**Note: This abstract updates previous abstract of same title submitted - paper #11. I was unable to edit previous abstract as it is out to review. However, we have an additional (third) perspective to share in this abstract/presentation.
---
The aim of this presentation is to share the experience of three academic developers in using learning portfolios to support their own professional development. A recent literature synthesis states that learning portfolios can support “the generation of a useful product that serves as comprehensive evidence of the learner’s skills and competences and can be shared with others” (Scully et al, 2018, p.9). According to O’Farrell (2007) they are also used for providing evidence of a quality approach to professional development; documenting teaching practice for promotion or membership of professional bodies; and providing evidence of engagement with non-accredited professional development opportunities.
This presentation will share three different approaches. The platform in all cases is Mahara, under the DCU Loop Reflect banner. One perspective will describe use of Loop Reflect in relation to professional development aligned to the National Forum’s Professional Development Framework (PDF). Initially, this academic developer used Wordpress for their PDP, but more recently has transferred her experience to Loop Reflect. The presenter will draw on experience of both platforms to compare approaches in terms of flexibility, alignment to the PDF, and professional development with DCU.
A second perspective will describe use of the learning portfolio in providing evidence required for membership of the Staff and Educational Development Association (SEDA), a UK professional body. The presenter will discuss the requirements for SEDA fellowship and explain how the portfolio platform enabled presentation of the range of evidence required.
In the third example, the experience of moving from a paper-based to an electronic professional development portfolio will be considered. Specifically, some of the opportunities and challenges of adapting a ‘traditional’ teaching portfolio to the online space will be examined. Finally, the presentation will conclude with a discussion on how academic developers can support teaching faculty in the development of portfolios.
References
O'Farrell, C. (. (2007). Teaching Portfolio Practice in Ireland: A Handbook. Dublin: AISHE-R.
Scully, D., O’Leary, M. & Brown, M. (2018). The Learning Portfolio in Higher Education: A Game of Snakes and Ladders. Dublin: Dublin City University, Centre for Assessment Research, Policy & Practice in Education (CARPE) and National Institute for Digital Learning (NIDL).
Keywords
Professional Development; ePortfolio; Digital Portfolio; National Professional Development Portfolio; academic developers
Topics: Continuing Professional Development , Topics: Digital Identities and Literacies
