In the current climate, many students are required to create a portfolio to showcase their learning. This is a collection of work that demonstrates students' skills and academic journey. We will examine portfolios in more detail, looking at when they should be created, what work to include, the formats available, and finally, the challenges involved in putting one together.
What is a student portfolio?
To expand on the brief definition given in the introduction, we might say that, in an academic context, the term ‘portfolio’ refers to a student’s work, which enables an assessment not only of the knowledge and skills they have acquired, but also of their overall personal development. For the student, this is also an opportunity to demonstrate the coherence and validity of their academic journey, whilst showcasing their ability to reflect on all the experiences they have had along the way.
There are several types of portfolios, four of which are generally recognised. The learning portfolio is the first; it is primarily focused on progression. The assessment portfolio serves to certify knowledge at a given point in time; the professional portfolio is more geared towards job-seeking or further study; and the reflective portfolio involves a more critical analysis. These differences are mainly theoretical, as in practice, all these dimensions tend to overlap.
When should you create a student portfolio?
There are several situations in which it can be useful to create a student portfolio, primarily in two areas: academic and professional.
In the academic sphere, it is created to assess what has been learnt in a particular field, as well as the development of one’s knowledge. The aim is to demonstrate the progress made; this can be particularly useful when applying for a master’s degree or a place at a prestigious higher education institution.
In the professional sphere, a portfolio can help bolster an application, making it more compelling when applying for an internship or a job. The two objectives are the same, whether it is a matter of demonstrating academic or professional abilities. In a company, competition is so fierce – and this is also the case in the academic world – that creating a portfolio helps you stand out. Take admission to a master’s programme, for example, which can be complex, or to a prestigious higher education institution; it may seem sensible to try to stand out by any means possible.
What kind of work can be included in a student portfolio?
You shouldn’t try to cram too much content into a student portfolio. You need to select the material carefully to ensure you only include the most relevant items, depending on the purpose of the portfolio in question.
The aim of a portfolio is to demonstrate a range of skills, whilst showcasing the diversity of the candidate’s background and their ability to adapt.
To make a portfolio more relevant, it is essential to highlight all academic work. Internship reports, case studies, a dissertation, a research project, or anything relating to group projects – all of these can have a place in a student portfolio.
However, it is also possible to include non-academic documents, provided they align with the intended project. For example, when a student works for a voluntary organisation, or undertakes personal, sporting or cultural projects, these demonstrate certain values that are important to the overall picture. They can add value to the portfolio and, once again, help the student stand out from the crowd.
However, it is important that each of the projects included can be commented on and analysed. The student must be able to explain the context, the objectives and the learning outcomes; only in this way can the project as a whole gain value.
What media are used?
There are various types of media; here is a summary table:
Media | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
Paper | A printed portfolio containing all of the student’s work | Simple, no digital skills required, suitable for all situations | Difficult updates, limited distribution, and complexity depending on the content to be included (videos, etc.) |
Digital | A structured document that can be viewed on various devices | Handy, as it’s easy to share. Very user-friendly | Interactions are more difficult during a meeting, and it is less certain that the recipient will consult the document |
Online | Student website or dedicated platform designed for portfolios | Clear structure, excellent visibility, can be shared very easily, easy to share | Limited customisation; requires time and technical skills |
What are the key considerations when creating a student portfolio?
There are several key considerations:
Firstly, from an educational perspective, as it enables students to reflect on their work. This requires them to take a step back, identify their own weaknesses and gain a better understanding of their progress. The aim is to highlight the entire learning process.
The challenges also relate to the recognition of skills; students can put a name to their skills, and this is very important in higher education.
Communication is also important, because when presenting their work, students will need to justify their choices and explain their methods. This is where the portfolio offers real added value compared to a traditional CV, which does not allow for explanations. A portfolio enhances the student’s credibility.
Ultimately, it is a valuable tool that helps students make decisions, whether regarding further study or entering the world of work.
How to build a portfolio?
Steps | Actions | Success criteria |
Context | Portfolio development framework | Clarify the objective |
Skills | Make a list of the skills you want to highlight | Develop a consistent framework |
Collection of works | Select the works to include | Select appropriate content |
Reflection | Add a comment for each project | Highlighting skills and knowledge |
Content | Logical structure of the portfolio | Establish a coherent and clear structure |
Media | Choose the best format | Choose the best, most practical and most convenient format |
Formatting | Pay attention to presentation; take care with style | The portfolio is clear and well-presented |
Proofreading and corrections | Check that everything is consistent, that there are no mistakes, and that the quality is up to standard | Ensure everything is consistent and ready for use |
Updates | Regular updates | Scalable portfolio |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it compulsory to create a portfolio?
No, it depends on the courses the student is applying for. Some schools or universities require one, but students can also create one on their own.
In which fields is a portfolio most commonly used?
A wide range of fields may require a portfolio; art, of course, but also design, communication, and education, to name but a few.
How many pieces of work should be included in the portfolio?
There are no limits, but it should not be overly full. Between 5 and 10 projects are sufficient; remember to include only the most relevant ones.
Is it compulsory to add comments?
Yes, because they are essential; they allow you to demonstrate what you have learnt and the progress you have made, and to speak frankly about any difficulties encountered.
Is it necessary to tailor a portfolio to the audience?
Yes; you do not present it in the same way, and you adapt the documents included depending on whether you are addressing a recruiter or a teacher.