What makes social networks so popular is because of how it
engages its users. Social networks, relies on intrinsic motivation where the behavior is self-
directed. Barrett (2010) points out that successful websites are where, “People feel good about
participating, give users autonomy, keep system as open as possible” (TEDxASB). So when
creating an e-Portfolio we need to think intrinsically, and look at the big picture and the purpose.
To engage our audience we need to tell a story to and be mindful of our digital identity or
branding.
My Plan
Since I’ve already created an e-Portfolio for potential employers for another class, I
wanted to do something different. In this class, I plan to use an e-portfolio to provide different
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resources for the families at my school. The e-portfolio will have resources for the content areas,
such as, reading, writing, math, and science. Every year I have families that want things that they
can do with their child at home to help them and especially if they are struggling in areas. So, in
the past I’ve sent a letter home with resources that families can use to help their child. Now, I
want to create a website that families can access with those resources. Whenever I find a new
resource I can always add to it. Since there are so many great resources out there, it would be
great to have families share what they have used and found. I would also like families to give me
feedback about the resources they have used from my website.
References
Lorenzo, G. & Ittelson, J. (2005). An overview of e-portfolios. Educause Learning Initiative.
Retrieved from https://library.educause.edu/~/media/files/library/2005/1/eli3001-pdf.pdf
SchoolChapters, Inc. (2014, May 19). The impact of eportfolios [Video file]. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=15&v=szUIAg0Ivxw
Tedx Talks. (2010, March 10). Tedxasb - helen barrett [Video file]. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckcSegrwjkA
