An online tool that lets users document their learning, experience and achievement as they go is enhancing Queensland University of Technology students' study and career prospects in several ways.
ePortfolio is an internet-based resume and project-building tool that lets students and staff record and present their academic, professional and personal development.
QUT, which was one of the first Australian universities to embrace the technology, is leading a Carrick Institute-funded study into the use of ePortfolio in Australian tertiary institutions.
Dominique Chora, a QUT media and communications/business double degree student, began using ePortfolio for an assignment and soon discovered its great potential.
"ePortfolio prompts you to write about your projects, what it was, what you did and what the result was. You can also upload a file of the end result, like a PowerPoint presentation or a final report," she said.
"The self-analysis of experiences is very useful. It lets you see the skills you are accelerating at and what skills you can develop further."
Ms Chora said ePortfolio was an excellent tool in helping to build job applications.
"Because it's online, you can access it anywhere," she said.
"I was in an interview with an employer who asked about one of my projects. I was able to log into my ePortfolio on her computer and show her what I had done."
Dr Gillian Hallam is the project leader of the Carrick Institute-funded study Australian ePortfolio Project, which aims to map where, how and who is using the technology.
"ePortfolio can be invaluable for students as a learning and showcasing tool," Dr Hallam said.
"It can help students get jobs by feeding an interview situation. During an interview, a job applicant may be asked to show, for example, when they have used critical thinking. In building the ePortfolio they have already thought about what they have learnt in undertaking different projects.
"Also, because they can upload their projects onto the website, potential employers can see first hand examples of their work."
The nine-month study, which is due to be completed in July, is being undertaken by QUT in conjunction with The University of Melbourne, The University of New England and University of Wollongong.
For more information about the Australian ePortfolio Project, visit www.eportfoliopractice.qut.edu.au | 
