What is a Learning Portfolio (also known as an ePortfolio)?
"In general, an ePortfolio, is a purposeful collection of information and digital artifacts that demonstrates development or evidences learning outcomes, skills or competencies. The process of producing an ePortfolio (writing, typing, recording etc.) usually requires the synthesis of ideas, reflection on achievements, self-awareness and forward planning; with the potential for educational, developmental or other benefits. Specific types of ePortfolios can be defined in part by their purpose (such as presentation, application, reflection, assessment and personal development planning), pedagogic design, level of structure (intrinsic or extrinsic), duration (episodic or life-long) and other factors."
There are various purposes in education for learning portfolios, typically they are used for student assessment, career planning and learning. This Business Skills resource suggests that you create a learning portfolio to use as your personal space for examining and reflecting on your learning.
Over time you may also decide to investigate how to use your Learning Portfolio for career planning. You can use your learning portfolio to showcase your achievements to employers and you might also like to think more broadly and include experiences outside of this resource. You could include evidence of skills you have gained:
- At university
- At work
- In volunteer roles
- In your personal life.
Examples may include:
- Assessment pieces
- Achievements in paid or voluntary work
- Awards you have won at university, work or in your personal life.
The activities in the Business Skills modules are designed to help you develop evidence of your skills and enhance your work-readiness. Some activities (quizzes, watching videos or thinking about topics) are designed for learning (to get you thinking, reflecting or trying out new strategies) and should be written up in your learning portfolio. Other activities may also be appropriate for your learning portfolio. You will decide on which activities to store in your learning portfolio. As a guide, there are prompts throughout the modules as to which activities would be suitable to save in your learning portfolio.