The ePortfolio: A Learning Tool for Pre-Service Teachers

Abstract

The study reported here explored the use of an ePortfolio in teacher education, focusing on its possibilities for development of competencies in technology. The goal was to assess this competency development over a three-month period and to examine pre-service teachers’ perception of the ePortfolio as a learning tool. Results show that pre-service teachers’ competencies with technology increase while working on the ePortfolio and that they respond favorably to the ePortfolio as a learning tool. Pre-service teachers feel that the ePortfolio fosters reflection and the development of organizational skills and self-esteem while giving them better chances of finding employment. Solutions and recommendations about improving the use of an ePortfolio as a learning tool in a teacher education program are proposed.