Student Resources

An electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) is a dynamic online presence, different from a resume or a blog in that it includes both learning artifacts and individual reflection and demonstrates a student’s learning journey over time. Often, competencies of critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration, professionalism and work ethic, oral and written communication, digital technology, leadership, global and multicultural fluency, and career management are shown through displays of students’ best work and chosen activities. ePortfolios can relate to a specific academic field or exhibit a more broad overview of lifelong learning. Content of the ePortfolio may include writing samples, photos, videos, research projects, and observations, but the key aspect of an ePortfolio is reflection on this content, demonstrating why each experience or assignment was included and what was learned. 

Creating an ePortfolio is an exercise in technical knowledge, creativity, and reflection. Along with a resume, an ePortfolio is a tool to actively demonstrate the skills and knowledge that students accumulate not only in the classroom but through engagement both on campus and in the wider community. Montana State University is dedicated to creating an environment of learning that is impactful and career-driven, and implementing an ePortfolio program goes hand in hand with this goal.

A resume is a professional document that catalogs work experience, education, skills, and achievements to give employers an idea of a person’s marketable expertise. While similar to a resume, ePortfolios create room for a more comprehensive and in-depth look into the uniqueness and capability of an individual. While resumes are typically short, focused documents that give an overview of achievement and experience, ePortfolios are more detailed and provide the chance for demonstrated reflection on these specific events and skills.

Learning outcomes are university-recognized essential qualities that all students should have to be successful, effective, and conscientious. The learning outcomes apply to students across campus, regardless of academic track or career plans. Not only does the ePortfolio project have its own specific learning outcomes, but the assignment also contributes to the achievement of the Core learning outcomes put forth by MSU. The qualities promoted by learning outcomes deepen the experience of the undergraduate education, enrich disciplinary pursuits, and establish MSU’s graduates as lifelong learners.

MSU is an Adobe Creative Campus, so the platform for the ePortfolio project is Adobe Express. Not only do students have free access to Adobe Creative Cloud while they attend MSU, but there are also many resources around campus to help students download, learn, and utilize the different Creative Cloud applications. For more information on Adobe Express and how to begin, visit the ePortfolio Getting Started page.

Yes! The Digital Literacy Integration Team is housed in the Academic Technology and Outreach Office (128 Barnard Hall). You can also email [email protected] or drop by a workshop session with any questions. See the Events page for more information about workshops, and Examples for other students' work on their own ePortfolios.