Twisting the Kaleidoscope: Making Sense of ePortfolios

Abstract

This exploratory study examines if student perceptions and ePortfolio products match faculty beliefs that ePortfolios are influential learning experiences. Multiple methods of data collection (survey about values and uses of ePortfolios, and content analysis of the quality of ePortfolios) are used to triangulate the results. Student ePortfolios are reviewed for level of difficulty, uniqueness, design, and depth of reflection. Multiple raters help ensure reliability. Bivariate analysis as descriptive statistics is used to determine if any relationship exists between ePortfolio rubric score and academic credits earned in computer technology courses. This research aims to inform the development process of ePortfolios across university campuses, and suggests that the investment of time and resources in this authentic assessment process is yielding some valuable results.