Abstract

Students studying for a degree in social work are required to undertake one hundred
and seventy days of direct practice with service users in social care settings (TCSW,
2011). Traditionally students on practice placements have produced a hard copy
portfolio which compiles evidence to meet a range of educational and professional
requirements, as well as demonstrating key attributes such as critical thinking and
reflection. Following a scoping exercise which demonstrated that there were
significant advantages to using an electronic portfolio, the School of Health and
Social Care at the University of Lincoln developed, piloted and introduced an eportfolio
on both its’ undergraduate and Master’s social work degree programmes.
This paper provides a rationale and contextualisation for the introduction of this type
of innovative digital technology and reviews the pedagogical and practical
opportunities and limitations presented by the e-portfolio. This presentation will also
provide an opportunity for participants to view the e-portfolio in operation.