E‐portfolios and Global Diffusion: Solutions for Collaborative Education

Citation

Mesquita, A. (2013), "E‐portfolios and Global Diffusion: Solutions for Collaborative Education", Online Information Review, Vol. 37 No. 4, pp. 660-661. https://doi.org/10.1108/OIR-05-2013-0115

An e‐portfolio can be defined as a collection of information and digital artefacts constituting evidence of learning outcomes. With this as an accepted definition, it is easy to understand the value of e‐portfolios in education. In addition collaboration constitutes a necessary “soft skill” for surviving and thriving in the professional marketplace. If we could put both parts (e‐portfolios and collaboration) together and use them in education, we would be making the most of these two worlds. However, the adoption of the e‐portfolio and its use in education is not the same worldwide. The discussion of these topics – the use of e‐portfolios in a global dimension in education to promote collaboration – is the core of this edited book.

The collection is organised into three geographical sections: Europe, the developing world, Australasia. Each section consists of several chapters of different types (overviews, surveys, cases). The six chapters in Section 1 (Europe) cover e‐portfolio developments in a European context, reflective practice in classrooms and institutions, e‐portfolio implementation, etc. In Section 2 (the Developing World) the editors concentrate on e‐portfolio use and development in various regions (Africa, the Americas) and offer several cases to exemplify the various uses. The five chapters in Section 3 (Australasia) present cases of e‐portfolio development in higher education in Australia and Hong Kong, the preparation of faculty to capitalise on the potential of e‐portfolios, support systems for e‐teaching portfolios, etc.

The book ends with a compilation of references and a list of related references that provide additional information and enrichment for the reader. There is also some information about the contributors and an index.

The book gives a wide overview of the e‐portfolio and its usage. It presents and discusses its use as a learning and assessment tool and serves as a handy reference when entering the job market or for career development. It is recommended both for teachers and researchers seeking information on the use of e‐portfolios in higher education.