As a programme leader this speaker wanted to have students complete a portfolio to help bridge the theory practice gap. There were some national standards for teacher education which fitted well with this and there was a desire to develop lifelong learning characteristics in students. There were seven standards with 37 descriptors. The standards focused on three main areas, 1 on knowing students and how they learn, 2 on knowing the content and how to teach it and 3 planning to teach and implementation.  Students were expected to be proficient against these standards after one year of teaching and the portfolio would enable students to continue to collect evidence. This enables staff to apply to be recognised as highly accomplished or a lead which at present is voluntary but may be compulsory in the future.

A range of digital portfolios were explored but Mahara was chosen. This is a free digital portfolio which enables you to use photos as well as text. You make links between aspects of the portfolio and you can share the portfolio. There is a need to ensure ethical issues of discussing class activities are understood. The portfolio also enables you to add a CV and link to papers and presentations. One disadvantage is that there are some space issues with Mahara once you have added a lot of information, pictures and text.