ePortfolio Thinking: The Challenge of the Public Research University

Abstract

This chapter examines the trajectory of electronic portfolio development and adoption at large public research institutions. The author frames her research with her own attempt to implement a program-level portfolio for undergraduate majors in her own department. Her investigation of 59 institutions suggests that our largest campuses face unique challenges that may limit the extent to which they adopt electronic portfolios. While some of these challenges are practical and logistical, the more significant barriers seem to be related to campus culture, particularly faculty engagement in undergraduate education.