9 Compelling Features of a Narrative Portfolio

Considering alignment and reflection, you can structure your teaching portfolio in a way that tells a coherent story of your teaching journey. Ensure that your narrative flows smoothly throughout the portfolio, with each section building upon the previous one. Approach your portfolio with a focus on conveying meaning, impact, and growth.

Meaning and Authenticity

Underscoring the meaning and purpose behind your teaching practice adds depth and authenticity to your portfolio. By articulating the underlying beliefs, values, and motivations that drive your teaching philosophy and approach, you convey a sense of purpose and passion for teaching. Sharing personal anecdotes, experiences, and transformative moments in your teaching journey helps humanize your portfolio and establish a genuine connection with your audience.

Impact

Emphasizing the impact of your teaching on student learning outcomes is crucial for demonstrating your effectiveness as an educator. Your portfolio should place a strong emphasis on student learning and engagement. Narrate how your teaching strategies, instructional methods, and classroom environment have influenced student motivation, participation, and achievement. This scholarly approach should draw on evidence and reflect upon the learning impacts, showcasing how your practices have fostered student growth and success.

Growth

Emphasizing growth in your teaching portfolio demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and lifelong learning as an educator. Share how your teaching practice has evolved over time, the lessons learned from successes and failures, and your areas for continued growth, as well as how you plan to integrate new ideas, approaches, and technologies.