With the increasing pace of information technology development, as well as the fact that its use has become common in every possible area, digital tools have also been incorporated into career development options. An electronic portfolio is an example of such development in the realm of employment, as the studies by Slepcevic-Zach and Stock (2018) and Leahy and Filiatraults (2017). Due to the flexibility and opportunity to include multiple media types in electronic portfolios, the specified tool should be considered a vital part of the contemporary workplace landscape.
Studies also support the significance of electronic portfolios both for employees and employers. Specifically, Slepcevic-Zach and Stock (2018) explain that e-portfolios serve as a perfect means of self-reflection and self-evaluation. Therefore, e-portfolios provide an excellent chance for potential employees to chart the road for professional improvement. As a result, opportunities for career development flourish with the use of electronic portfolios.
Moreover, scholars also insist that employers benefit sufficiently from e-portfolios as well. For instance, Leahy and Filiatraults’ (2017) research has produced results that point to a generally positive attitude toward e-portfolios among employers as the means of gauging the extent of applicants’ skills and knowledge. Namely, the study purports that e-portfolios are especially useful in measuring the extent of employees’ skills and competency.
Providing a chance to increase flexibility in data management and offer a clear perspective on the accomplishments of an applicant, electronic portfolios have created a chance for applicants to demonstrate the full gamut of their skills and competencies. Therefore., while usually used in the academic setting, e-portfolios should also be incorporated into the employment setting. Due to the broad range of opportunities for showing the full range of an applicant’s skills and prowess, e-portfolios must become a part of the process of applying for a job.
References
Leahy, R. L., & Filiatrault, A. (2017). Employers’ perceptions of the benefits of employment electronic portfolios. International Journal of ePortfolio, 7(2), 217-223. Web.
Slepcevic-Zach, P., & Stock, M. (2018). ePortfolio as a tool for reflection and self-reflection. Reflective Practice, 19(3), 291-307. Web.