Theoretical Background to Electronic Portfolio
In this part, the following issues related to e-portfolio will be addressed:
- Definition of (E)-portfolio
- Paper versus E-portfolios
- Classification of (E)-portfolios
- Advantages and Disadvantages of E-portfolios
- Steps towards Successful E-portfolio Implementation
4. Advantages of E-portfolio
The graph below presents possible advantages of electronic portfolio from the perspective of teacher trainees:
Source: SOUČKOVÁ, Z. (2021). Electronic portfolio in Slovak higher education. Prešovská univerzita v Prešove, p. 44
Based on the data, the teacher trainees consider e-portfolios more environment-friendly (digital format compared to traditional paper format), practical (i.e. feasible) and accessible (using various devices).
In addition, according to Eynon and Gambino (2017, p.1), "e-portfolios make student learning visible to students themselves, to their peers and faculty, and to external audiences." Since e-portfolios use an online platform, shareability (which goes hand in hand with accessibility) could be increased compared to traditional paper portfolios. Moreover, the digital space provides an opportunity to interact more easily and thus may enhance cooperation among students.