E_PORTFOLIO as an Alternate Assessment in the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics

Abstract

The aim of the mathematics curriculum is to enable the development of students?ability in mathematical problem solving. This attainment is dependent on five inter-related components, namely, concepts, skills, processes, attitudes and metacognition. Pencil and paper assessment such as class tests and textbook exercises have served schools well in ensuring that students mastered core skills and processes. Nevertheless, these are limited in their scope in informing us about students? achievement in the area of positive attitudes and metacogntion. To provide a more holistic assessment of students?progress, a "composite index of the students?learning, reflection and efforts?would be useful. A collection of students?diverse work that goes beyond tests and textbook exercises, captured in a portfolio would be more comprehensive in charting the growth of students? learning and achievement. This presentation seeks to explore the use of IT in creating digital portfolio to showcase students?work and learning. In addition, the platform would allow other students to view and comment on each other work. A e-portfolio format would provide a more borderless media for students to define how their learning and effort could be demonstrate and represented. The use of the e-portfolio was tried out on a small sample of students. While the use of e_portfolio has pedagogical benefits, there were also implementation challenges. Insights and reflection on the learning gained on the part of both teachers and students will be highlighted.