​​​​This question has arisen several times since I started these courses. At first glance, it appears that the student owns the portfolio. However, I believe the answer is more convoluted than that.

     

Diving into some research on this topic, I found this statement on Dr. Harapnuik's site.

 

"The things we are supposed to do for it [the e-portfolio] are kind of like assignments and no offense but everybody knows, for assignments, you give them what they want – you give them what they want and they give you your mark, that’s basically the way it works" (Harapnuik, 2015).

     

Initially, the person assigning the portfolio project holds some ownership. The teacher or professor provides a list of platforms for the student to explore and specifies what type of content should be included. This initial step of ownership is crucial, particularly for someone like me, who has never created an academic portfolio and is uncertain about the process. Additionally, the teacher maintains ownership through the grading of the portfolio. I don't think the student truly claims ownership until she begins to populate the portfolio's sections with her own work. At that point, her voice becomes evident through the creativity and content presented. For instance, as an art teacher, I chose a pop art theme with vibrant colors for my portfolio. My work is now integrated throughout the various links and sections. Although the quality of my assignments and the grades I receive still largely depend on how I present my work to the teacher and on the grade given to me based on the teacher’s rubric, I now have the chance to learn and grow from the feedback as I reflect on what I included in my portfolio. Once the course concludes and I move on from this master’s program, I will take the portfolio with me and add elements that I believe are pertinent to my career.

     

This evolution of ownership is a dynamic process that mirrors the educational journey itself. It highlights the transition from guided learning to independent application, where the student not only absorbs information but also starts to shape it into something uniquely their own. This transformation is a testament to the student's growth, creativity, and emerging professional identity.

Ultimately, the true ownership of the portfolio rests with the student as they carry it forward into their professional life. It acts as a bridge between their academic achievements and their future endeavors, showcasing their skills, evolution, and potential. The portfolio is not just a static collection of work but a dynamic representation of the student's journey, ready to be expanded and refined as they continue to grow and develop in their career.​