School Administrators’ Perceptions of the Use of Electronic Portfolios In K–8 Teacher Hiring

Abstract

This study analyzed the responses of K–8 human resource directors and principals to teacher education students’ electronic portfolios used for hiring. From the focus groups several themes emerged. First, because the principals do not have much time to examine portfolios of any kind, the ideal electronic portfolio would include only a few clearly organized, relevant, and concise elements. Two artifacts may make the hiring portfolio more compelling: evidence of K–8 student achievement as a result of the applicant’s teaching and a video clip of the applicant engaging children in learning. Principals found the video clips helpful in distinguishing among the candidates, but noted that a poor video could eliminate the applicant. The extent to which teacher education faculty should assist students in construction of artifacts was discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Suzanne Painter

Dr. Suzanne Painter is an associate professor of Educational Leadership at Arizona State University at West campus. Her research interests include improving principal preparation and teacher recruitment. Communications with the authors should be directed to Dr. Painter at [email protected].

Keith Wetzel

Dr. Keith Wetzel is a professor of Educational Technology at Arizona State University at West campus. His research interests include the implementation of electronic portfolios in teacher education and the change process.