A reminder on how to effectively and aesthetically design ePortfolios
Design tips to remember
A well designed ePortfolio displays its contents in a way that is easily viewable, navigable, and interesting for the viewer. To achieve this we utilize the general 3X5 design rule. This rule is a general guideline and is not a requirement, but rather a check to ensure you are using effective design strategies and layouts to display your ePortfolios contents.
Images are a good tool to break up large walls of text, fill negative space, add movement, and provide visual interest to your ePortfolio. Using personal images you've captured is a great way to add a personal touch to your ePortfolio.
Pull-out quotes are segments of your text that are highlighted in a visible way outside of the paragraph. Try to pull quotes that are impactful or express the sentiment of your larger paragraphs.
Hyperlinks can be used for more than just navigation. Link to referenced material to add context to your ePortfolio and to connect your ePortfolio to other bodies of work you've created.
Contextualizing moments are instances of text, images, hyperlinks, or pull-out quotes that provide context within your ePortfolio. These instance of context can help create a sense of cohesiveness within the ePortoflio and can help tell a story within your portfolio. An ePortfolio with an throughline story of your journey, goals, and passion are the basis of a truly great ePortoflio
These are design elements that modify text placement and organization to enhance readability and engagement of your ePortfolio. No one wants to read a wall of text, so try breaking it up. A general rule of thumb is no more than 9 lines in a paragraph. Other paragraph principles include varying the length of paragraphs, including different text placements, and avoiding dense and repetive writing.
How do you apply the 3X5 design strategies as you construct your ePortfolio? Just adding images, pull-out quotes, and hyperlinks randomly doesn't add anything to your ePortfolio but extra elements. Implementation of 3X5 design requires you to add these elements in an intentional way that adds to the design, navigability, and function of your ePortfolio.
Watch the video included to gain a better understanding of 3X5 design and how to implement this strategy in your ePortfolio.
Visit the ePortfolio Studio on campus to get assistance with ePortoflio design and construction. Make an appointment today, in-person or online!
Images can be used to provide context, visual interest, and personality to your ePortoflio. During the selection of images, focus on finding images that represent your content well and keep a consistent style of images. Photos taken by you durng your experience are the gold standard, but stock photos are okay as well.
Search this site or the Wix H-200 example site and identify one effective use of an image. Describe why it is effective and what it accomplishes.
Search this site or the Wix H-200 example site and identify one effective use of a pull-out quote. Describe why it is effective and what it accomplishes.
Pull-out quotes are quotes from your text or referenced sources that provide context or are particuarly impactful. When selecting quotes, focus on text that summarizes longer blocks of text or that will increase audience interest and engagement.
There are two types of hyperlinks, internal and external, and either can be used to achieve 3X5 design. You should select the type which best aligns with the goal of you page.
Internal hyperlinks add internal navigation and connectedness to your ePortfolio. If you are referencing to other sections or experiences within your ePortolfio, internal hyperlinks can help to add context and audience engagement.
External hyperlinks add external context and allow for cross-ePortfolio connection. When referencing experiences, external hyperlinks can provide context about the program or organization the experience occurred with or provide background information to aid audience understanding.
Search this site or the Wix H-200 example site and identify one effective use of an internal hyperlink. Describe why it is effective and what it accomplishes.
Search this site or the Wix H-200 example site and identify one effective use of an external hyperlink. Describe why it is effective and what it accomplishes.
The ePortfolio studio offers in-person and virtual consultation appointments with student ePortfolio experts. Any format, any course, almost any time, and at no cost! If you don't know where to start, schedule your appointment ASAP. Whether your stuck on a draft you don't love or starting from scratch, the ePortfolio studio can help.