Folio Thinking

ANTHONY BARRIOS
What is an ePortfolio?
EPortfolios have been around for some time now. Clemson
University describes it as, “An ePortfolio is a collection of work
(evidence) in an electronic format that showcases learning over
time.” I often describe it as an online resource that can represent
something. Such as a resume, pieces of work, art galleries and much
more.This is just one way that an ePortfolio can be seen as. This is
the way that we have used our ePortfolios in this class.
Evidence rather than grades
The main buzz around the topic of ePortfolios is that they are
better than grades. I like the way that Trent Batson stated it,
“Grades without evidence are (almost) meaningless; evidence-based
evaluation is better.”(Batson) As the saying goes, the proof is in the
pudding. I agree with the statement that Trent Batson said and so do
many teachers around America. For years now teachers have made
it clear that they are not for the standardized test that each state
requires them to take.
Life long education
These ePortfolios have been very valuable tools in the world of education.”A well-
executed e-portfolio program is an incredible tool for higher education. They provide
institutions with authentic assessments of student learning and promote the deeper learning
that we want for our students. I don’t understand why more institutions aren’t using
them.”(Review) This has allowed educators to take a “lifelong” and “lifewide” view on
student education rather than a year to year basis. When teachers work on students
ePortfolios from a lifelong or life-wie basis they can really see the growth of a student.
Reflection
EPortfolios are very helpful when used right. They can be a major
game changer to education in several different ways. I believe that
ePortfolios are the future of education.
Resources
Batson 06/08/11, Trent. “Grades Without Evidence Are (Almost) Meaningless; Evidence-Based Evaluation Is Better.” Campus

Technology, https://campustechnology.com/articles/2011/06/08/evidence-based-evaluation-with-eportfolios-is-better-than-

grades.aspx.

Review, Peer. “The Benefits of E-Portfolios for Students and Faculty in Their Own Words.” Association of American Colleges &

Universities, 29 Dec. 2014, https://www.aacu.org/publications-research/periodicals/benefits-e-portfolios-students-and-faculty-

their-own-words.

“The What, Why, and How of EPortfolios.” The What, Why, and How of EPortfolios | Clemson University, South Carolina,

https://www.clemson.edu/academics/programs/eportfolio/information.html.