I have been asked about the potential for creating portfolios for a new organization. I the past, I created a series of documents outlining the work of work of creating portfolios. In an attempt to support my new colleagues, I am revising and posting some of the my earlier work.
Regardless of the purpose of the portfolio, creating one comprises four general steps:
1. Identify the Purpose
Portfolios are created form many purposes; students document how they have met standards, professionals document their work and skill, and creative people display their work. Frequently, a group that has specific expectations will review the portfolio. To avoid wasting time and energy, understand those expectations clearly before you begin. Be sure you know answers to these questions:
- What is the purpose of the portfolio?
- Is there a preferred or required organization?What types of artifacts are expected?
- Who is the audience? What do they expect to see?
2. Create
Portfolios are created online in the 21st century. Artifacts are digital (pictures, audio, and video) and these are uploaded to a sites where reflections are added (or copied and pasted form a word processor) and then it is shared with the intended audience.
- Identify, digitize, and upload artifacts demonstrating your skill;
- Compose reflections that connects the artifacts, your skill, and the expectations;
- Ensure navigation is easy.
3. Get Feedback
Some portfolios are high-stakes endeavors; college credit, graduation, or hiring decisions all depend on the quality of what you submit. Having others in your cohort review and give feedback is as essential as is having mentors review the portfolio.
4. Get Feedbacl
Most portfolios will be submitted fir review by an individual or group who judges the contents to make recommendations regarding credit or the other decisions referenced above. Be sure to understand the expectations and deadlines.