Activity 5.2.5 Portfolio Building

Purpose

To create a portfolio To increase self-confidence

Materials

Handout–Items to Include in a Portfolio Binder or file folder

Time

1–2 hrs and on-going for two to three weeks

Method

1. A portfolio is like a portable “show and tell” collection that demonstrates past skills and accomplishments. Portfolios can be organized in a binder, file folder, video or on a computer disk. The facilitator may want to have different samples of portfolios for review. For cost and easier access, the binder or file folder portfolio is probably best.
2. Ask participants to brainstorm what items could be included in a portfolio to showcase their education and work experience.
3. The facilitator may review with participants the handout Items to Include in a Portfolio, on the next page. You may also want to suggest how to organize these items in their portfolios.
4. Instruct participants to obtain a binder or file folder for their portfolio and begin to work on their items to be included. Participants should be given approximately two weeks to develop, organize and complete their portfolios.
5. The facilitator can ask participants to bring in their completed portfolios for review and presentation. Set up some time for each participant to practise talking about themselves in front of the class using his or her portfolio as a prop. This will give them some confidence in using a portfolio before going to an actual job interview.