How can portfolios be effectively utilized as an assessment tool?

Utilizing portfolios as an assessment tool is an effective approach because they compile student work over time, showcasing growth and learning. This method provides a comprehensive view of student progress, allowing educators to observe how a student's understanding, skills, and abilities develop throughout a course or school year. Portfolios encourage reflection, self-assessment, and critical thinking, as students select and justify the inclusion of specific pieces of work that highlight their achievements and areas for improvement.

By focusing on growth, portfolios create an opportunity for personalized feedback and targeted support, enabling teachers to tailor their instruction based on individual student needs. Furthermore, this continuous assessment approach encourages a more holistic understanding of a student's learning journey, rather than a snapshot from a single point in time.