How can we provide free online e-portfolios for our students?

Can Web 2.0 tools provide graduates with a way to create an online portfolio of work, at no cost, and help to position them for job search success?

I believe that all students who graduate with degrees in Digital Media or related disciplines should have an online representational electronic portfolio when they complete their studies. This type of tool, accessible to any potential employer, can play a critical role in the job search process. An online portfolio can also be a powerful resource for students in many other academic disciplines.

While there are many tools available in today’s marketplace that can provide this sort of functionality, some students are very pressed financially (who isn’t these days?). It would be great to be able to direct students to a free site for creating and hosting such a portfolio, that they could keep and maintain after they complete their studies.

Unfortunately, many free Web 2.0 tools are advertisement-supported, and this lends an unprofessional appearance to a portfolio of work. My goal for the next few weeks here on EmergingEdTech.com is to look into some of the ways in which today’s students can create an online portfolio of artwork and other creative expressions, at no cost, and select at least one that I think provides professional results and will support their career aspirations.

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