Άρθρα ανά μήνα: Νοέμβριος 2018

Traditional vs alternative assessment

eportfolio

Paper-and-pencil tests have been until these days the primary means to test students’ proficiency in the foreign language. This type of assessment is mainly summative and is usually related to high stakes exams. According to West (2004a), this approach to foreign language testing overemphasizes the grading function, while students confine themselves to passive recipients of knowledge whose needs are not taken into consideration.

paper-and-pencil test

In a learner-centred approach to foreign language teaching students are expected to assume a more active role. Nunan states that “learners who are able to play the kind of active role in their own learning (…) could be said to be autonomous” (p. 193).

Hughes (1989) mentions that criterion-referenced testing not only provides information about what students can actually do with language but “students are encouraged to measure their progress in relation to meaningful criteria” (p. 21).

ePortfolio, as an alternative method of assessment, demands more active participation on behalf of the students (Yastibas, 2013) and promotes learning independency (Alawdat, 2014). In addition it focuses both on the process and product of learning (Genc & Tinmaz, 2010).

e-portfolios as a pedagogical device in primary education

Paper-based portfolio vs Eportfolio

Paper-based portfolios as well as ePortfolios:

have a positive impact on improving students’ writing skills (Aygun & Aydin, 2016· Barabouti, 2012· Caner, 2010· Erdogan & Yurdabakan, 2011· Jee, 2008· Kalra et al., 2017· Khodashenas & Rakhshi, 2017· Mtawaa, 2017· Taki & Heidari, 2010· Tezci & Dikici, 2006). Nevertheless, research has shown that ePortfolio is more preferable than paper-based portfolio, since students believe it demonstrates their true capabilities more than a paper portfolio does (JISC, 2008). Also, students prefer submitting their papers online (Alawdat, 2014).

Apart from the above mentioned differences, ePortfolio is superior to paper portfolio for various other reasons.

  1. Challis (2005) mentions that using ePortfolio makes it easier to handle material digitally as well as give feedback, since it takes less time.
  2. Also, storage is easier and ePortfolios can be carried everywhere.
  3. Moreover, a great audience can easily have access to it by the web. At the same time, students can prove their IT skills.

However, the use of ePortfolio has been found to be a source of anxiety for some learners who cannot cope with technology or the presence of audience (Alawdat, 2014· Hung, 2012).