Abstract: This response to the typologies paper of Janet Strivens suggests that, while such an approach provides
a welcome contribution to a necessary debate, the focus should be more fully upon the portfolio as a
presentational device (including presentation to the author). While the typologies presented by
Strivens, emphasise presentation of self (‘me’ portfolios), an increasing focus in the UK at least is upon
task-oriented portfolios where the demonstration of engagement or achievement rather than personal
development is to the fore. The primary contention here is that the interplay between underlying factors
(the focus of the message contained within the portfolio, the nature of the content, and the expectations
of the audience) will determine whether the portfolio presentation tends towards the narrative style, the
collection, or the competency style – in essence - determining the format of the portfolio.
Reflections on the typology
Sutherland, S. (2015). Reflections on the typology. The International Journal for Recording Achievement, Planning and Portfolios, 1(1), 6–10. http://www.recordingachievement.ac.uk/index.php/news-and-events/publications/rapport-sample/item/625-issue-1.html