Who owns the Eportfolio?

At first glance, the answer seems obvious: you own your ePortfolio. It's your space to showcase your work, passions, and growth. But ownership in the digital world can be a bit more nuanced. Let's delve into the layers of ownership when it comes to ePortfolios.
For students, true ownership goes beyond picking colors and themes. It's about having a say in the content they share. However, schools often have filters and curriculum requirements in place. This creates tension – how do we empower students while ensuring responsible online practices?
The key lies in striking a balance. We can create opportunities for student-driven learning even within a structured environment. This means trusting students with choices and equipping them with the skills for digital citizenship. By fostering their voice, we create a more authentic learning experience where students take ownership of their ePortfolio journey.
Some teachers are new to COVA (Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authentic Learning) philosophy. We're used to clear instructions and defined learning paths. Stepping into an environment where we have to choose platforms, layouts, and content can be a challenge.
But here's the thing: by embracing COVA ourselves, we become better equipped to guide our students. We model the importance of choice and ownership. While programs may offer guidance and assignments, complete ownership might feel out of reach when specific elements are required.
The beauty of ePortfolios lies in their ability to facilitate continuous reflection. As we progress through our programs or careers, our perspectives on ownership may evolve. The required elements we initially saw as limitations might become springboards for deeper exploration.
This is why your thoughts and experiences matter! Share your perspective in the comments below. Let's create a conversation around ownership in the ePortfolio world. After all, by learning from each other, we can empower both students and instructors to take full advantage of the COVA principles within their ePortfolios.

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