Success Factors

What are the key results and outcomes of the initiative?

The EELLS project has achieved its aims and objectives but the development work in implementing a functional service was greater than anticipated and not all aspects of the original vision were achievable within the short duration of the project. Although the EELLS system is a functional e-portfolio system, further development will be required to ensure the provision of a robust service to the region. However, the File repository and Showcase builder utilities developed by the EELLS project have been utilized by other projects including the Learning Matrix, PDP4Life and EELLS in turn benefited from the developments achieved by these projects.

Building on the SHELL Project, EELLS has developed a Learner Portal with utilities that enable learners to:

• Upload and store documents, images and film
• Potentially have data from institutional transcripts copied to the learner's record
• Build and develop a CV
• Create an interactive showcase to which access can be granted to designated audiences (potential employer, etc)
• Potentially plan personal development and reflect on experience
• Potentially view a catalogue of current courses offered within the region

Feedback from the pilots has been positive showing that most users generally understand the potential applications of the service and grasped the technical aspects. Some additional requirements were identified and most have been included in the final software development. The feedback demonstrated a viable market for an e-portfolio service that transcends institutional boundaries and is available throughout the life of a learner.

What follow-up activity will be/has been carried out as a result of the project?

Agreement has been reached with MOVE (the Lifelong Learning Network of the East of England) to continue the e-portfolio service developed by EELLS as part of their services to the region. The intention for the future of the system is to provide a free service to the region.

The EELLS server will remain at the University of Hertfordshire. The University of Hertfordshire will provide operational management of the service. Collaboration between both DeL and other projects has been key to the current and ongoing success of the EELLS project. In particular synergies with PDP4Life, the developments of the Learning Matrix and the use of systems such as LUSID and the Icebox have used by a number of other projects.