Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
I feel begins to explain the essence of what we want the electronic portfolio to
become. Greenberg (2004) writes:
Ideally, all work in an electronic portfolio not only is digital but
also is available on the Internet. Yet even though materials may
be visible on the Web, the e-portfolio is not simply a personal
home page with links to examples of work. In addition, unlike a
typical application program, such as word processing, an e-
portfolio is a network application that provides the author with
administrative functions for managing and organizing work
(files) created with different applications and for controlling
who can see the work and who can discuss the work (access).
And unlike a course management system, in which instructors
manage assignments and materials within the framework of a
specific course, e-portfolios are controlled by the author (student),
who manages his or her work across multiple courses throughout
an academic career.
(pp. 28-29)
This definition presents several items for closer analysis. First, Greenberg
makes a distinction that the electronic portfolio is not only digital but also
available on the Internet. Development of the electronic portfolio and delivery
are typically centered on using the Web. With using the Internet for delivery,
electronic portfolios become less effective and more prone to failure. The next
point that Greenberg makes surrounds the electronic portfolio as a not just a
home page. He is correct in that statement. Any portfolio, in general terms
needs to be filled with work samples and evidence of growth and learning
throughout someone's career. How can that amount of information be deliv-
ered effectively in only one page? It cannot. An electronic portfolio must be a
narrative that gives a perspective to the user. The perspective of the viewer is
shaped by the content and structure of the Web portfolio. Greenberg continues
to describe the e-portfolio as having a network function. The Web portfolio
specifically is a content container that allows dynamic storage capabilities as
well as obvious delivery features. The content management concept that the
Web portfolio provides is going to be essential to bringing Web portfolios to
everyone across jobs and disciplines. The creator of a Web portfolio will gain
technical skills by acting as an administrator for his or her own Web site which
will be their electronic portfolio.
