Is there anything portfolios can assess that other tools can't?

Overall, the answer is probably ‘no’, although there are some skills portfolios test which are not commonly assessed by other mechanisms in higher education, for example the ability to index, arrange and manipulate materials. They are also, through the device of a critical commentary, a particularly good tool for testing the ability to synthesise and evaluate ideas and information. However, portfolios have the edge over many other assessment tools by virtue of their versatility. By comparison most conventional assessment tools (essays and examinations whether open or closed book) test a narrower range of knowledge and capability.

Last Modified: 22 July 2010