Why Choose Tech

A 2015 study comparing online presentation platforms with print platforms revealed that using online portfolios significantly caused students in a Further Education course at Sheffield University to take more ownership over the tracking and completion of their work and improved assignment submission times. Using technology motivated students to “complete work more quickly and effectively.”

Another study, out of National Taiwan University, found that juniors majoring in multimedia design had “significantly higher knowledge amassment” when they created personal e-portfolios using blogs than when they did not. The experiment lasted nine weeks and indicated that the effects of blog-based portfolios on knowledge amassment was significantly positive.

At the University of South Florida, Blaustein & Lou found that electronic portfolios 1) enhance motivation and self-regulation; and 2) increase learning strategies, motivation strategies, academic achievement, and technical aptitude. The researchers caution, however, that e-portfolios must “be student-centered, offer some user control, and require full commitment and planning” in order to be effective.

Gallagher & Poklop at Northeastern University highlight one striking difference between print and digital presentation platforms–namely, the ability to cater one’s work to multiple audiences. Whereas print portfolios are traditionally designed for review by student or instructor, digital portfolios offer the possibility of reaching various groups simultaneously, without regard to place or time. This feature allows for more diverse and objective feedback on student work, not to mention placing skills and achievements in a position to be reviewed by potential employers.

But not all e-portfolios are created equal. At Michigan State University, researchers are investigating the most successful features of e-portfolios designed for a teacher education course. In their paper, they identify and describe seven best practices for the design of portfolio courses: peer feedback, authentic audience and assessment, diverse resources, learning by doing, open access, confidential spaces, and self-pacing.

As you can see, there’s an overwhelming amount of evidence supporting online presentation methods. But which tools are best for student learning? Below we offer 24 of our favourites. Feel free to recommend your own in the comments section.