University Presentation Showcase: Graduate Poster Gallery
Preview
Creation Date
Spring 2018
Major
English
Department
English and Theatre
Degree
Graduate
Mentor
Russell Carpenter
Mentor Department
English and Theatre
Abstract
The presenters provide an analysis of research conducted in Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Noel Studio for Academic Creativity that reveals trends and patterns in student communication processes within ePortfolio design. Many communication centers (including EKU’s Noel Studio for Academic Creativity) offer workshops, classes, and other forms of programming to support students as they plan and design ePortfolios. Building on 2015 findings (Fairchild & Carpenter, 2015), the presenters offer results of an ongoing study that analyzed five categories of the communication process in an ePortfolio bootcamp experience that took place in the communication center:
· concept originality,
· aesthetic quality,
· digital presentation,
· writing, and
· formatting.
The presenters also paid special attention to the visual aspect of the ePortfolio design process including a focus on digital literacy, a potential digital divide, and digital pedagogy. Specifically, the presenters explored gaps for students learning to use technology for ePortfolio design and how to circumvent those issues. EKU services the Appalachian region of Eastern Kentucky and, as Lee Skallerup Bessette (2012) explains, Appalachia is “one of America’s poorest regions” which showcases many different and unique issues for students composing with technology that are addressed with this research. Finally, the presenters offer suggestions for increased involvement and comprehension with regards to ePortfolios and digital pedagogy.
