Developing a pedagogical framework for the design and the implementation of e-portfolios in educational practice

Abstract

A theoretical framework for designing, implementing and researching students’ engagement, learning, and personal development in e-portfolios is described in this article. After providing an overview of the research on e-portfolios in education, the paper analyses the theoretical foundations of e-portfolio learning. Following it proposes a conceptual and organizational framework for teachers and instructors a) to conceptualize principles of student motivation, self-directed learning and reflection, and b) to implement effective e-portfolio learning initiatives at secondary and higher education, and teacher professional development. Finally, the article presents representative case studies and good practice examples regarding the implementation of e-portfolio initiatives using different tools in various educational contexts and programs.