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Volume 30 (1)
Volume 30, Issue 1, Winter 2010
J Contin Educ Health Prof 2010; 30(1):57-64
ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Learning portfolio models in health regulatory colleges of Ontario, Canada
Marianne Tompkins, Denise Paquette-Frenette
A b s t r a c t
Introduction: Health regulatory colleges promote continued competence by requiring members to submit yearly
portfolios that document learning. Previous studies conclude that portfolios can be valuable tools to promote
continuous learning in health college members, but portfolios are time-consuming to complete and difficult to
evaluate. This exploratory study compares the features of portfolio models in regulatory colleges, as a basis for
future studies.
Methods: Data were collected through a document review of the portfolio models described on the Web sites of
14 Canadian health regulatory colleges.
Results: All models contain 3 common components of self-directed learning: (1) self-diagnosis, (2) learning plan
and activities, and (3) self-evaluation. Several include member profiles and peer feedback. A broad range of formal,
nonformal, and informal activities are accepted as evidence of learning; a few colleges restrict learners’ freedom
in selecting these activities.
Discussion: There is a dual philosophy of learning in portfolio models that includes both humanist and technical
paradigms. Low numbers of members are selected for audit of completed portfolios. The possibility of last-minute
preparation and the lack of support to members who struggle with self-directed learning methods are issues to be
resolved. Although portfolios are designed to enhance learning and reflection, quality cannot be ensured unless
compliance is enforced, and learning outcomes are measured. Professionals should be guided regarding how to
complete portfolios. More health regulatory colleges should announce the number of portfolios they audit. In general,
the number of portfolios audited by each profession may need to be increased.
Lessons for Practice
- It is essential that health regulatory colleges
define quality assurance programs according
to the practices, professional culture, and
identity of their members.
- To help members complete the portfolio
process, colleges should provide direct
support, especially to teach skills in selfdiagnosis
of learning needs.
- Colleges should evaluate a larger proportion
of members’ learning portfolios every
year or develop ways to ensure more portfolios
are being examined.
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