What is the portfolio and why do I need it?
A portfolio is a collection of items that document a professional’s career. There are many times that it is important to have such a collection. A portfolio can be used to demonstrate expertise to apprentices you are instructing, training directors and accreditation teams, just to name a few. For the next four years during your time at the National Training Institute, you will be developing your own professional portfolio.
Your portfolio will:
- Allow you to make the critical connections between crafts person and instructor.
- Demonstrate your professional experience both as a craftsman and as an instructor.
- Make a connection between what you learn at NTI and how you apply it in your classroom.
- Let you re-evaluate your classroom performance to become a better instructor.
- Keep you organized.
- Keep you on track in your professional growth.
How do I get started?
Your portfolio will begin with year one and will continue through year four. Items for the portfolio will include assignments created and revised as part of the NTI courses, as well as other trade and career related documents. “Connecting activities” will be completed between each year and are critical components of the portfolio. In addition, you can include items deemed appropriate by you or your NTI instructors that relate to the individual sections of the portfolio.
What will the finished product be?
When you graduate from this program, your professional portfolio will be a compilation of all of the competencies critical to your success as a craftsman and top-notch instructor. It will include items such as your resume and other professional documents, sample lesson plans, learning modules, philosophy statements, educational transcripts, technical completion certificates and your diploma as a graduate of the National Training Institute. You already have many of these items. Other documents will be developed over the course of your time at the NTI. You will see your portfolio come to life over the next few years, but it will begin to take shape immediately!
Can I see an example of what the Portfolio will look like when finished?
Yes, here is a sample Portfolio you can download. Download the PDF version.
Can I view the PowerPoint Presentation that was shown at the portfolio seminar?
Absolutely! Download the PDF version.
What will be required for each year?
Most of the requirements were completed during the summer portion of NTI, with just a few additional activities to complete as the year unfolds. We call these “connecting activities.”
Am I required to create a portfolio?
Yes, in your Fourth year you will be displaying your portfolios to all First year participants. You may be asked questions and suggestions to those that are just starting this assignment.