Using an electronic portfolio to support the learning process of lower-secondary school pupils when choosing a career

Abstract

The paper reports on the concept, implementation and findings of qualitative research focused on an electronic portfolio. The research aimed to explore the use of an electronic portfolio in the learning process of lower-secondary school pupils in the Czech Republic concerning their career choice. The primary research question was defined as whether we can consider an electronic portfolio as an appropriate learning tool to support pupils’ preparation for their career choice. The research sought to (a) analyse the current process of pupils’ preparation for their career choice; (b) evaluate the appropriateness of an electronic portfolio as a supportive learning tool for career choice based on the experience from last years; (c) evaluate the appropriateness of an electronic portfolio for the pupils’ self-reflection and self-evaluation development and (d) suggest optimum learning scenarios, which could be implemented into learning through educational activities. In the first stage of the action research, the pupils described their preferred occupation and specified formal and informal job requirements using cloud technologies. In the second stage, a teacher assessed pupils’ work with the assistance of an external interviewer. In the third stage, pupils prepared a curriculum vitae and cover letter for an imaginary employer using a professional portfolio. An imaginary recruitment process followed. It was organized by an external interviewer using pupils’ job applications.