Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
If advertising for hire, a teacher should state this on a homepage, so a potential
employer will quickly identify the teacher's intent to be hired. A teacher may
intend to distinguish him/herself among colleagues for peer or professional
recognition. A teacher may intend for parents and students to familiarize
themselves with his/her background, credentials, educational philosophy or
professional development. The purpose may be to inform the public about a
specific teaching method or program or to describe positive teaching and
learning experiences as a means to generate public awareness and support.
Whatever the reason(s) a teacher chooses to create a Web portfolio, there is
always a purpose, or several purposes, in mind.
Persuasion:
Many times within the author's purpose is the intent to persuade the reader.
Persuasion techniques may be obvious and blatant to the reader or subtle and
less apparent. A Web portfolio offers the teacher an arena to present his/her
purpose while persuading the intend audience.
If a teacher's purpose for creating a Web portfolio is to gain employment, the
content will attempt to persuade the potential employer to hire him or her. If the
teacher's intent is to show qualification for tenure or promotion, achievements
and accomplishments may be a primary focus of the portfolio. When a teacher
intends for parents or students to become familiar with him or her, the Web
portfolio will display persuasive content, narrative, information, images etc. to
motivate students and gain parent trust and support. If the intent is to distinguish
him/herself among colleagues and peers, there will be strong evidence of
professional development and accomplishments. When trying to gain public
awareness or support, a teacher's Web portfolio may include descriptions,
benefits, instructions, statistics, a history, progress and results.
Contact Information
Portfolios have contact information so the viewer can communicate with the
author. A teacher's Web portfolio is no different. Contact information can vary
and may include, an e-mail, school, university or personal Web address, office
hours, and/or telephone number.
