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Portfolios for Assessment
Many university programmes, professional bodies and training providers now require people to complete portfolios for assessment purposes. These are not a collection of everything the learner has ever done. The learner has to select relevant information and present it in a way that is quick and easy for the assessor to grade appropriately. The assessor will have a list of things they need you to demonstrate such as knowledge of a particular theory, ability to combine or compare ideas, or proof that you have done some practical work. Their time is short.
In some cases, the portfolio may completely replace exams for all learners and the course will be designed to reflect this. Follow the guidelines in the course outline and you should be fine.
In other cases, people may be given the option to offer 'portfolios of evidence' instead of doing traditional courses and exams. In these cases, many universities now give some guidance but if yours does not, you will need to make sure that you are analysing your learning, not just providing a diary of events. In most cases, you will also need to provide academic references and evidence of your reading. If you need further help, contact our portfolio service.