Portfolio use in postgraduate medical education: a systematic scoping review

Abstract

Background: Portfolios are increasingly commonplace in postgraduate medical education. However, poor understanding of and variations in their content, quality, and structure have hindered their use across different settings, thus dampening their efficacy. Methods: This systematic scoping review on portfolios in postgraduate medical education utilized Krishna’s Systematic Evidence Based Approach (SEBA). Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis and Hsieh and Shannon’s directed content analysis were independently used to evaluate the data. Results: In total, 12 313 abstracts were obtained, and 76 full-text articles included. Six key themes/categories were identified: (i) portfolio definitions and functions, (ii) platforms, (iii) design, (iv) implementation, (v) use in assessments, and (vi) evaluations of their usage. Conclusions: Portfolios allow for better appreciation and assessments of knowledge, skills, and attitudes in time-, learner-, and context-specific competencies through the establishment of smaller micro-competencies and micro-credentialling. Organized into three broad stages—development, implementation, and improvement—a six-step framework for optimizing and instituting portfolios in postgraduate medical education is offered.