Reflection Three

An assessment for Learning develops learners’ capacity for self-assessment so that they can become reflective and self-managing.

I could most identify with the above AFL principle because it focuses on the importance of betterment of self. Reading this article really enlightened my thoughts about portfolios, electronic or otherwise. I have never considered the three purposes of the portfolio and therefore never utilized them to my advantage. All three of the uses could be an extreme benefit to me as a teacher.

I have done several portfolio assignments for the sake of “getting it done.” With this newfound understanding, I intend to use the electronic portfolio from this class as a means of furthering my learning and professional development rather than simply earning the points toward my final course grade. I have kept many things over the course of my college career but they are scattered haphazardly on disc drives, an old laptop computer and a couple of shelves in my home office.

Currently without a permanent teaching spot, I will also use the portfolio as a marketing tool. I have felt inferior in several interviews as I sat in the waiting area listening to other candidates speak of portfolios. I still did not bother to use one. I felt intimidated by it, perhaps. It seemed such a daunting task but now it seems more like a must. My perspective has definitely changed.