Electronic portfolios : experiences of pre-registration nursing students at the University of Malta

Abstract

Eportfolios are increasingly used in educational contexts due to their value in meeting employment demands and professional expectations. This paper presents and critically discusses the introduction and evaluation of Google Sites-based eportfolios among students in the Bachelor's nursing programme at the University of Malta in 2020. The eportfolio aimed to nurture systematic assembly of learning experiences and reflections to enhance and document student growth and development. An evaluation exercise explored the benefits and challenges of eportfolios as perceived by pre-registration nursing students. Information was collected from final-year students (N = 88) using an online survey in June 2022, at the end of the third year of the Bachelor’s programme of studies. Analysis revealed that survey respondents (N = 29) engaged with collecting and presenting their learning experiences as evidence of growth and development to varying extents. The use of eportfolios as a vehicle for constructing meaning from experiences and as a formative assessment tool was limited. A significant gap was identified in reflective critical discussions between students, educators, and qualified nurses regarding students' experiences. Recommendations for similar future initiatives are presented.