WHAT IS A PORTFOLIO?

A portfolio is simply a portable collection of artifacts or a record of what the creator has to offer in terms of range, quality of work/knowledge/ level of skill attainment and capabilities. It is not a historical record or a profile of current competence, but a living, growing collection of evidence that mirrors the growth of its creator.

BUT WHAT ARE THE USES OF A PORTFOLIO?

Development meeting/appraisal At appraisal your portfolio demonstrates

that the activities and objectives have been undertaken and achieved and where your career is heading.

Course participation A portfolio enables the learner to

become more reflective, to be able to recognize strengths and limitations and become more aware of the learning they have achieved.

Career development/promotion Competencies or benchmarks specify

performance criteria that have to be achieved by employees seeking promotion — a portfolio demonstrates achievement or development in these areas.

Monitoring practice Evaluation of practice demonstrates

ongoing commitment to competence and can lead to improved performance in practice, which can be presented in the portfolio.