Final answer:
Students create digital portfolios to collect evidence of learning, reflect on their educational journey, and showcase their work for college applications or to share with family and employers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Having students create a digital portfolio serves several educational purposes. Not only does it allow students to collect evidence of learning over time, which can include written work, digital media, and other project contributions, but it also creates a space for them to reflect on their personal learning journey. These reflections can include analysis of their own writing, the understanding of the context in which the work was created, and the progression of their skills.
A digital portfolio can be especially valuable in showcasing a student's accomplishments in a college application. It allows prospective colleges to see a breadth of a student's work and their development over time. Additionally, a portfolio can be shared with family members or potential employers to provide a holistic view of a student’s abilities and achievements.