Description provides context. Reflections share meaning! Both description and reflection are necessary pieces of narrative that should be found in your e-portfolio.

OK... link to project report

MISBD 430: Systems Analysis

Without a description, this project link leaves the reader with no clue as to what is coming next!

BETTER... link to project report and short description

MISBD 430: Systems Analysis
Performed system analysis of L.L. Bean inventory tracking system using Use Cases and Data Flow Diagrams to maximize system efficiency.

As you think and write about the evidence that you have selected to include in your e-portfolio you naturally begin by describing this evidence. But don't let it stop there. Why did you include this in your e-portfolio?

BETTER YET... link to project report, short description and reflective comment

MISBD 430: Systems Analysis
Performed system analysis of L.L. Bean inventory tracking system using Use Cases and Data Flow Diagrams to maximize system efficiency. I found through this exercise that a thorough and detailed review of all aspects of a complex distribution system is an essential component of being able to make reliable recommendations.

Review this narrative from a typical "About Me" page.

Hello my name is Amber Whittaker and I am from Latrobe, Pennsylvania. I have a large interest in the outdoors and I am very interested in Environmental projects and policies. I am currently working in Virginia under William Cahill, a wetlands biologist. Our research consists of taking water , plant and soil samples to study the environmental factors affecting the wildlife in these areas.

Every sentence above is descriptive. This is great - but, WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? What is the point for including this statement in an e-portfolio?

This paragraph tells me what Amber is involved in but we have no idea why?

Compare this to another narrative, also, from an "About Me" page:

I have worked with customers or in groups since I began working. I learned from an early age that working with others is a trying experience, and I think I have benefited tremendously from it. Seldom are we actually working by ourselves or self employed. Having worked in a group setting for so long has taught me patience, as well as understanding.

Here we also find out about what someone is involved in, but most important, we catch a knowing glimpse of why this is important to them, what they think about it. The reflection provides insight that description can not.

Use this rubric to see how your writing stacks up.

What comment would a reader make of your narrative?

[Student examples used with permission]

Special Thanks to Joe Schall, Giles Writer in Residence, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences and Audrey Fielding, consultant with the Strategic Literacy Initiative at WestEd and the Bay Area Writing Program.