The UK’s Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) has launched three resources to help universities and colleges to implement e-portfolios effectively at scale created from successful practice from the UK, Australia and New Zealand. The materials explore the ways in which one can help to boost learner achievement, enhance employability and even support the development of new courses.
Key messages from these resources have been synthesised into a short guide, ‘Crossing the Threshold’, which summarises the issues and benefits experienced by pioneer institutions and provides signposts to key aspects of the resources.
JISC programme manager Lisa Gray says that a review of both the toolkit and supporting videos gives a thorough, accessible introduction to implementing e-portfolio tools.
At Southampton Solent University, the e-portfolio system called Mahara has been integrated with the virtual learning environment to enable students on media courses to give full rein to their creative abilities and sell themselves to future employers. The University of Wolverhampton is another example of an institution that has been exploring more innovative approaches to e-portfolios. It has reportedly found that learners studying remotely can evidence their achievements and experiences more clearly, and achieve qualifications via an e-portfolio system such as PebblePad.
In addition to developing short courses for employees of local businesses, the university has launched a new undergraduate law degree that is being delivered entirely through an e-portfolio tool.
JISC has also recently released an effective practice guide for institutions that explores ways how they can respond flexibly to the need of a broader range of learners and meet the opportunities and challenges presented by lifelong learning called Effective Learning in a Digital Age.
