What is an E-Portfolio?

     " In general, an ePortfolio is a purposeful collection of information and digital artifacts that demonstrates development or evidences learning outcomes, skills or competencies. The process of producing an ePortfolio (writing, typing, recording etc.) usually requires the synthesis of ideas, reflection on achievements, self-awareness and forward planning; with the potential for educational, developmental or other benefits. Specific types of ePortfolios can be defined in part by their purpose (such as presentation, application, reflection, assessment and personal development planning), pedagogic design, level of structure (intrinsic or extrinsic), duration (episodic or life-long) and other factors."

                         The ePortfolio application

"ePortfolios can be produced using simple tools (such as presentation software or blogs) but more typically using specialist ePortfolio applications that contain a level of structure (pedagogy and learning outcomes/skills) with a high level of customisation for specific contexts and support for multiple purposes. ePortfolio applications allow the owner to share specific parts or views of their portfolio online and support feedback and dialogue. Ideally ePortfolios are interoperable (for example with learning environments, recruitment services or for the migration of portfolio data to support continuity in life-long learning).

"Cite this definition as: Cotterill SJ. What is an ePortfolio? ePortfolios 2007, Maastricht http://www.eportfolios.ac.uk/definition The definition first presented in Maastricht at the ePortfolios 2007 conference. Presentation The definition draws on earlier work