What is one of the key benefits of using portfolios as an assessment tool?

Using portfolios as an assessment tool is particularly beneficial because they document a child's progress over time. This allows educators, parents, and the child themselves to see how skills, understanding, and competencies develop. A portfolio showcases samples of a child’s work, notes on their activities, reflections, and assessments, providing a comprehensive picture of their learning journey.

This ongoing documentation is valuable for identifying strengths, areas for improvement, and planning future learning experiences tailored to the child's needs. Unlike standardized assessments, which may only capture a child's performance at a singular point in time, portfolios allow for a rich narrative of development, illustrating not just what a child can do, but how their thought processes and abilities evolve.

The process of collecting and curating portfolio items also encourages reflection and helps children take ownership of their learning, which fosters a deeper understanding of their own growth and learning trajectories.