Collections for reflection: the transformative potential of portfolios in medical education

Abstract

Portfolios are a widely used, yet unproven, means for supporting self-regulated learning (SRL) and reflection skills in medical training. This research aimed to clarify how portfolios and their individual tasks support the three phases of SRL (performance, reflection, and planning) during the first two years of medicine. Four studies were conducted using a qualitative longitudinal approach from a social constructionist perspective. Informed by socio-cultural learning theories, the studies explored the changing perceptions, and approaches of medical students to self-assessment and three portfolio tasks - evidence collection, reflection, and supported reflection with mentors. The findings revealed new insights into the factors influencing informed self-assessment (ISA), the transformative potential of portfolio artefacts, and the conditions under which mentor meetings support reflection and planning during the transition to medicine. Photographic self-portraits emerged as a novel approach to documenting and stimulating discussions on professional identity development (PID). A conceptual model for how portfolios support SRL based on Transformative Learning and SRL theories and the research findings provides a foundation for portfolio design and delivery and future research. The conclusions drawn from this research are that portfolios can support SRL through reflection on collections of evidence when evidence is scaffolded to ensure curriculum representation, student achievement and transformative experiences. SRL outcomes depend on the evidence collected, its meaning to the student, and support for critical reflection, PID and planning. Student reservations about portfolios and portfolio tasks need to be anticipated and managed through instruction, and student-mentor relationships need to be fostered through mentor training and support.

Date of Award	2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Western Sydney University
Supervisor	Wendy Hu (Supervisor)