What is an ePortfolio?

According to Wikipedia, ‘an electronic portfolio (also known as an eportfolio, e-portfolio, digital portfolio, or online portfolio^[1]) is a collection of electronic evidence assembled and managed by a user, usually on the Web. Such electronic evidence may include inputted text, electronic files, images, multimedia, blog entries, and hyperlinks. E-portfolios are both demonstrations of the user's abilities and platforms for self-expression, and, if they are online, they can be maintained dynamically over time. Some e-portfolio applications permit varying degrees of audience access, so the same portfolio might be used for multiple purposes…. E-portfolios also help to foster an independent and autonomous way of thinking, according to Strivens. This is in large part because people must focus on their collective work, think about how it will be portrayed, and what the work says about them as an individual. The individual is then in charge of their learning and the choice of where to demonstrate their proficiency. People are also forced to reflect on what they have learned and how they plan to build and improve in the future.’

 

 

Inevitably, there are many definitions of ePortfolios, or definitions which emphasise some aspects above others.  Some focus upon developmental or working documents, which maybe private or shared with others, others upon providing material which can be used to reflect upon experience and plan for the future, and others on representing or showcasing achievements, whether for an assessor, an employer, a professional body or another outside body.