Dmap.ci.qut.edu.au
In this research I have examined how ePortfolios can be designed for Music postgraduate study through a practice led research inquiry. This process involved designing two Web 2.0 ePortfolio systems for a group of five post graduate music research students. The design process revolved around the application of an iterative methodology called Software Develop as Research (SoDaR) that seeks to simultaneously develop design and pedagogy. The approach I implemented to designing these ePortfolio systems applied four theoretical protocols to examine the use of digitised artefacts in ePortfolio systems to enable a dynamic and inclusive dialogue around representations of the students work.
The research and design process involved an analysis of existing software and literature with a focus upon identifying the affordances of available Web 2.0 software and the applications of these ideas within 21st Century life. The five post graduate music students each posed different needs in relation to the management of digitised artefacts and the communication of their work amongst peers, supervisors and public display. An ePortfolio was developed for each of them that was flexible enough to address their needs within the university setting.
Steve Dillon, Director, Save To DISC (Documenting Innovation in Sound Communities)
“Paul has combined academic rigor with action based design principles to complete an exemplary Master of Arts Research about ePortfolio systems. He has applied protocols and ethical frameworks to develop a unique and practical approach to using Web 2.0 blogs and audio visual representations to present both research materials and a digital CV. Paul is an extremely helpful and commited worker who has great creative and organisational skills which manifest well in a technologically mediated world.” July 6, 2010