A portfolio assessment is an alternative method of evaluating a student's skills, knowledge, and progress by collecting a curated selection of their work over time. The portfolio may include essays, projects, artwork, lab reports, reflections, videos, or any other artifacts that demonstrate learning. It is often used in education, especially in creative fields like art, design, and writing but is also increasingly applied in broader academic and professional contexts.

Portfolios are typically assessed based on pre-determined rubrics, evaluating aspects such as creativity, critical thinking, mastery of skills, and depth of reflection. This aims to provide a holistic and comprehensive picture of a student’s learning journey, growth, and achievements.

Unlike single standardized tests, portfolios showcase a range of skills and a learner's progression over time. By selecting and reflecting on their work, students develop metacognitive skills and a deeper understanding of their own learning process. Further, portfolios allow students to highlight their unique strengths, especially in areas that traditional tests may overlook, such as creativity or practical skills. It mirrors real-world practices, especially in professional or creative fields, where individuals are often judged on the body of their work. The process of building a portfolio often fosters a sense of ownership and motivation, as students take an active role in documenting their achievements.

However, creating and evaluating portfolios is a labor-intensive process for both students and instructors. The assessment of portfolios can be subjective, even with rubrics, leading to potential inconsistencies. Also, managing physical or digital portfolios may require resources such as technology, storage, or access to specialized tools. While a portfolio reflects individual effort, it may not easily allow for comparison across students, limiting its use in standardized contexts. Students with stronger organizational or artistic skills may excel, potentially disadvantaging those who struggle in these areas.

Portfolio assessment is a powerful tool for evaluating skills, creativity, and learning progress, particularly in areas where traditional tests fail to capture the full range of student abilities. It is especially effective in disciplines that value process and creativity, such as art, writing, or project-based work. However, its time and resource demands, combined with challenges in standardization, make it less suitable for large-scale or high-stakes assessments.