E-Portfolios

An e-portfolio (electronic portfolio) is a collection of artefacts (arguments, documents, graphics, text, audio, and video) that accompany a form of meaningful reflective practice demonstrating a student's self-reflection and growth during their "learning journey" through the MDDE program.

My first exposure to portfolios was when I started working with Okanagan College. The various office administration program(s) that I instruct include a portfolio component.  Students are required to compile their "best" work throughout the year. At the end of the 10-month period students then arrange their work into a flexible case creating a portfolio. We recommended that students use the portfolio as a tool to demonstrate their work to potential employers.

At the time, I thought this was a great idea and started my own portfolio by collecting various artefacts pertaining to my workplace skills and accomplishments. 

Upon enrolling in the MDDE program I explored my options of taking the thesis route versus the course-base route. After much deliberation I concluded that the course-based route was the best option for my desired outcome. As a result, I was introduced to the e-portfolio that acts as a "capstone" as an alternative to the comprehensive examination process. Once I began researching the MDE e-portfolio, I realized that my knowledge of portfolios was very limited and simple.

As described in my initial thoughts, my understanding of portfolios was limited; I considered portfolios to be a "collection" of ones "best" work serving as an observational tool.

I then viewed the Elluminate recording orientation by Dr. Debra Hoven, Dr. Rick Kenny, and Dr. Susan Moisey. This introduction to the e-portfolio is an excellent source of information that clarifies the definition of an e-portfolio, its role and purpose, and expectations in MDDE program.

The orientation recording identified three types of portfolios (showcase, assessment,  process-type), and their purpose. At the beginning of the presentation Dr. Hoven explains that e-portfolios are are used as a repository, a place where digital artefacts or media can be stored, organized, and managed; to journalize new insights and new knowledge, reflections; as a presentation tool; and to collect feedback from visitors. Dr. Kenny provides ample amounts of sample e-Portfolos and Dr. Moisey explains and demonstrates the suggested technology used to house e-portfolios.

After reviewing the course materials and the Moodle orientation and instructions pages, it is apparent that by keeping an up-to-date e-portfolio is an effective way to not only follow my footsteps, but also foster my critical reflection as I move through this program. This is a great meaningful alternative to a final exam. The addition of e-portfolio to the MDDE program demonstrates Athabasca Universities commitment to ensuring a quality learning experience.

As for my students, I will encourage students to create a e-portfolio that not only captures their work and achievements and most importantly fosters growth and reflection.

Once I had a feel for the expectations of the e-portfolio I began my own orientation to Mahara. I have experience with many web-based design software; therefore, I welcomed the opportunity to become acquainted to Mahara. As a result I found Mahara easy to work with and thoroughly enjoyed creating my CAI assignment in this type of environment.

Adobe Systems (2011). Creating electronic portfolios with Adobe Acrobat X Pro tutorial (Retrieved August 27, 2011 from http://edexchange.adobe.com/posts/2a36d21a1d).