(e)Portfolio: A history

Abstract

This paper traces the evolution of the concept of portfolio from the Renaissance to the present day. Over time the meaning of portfolio evolved from its origins as a case for holding loose papers to other contexts such as finance, government and education. Portfolios evolved from paper to electronic, from local network to the world wide web. The decade from 2000-2010 was a period when technology became part of mainstream society and educational technology become part of mainstream higher education, and portfolios became a ubiquitous assessment. From 2010-2020, a shift towards an emphasis on pedagogy and the student learning experience occurred in eportfolio research and practice. The history of (e)portfolio in higher education shows that the higher education system will continue to gradually evolve, incorporating concepts, technology and approaches that are compatible rather than transformative.