Professional portfolios are basically described as evidence of
an individual’s growth and achievement over time. It gives employers a complete
picture of an applicant applying for an employment opportunity. It also gives
employers a thoroughly detailed summarization of what the individual has
accomplished. Portfolios allow an individual to become reflective of the things
he or she does as well as document the practices we would like to preserve and
share with others. Professional portfolio includes experiences,
accomplishments, skills, education, interests, and professional goals and
objectives. Some benefits a professional portfolio contains are a chance for
individuals to reflect on their practice, and to grow in gaining experiences. The
process of creating a professional portfolio allows individuals to collaborate
with mentors and other colleagues.
At D’Youville College’s website on career connection’s career resources
guide, a professional portfolio should include tons of different items
depending on an individual’s career field. The website provided an example of
items to include such as:
·
Work philosophy
·
Diplomas
·
Certificates
·
Summary of a special project
·
List of any publications
·
Current seminars attended
·
An updated resume
·
Community service
·
Writing sample
·
Degrees
·
Awards
·
Scholarships received
·
Pictures of projects
The Scholastic website described the professional portfolio
distinctively for educators and provided what to include into a professional
teaching portfolio.
I. Background Information
·
resume
·
background information on teacher and teaching
context
·
educational philosophy and teaching goals
II. Teaching Artifacts and Reflections Documenting an Extended
Teaching Activity
·
overview of unit goals and instructional plan
·
list of resources used in unit
·
two consecutive lesson plans
·
videotape of teaching
·
student work examples
·
evaluation of student work
·
reflective commentary by the teacher
·
additional units/lessons/student work as appropriate
III. Professional Information
·
list of professional activities
·
letters of recommendation
·
formal evaluations
