Open Source Eportfolio

Summary of Article #3

While portfolios have been present for quite some time, technology is advancing every day. The traditional portfolio has evolved into the e-portfolio which involves independent learning and promotes academic success. The article made several points on e-portfolios in regards to student centered learning, competence oriented, and multimedia-oriented. One advantage to E-portfolios is that it enables students to be in total control of their work. The students are able to constantly strengthen their weaknesses while doing a reflection of their work. The insertion of media into their work adds another dimension of learning for the students. Although the student is ultimately responsible for the work in his or her portfolio, teachers are not relieved of their responsibilities which are to ensure that the student’s portfolios contain the necessary information that aligns with the professional profile. The scope of work in regards to the objectives, content, and format of the portfolios must be defined as boundaries to serve as a guide for students.

Another advantage to E-portfolios is what is known as competence-oriented. Since the foundation of the competencies pertain to practical situations, professional practice is often linked to what students are trained on which enables the students to use the portfolio to show his or her competence.

Multimedia-oriented material allows students to demonstrate their competencies through an array of forms that deviate from the more traditional methods such as written accounts. Today, multimedia consists of utilizing a variety of materials such as drawings, photographs, illustrations, video materials, and much more.

In summary, the use of E-portfolios in student –centered learning enables students to stay up to date with the vastly changing world of technology by incorporating both competence-oriented and multimedia-oriented material. I can see how electronic portfolios will soon be one of the main tools for preparing students for the professional world.





Reflections:

This video really illistrates what eportfolios are alll about. It shows how kids can scaffold thier work using mind maps and the flexability of mind maps. I found both the article and this video to be an eye opener. I can see how eportfolios can make students learning limitless as well as responsible. I was amazed at how students are able to track thier learning through thier reflections. All of this is done and the teachers is still the main player because eportfolios allow the teacher to provide constructive feedback to the students. This is going to be an excellent tool for students to use. I think high school students will benifit tremendously because I think e portfolios will soon be a stepping stone for entering colleges.

Question:

How can we use eportfolios for assessment?