ePortfolio as a Tool to Support Competency Development in Hybrid Learning

• Published in: International journal of adult education and technology (Print) Vol. 12; no. 3; pp. 15 - 33
• Main Authors: Frangou, Satu-Maarit, Keskitalo, Pigga
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: San Bernadino IGI Global 01.07.2021
• Subjects: Animal Husbandry; Blended Learning; Competency Based Education; Distance Education; Electronic Learning; Entrepreneurship; Exhibits; Focus Groups; Foreign Countries; Geographic Isolation; Indigenous Populations; Outdoor Leadership; Photography; Portfolios (Background Materials); Professional Development; Skill Development; Students; Synchronous Communication; Technology Integration; Vocational Education; Workshops; Finland
• ISSN: 2643-7996; 2643-8003
• DOI: 10.4018/IJAET.2021070102

This article presents a research-based study of the role of ePortfolios in the development of vocational students' skills. The authors discuss the process of finding a hybrid learning solution that can address the issues faced by vocational teachers and their students. The authors report on a case study using educational design research (EDR) at the Sámi Education Institute in northern Finland. Data were gathered from students in reindeer herding entrepreneurship and nature guide study programs using interviews, focus group discussions, and the feedback collected from workshops. Based on the findings of the initial workshops, ePortfolios were chosen as a tool for students to develop their vocational proficiency and showcase their academic activities. According to the feedback, ePortfolios potentially promote meaningful vocational study, particularly in the context of changing conditions when the student is far away from campus. The successful use of ePortfolios requires cooperation between students and teachers and commitment to support changes in the learning culture.