• By: maximise     Date: 23-12-08
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Ewan, an interesting presentation that raises many issues. I would first argue with you that because "off the shelf" products do not do what we want of them that you jump to the conclusion that free products (in every sense of the word) are the solution.

I would rather look for a solution that is designed to meet the needs of the learner rather than what a Learning Platform provider thinks we want.

As Paul comments, there is a need for the long-term retention of an e-Portfolio but the term "central agency" is laden with allusions to 1984. I would suggest that a proper, low-cost, external hosting service is the only logical solution. (Which I provide.)

As Jane notes it is imperative that the e-Portfolio is 'multi-transitional' as I describe on my website: 'The seven ages of man'. Even with the 5-19 age-group there is the possibility of many transitions as a child moves from one school to another. And then, of course, the e-Portfolio should be capable of presentation to FE/HE, and from one employment to another.

All this is possible with a properly designed system:

www.maximise-ict.co.uk/eFolio-01.htm

So, Ewan, please don't throw out ALL the babies with the bathwater!

• By: PaulSeiler     Date: 11-10-08
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Ewan, a good case made for retention over the long term of the artifacts and the process/steps between. I would be interested to hear you also put up the downsides of this being down by a central agency, as they would be significant.

• By: janenicholls     Date: 07-09-08
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Wouldn't it be great if we could get our primary, intermediate and secondary schools so connected they could continue a child's portfolio through all of schooling and then beyond if the person chooses!