COVA in Room 207

"So what do you want us to put on the About Me page?"

"Whatever you want."

"Yeah, but what?"

"It's about you... how do I know?"

"That's not helpful."

And then, something amazing happened. A light went on and she began to type and flip through her Instagram for that perfect picture.

When I introduced the idea of ePortfolios to my students, I was purposely vague and simplistic. I explained the why and they eagerly got to work. They know that these will be a showcase of their learning, and there will be some required pieces, but they couldn't quite grasp the freedom that also comes with this space. They all wanted to know what I wanted. They've been drilled to turn in assignment after assignment exactly how the teacher wants - in English class, this takes the form of the formulaic essay void of original voice or thought. But now I'm giving them freedom to explore and self-reflect and create something that is uniquely their own.

I've struggled with the same thing my students are facing - I understand my purpose, I know I "own" this, and this is my voice, but what does the person on the other end want? Ultimately, I came back to what I always tell my students. Create something you are proud of.