The Multimedia Electronic Portfolio: History and Implementation. An Alternative Approach to Instruction and Assessment

Technology is becoming an increasingly essential tool in most educational experiences. One sees technology incorporated in delivery of instruction in conventional classrooms, in enrichment activities, and in remedial programs. Technology applications are becoming an indispensable part of education on all levels, and it goes far beyond that when technological skills play a vital role in finding and retaining a job. One technique capable of enhancing the potential of technology in education is the electronic portfolio (A.K.A. e-portfolios/digital portfolios). The use of a portfolio as a teaching tool and alternative assessment instrument is not new for education or instruction. During the past decade, educators have been using portfolios as a viable method of demonstrating student learning in outcome-based education and professional preparation. Wiedmer found that the reported benefits of the electronic portfolio development process are similar to those that have been recorded for developing the hard-copy portfolio, while the enhanced medium offers additional ways to display unique talents and abilities. This paper presents a historical background on the development and evolution of electronic portfolios, together with some of the opportunities and challenges facing the development of one, and finally, an application of the concept of e-portfolios to the field of undergraduate education in construction management. The model used in the development of the suggested multimedia e-portfolio uses the SIPOC approach to quality management, including the five phases of supplier, input, process, output, and customer.