Portfolio
What is a portfolio?
A portfolio is an online, Web-based portfolio of your best work, it demonstrates your ability to apply skills and knowledge in the rapidly growing field of learning technologies. The Master's Portfolio is the capstone of your ILT Program. Your portfolio presents an opportunity for you to showcase your accomplishments to professionals and prospective employers. Required elements include:
- A main page
- A reflection statement/letter of philosophy about learning, instruction, and technology
- A résumé and contact information
- Projects, project excerpts, and reports you created during your ILT program that demonstrate your mastery of professional competencies and values
- A presentation to a professional audience
- Summary/reflection accompanying each project
The portfolio is reviewed by ILT faculty during the semester in which you intend to graduate. The portfolio serves as the comprehensive exam for your master's degree.
To graduate, you must receive a "pass" judgment on your portfolio:
- You must have completed all required problem-based assessments (PBAs)
- All portfolio elements above must be present
- Website design must meet professional standards
What is the reflection statement/letter?
The reflection statement/letter allows you to clearly articulate your professional goals and describe how your portfolio products relate to them. The letter discusses what you have learned and how this learning has enhanced your ability to reach your professional goals.
Why do I need to include a résumé?
A current résumé lets you take advantage of unexpected hiring opportunities, or to successfully negotiate a salary increase with your current employer.
How many products/projects do I include in the portfolio?
Your portfolio must include at least four products/projects. However, it is advisable to include five to seven to ensure that you demonstrate all of the ILT Competencies, as well as to provide a broader selection to show employers.
How do I present my products/projects in my portfolio?
For each portfolio project, you will provide a(n):
- Introduction. A 2-4 paragraph introduction to the project that:
- briefly summarizes your project and its key outcomes;
- contains your reflection upon and appraisal of the project
- describes how this product/project demonstrates each competency to which you are connecting it.
- Project Report. Submit a report appropriate to the project.
- Materials. For ID projects, submit instructor and student materials. You may optionally submit materials for other projects as appropriate.
What is the matrix?
The matrix is an optional portfolio feature. In many ways, it serves as an advance organizer, clearly showing which portfolio products meet each competency.
Submitting your Portfolio
You must submit a professional portfolio during the final term of your program. Deadlines are close to these dates:
- Fall: November 1st
- Spring: April 10th
- Summer: July 1st
Check with your advisor about specific deadlines during your graduating term. Portfolios are published on the Web, but may include other non-Web media as needed.
What do I do if I receive a "no pass"?
A "pass" is given if all requirements are met. If your portfolio lacks an item, a faculty member will contact you as soon as possible. If it is possible, you can change the portfolio immediately and have it reviewed again for a passing grade. However, if the necessary changes are time-consuming, you will be unable to graduate until they are finished and the portfolio undergoes another review. You have one calendar year to submit a revised portfolio that meets all of the requirements.
Do I have to take a comprehensive exam?
No. The portfolio replaces the comprehensive exam. You will receive a 'pass' or 'no-pass', and possibly an honors designation. You will be formally notified of your exam results after the end of the semester. If notice of your graduation affects your employment status, you may ask your advisor to write a letter indicating your successful completion of all program requirements.
Will I have help completing my portfolio?
During your second and third semesters, one of your course activities will be to create your ILT portfolio. At the end of your third semester, your faculty and peers will review your portfolio and suggest improvements before you submit if for formal review during your final semester.