Scaffolding Students’ Reflection in an ePortfolio-based Learning Environment

This paper details a study within a doctoral research project that used an ePortfoliobased learning environment. The aim was to increase engagement of pre-service teachers in the process of reflection. The learning environment utilized the PebblePad ePortfolio platform to facilitate an Enculturation Teaching Model that included exemplars of good practice, opportunities to interact with other students, and activities designed to improve reflective skills. This paper examines the reported engagement of the students with the exemplar and activity prompts placed within the ePortfolio platform. The issues that arose throughout the implementation are also outlined including the use of other formats for assignment drafting, the lack of engagement with the voluntary activity prompts and the focus on reflective writing. The paper concludes with recommended changes to the environment for future iterations of this and similar teaching environments.