Peter's Perspective:
In our e-portfolios we are given the chance to present any information we find fit for future employers. Once this information is presented we are not done. We have one key assignment and it’s reflecting on the information we present. An example of this would be in my e-portfolio I plan on attaching a copy of my transcript. Like a lot of people there are flaws in my transcript. A quick example being my freshmen year I managed to fail a class. Rather then not using my transcript as evidence because of this flaw in my reflection I mention it. I point out that while I did fail this class it was an elective, and then I go on to highlight the positives that I wanted to take from my transcript such as the 3.8 GPA in upper level courses. This is different then just describing the evidence in your portfolio. You are not just describing something that is obvious to whoever might be reading but rather highlighting the points you hope will stick out from your evidence. Overall this is the chance to really tell your audience what they should be looking for and expect from your e-portfolio.
My Perspective:
Looking back on my years spent working towards my degree, I find that I really had a difficult time finding a niche within the university. I've changed my major multiple times and even within IDS I've changed my areas of focus and minors- these changes are not flaws, instead they reflect the diversity of my interests, my ability to accomplish merit within various areas of study. I'm hoping that my e-portfolio, in showing my prowess in multiple fields, can also reflect my ability to work under diverse circumstances and showcase the multitude of my skills. Actually reflecting back on my education helps me to appreciate what I have been able to take away from my courses, whether difficult or easy, and whether or not I liked my professor. The e-portfolio reflects my own understanding of myself, which might not be accessible through a resume alone. We're interdisciplinary students, we have layers of interests and skills, it's just a matter of showcasing the validity and the actual value of our degrees, and showcasing how our course of study has benefited and shaped us as capable individuals.
Peter, I really like how you said you mention in a reflection previous grades that may not have been wonderful. I had a rough semester a couple years ago, so what you're saying about basically explaining the mishap is something I can definitely relate to. I'm glad you touched on that.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I understand, the reflection helps to give the reader a more personal look at the individual, as opposed to a resume full of facts about the person. This allows for more creativity, expression, and may give the reader a new dimension on the candidate that a resume would not. I imagine I can use reflection in general in that manner, to give the reader a chance to see my values-- that I’m not just going through the motions at school, but that I’m very passionate about what I’m studying. I also want the reader to see that I’ve always been motivated, and it is therefore a character trait, not like an epiphany I just had (not that this would be a bad thing, that would also be positive for someone else...).
ReplyDeletePeter-- I’m glad you said something about including something negative in your reflection. I did not do very well in many of my classes when I was at SCC because of an untreated autistic spectrum disorder. There is no way to address that in a resume, but I might actually be able to use that as something good-- an obstacle that I overcame. I’ve always been paranoid, though, that someone might see that as a defect that I have, and might stop considering me for a position or for grad school because of it, even though I’m on medication for it now.
ReplyDeleteMary-- you changing your mind about what field(s) to specialize in sound a lot like what I went through. At one point I even considered comparative linguistics and marine biology! That’s a good idea, using it as a positive, as opposed to seeing it as being indecisive. I may use that...
ReplyDeleteEduardo I really liked what you said about the reflection allowing for creativity. Many people's resumes begin to look the same after a while, so its very important to be able to differentiate yourself by expressing you ambitions. The trait of being motivated shows future promise to an employer, and its great that it can be illustrated through the reflection.
ReplyDeleteMary, I agree with what you said about being interdisciplinary students. It is important to never lose sight of the fact that we must be showcasing our validity for each of our areas of study. Making sure our employer sees our areas of education are cohesive is an incredibly important task to achieve through our resume and e-portfolio.
ReplyDelete