ERIC Number: EJ1407265
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2157-622X
EISSN: N/A
I Can See Clearly Now: Using ePortfolios to Support Reflection and Engaged Learning in a Summer Internship Program
Karen Weber; Theo Cai; Zhanat Elliston
International Journal of ePortfolio, v13 n1 p55-67 2023
This study analyzed the development of an electronic portfolio (i.e., ePortfolio) program designed to promote and assess reflection and engaged learning for participants in a summer internship program. Over the course of eight weeks, 12 undergraduates reflected weekly on their internships through their ePortfolios both in writing and through artifacts, and attended three focus groups. The researchers identified common themes that emerged from the students' reflections and the focus group discussions, as well as analyzed the artifacts they uploaded. The researchers found that students used their ePortfolios to document increased proficiency in professional skills; to reflect on their personal development; and to discover how their internships shifted their perspectives, values, and future professional and academic plans. During the focus groups, the students shared that they valued the practice of reflection and found ePortfolios easy to use and effective for reflection, strengthening their purpose and confidence and enhancing their communication. The researchers also found the tool helpful for observation and assessment. Going forward, ePortfolios will remain the program's tool for reflection. However, the curriculum and assignments will be more collaborative and flexible for students, and the prompts will vary each week to enhance reflective practice and student engagement.
Descriptors: Summer Programs, Internship Programs, Reflection, Portfolios (Background Materials), Electronic Publishing, Technology Uses in Education, Educational Technology, Undergraduate Students, Student Attitudes, Professional Development, Individual Development
Center for Teaching and Learning, University of Georgia. North Instructional Plaza, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602. e-mail: ijep@vt.edu; Web site: http://www.theijep.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: N/A
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A