Getting Started with your EWP or FIG Portfolio

The Expository Writing Program (EWP) and Freshman Interest Group (FIG) Program both use Catalyst Portfolio and Portfolio Project Builder. The information presented below on getting started with Catalyst Portfolio is a part of the student guide for those programs. The information will also be useful for others seeking to replicate the scaffolded portfolio approach used by EWP and the FIG program.

Creating a Home Page

The first page of the portfolio functions as the home page. Therefore, it is important to use the contents of this page to orient the reader to the portfolio and introduce its author. Here are a few tips to get started:

• The title of the first page is the first thing a reader will see when he or she views the portfolio. Give the page a title that serves as an introduction to the portfolio as a whole. Use a relatively brief title, since it will also become a part of the navigation on the left.
• Be sure to introduce the author--otherwise the reader will not know who created the portfolio.
• Provide a brief introduction to the portfolio as a whole, explaining its overall purpose.

Individuals creating a portfolio from an open portfolio project that does not include a section for an introduction to the portfolio can either add a new section for this purpose or add a new page that can serve as the home page. Individuals creating a portfolio from a locked portfolio project will not be able to edit the page title, add sections, or add pages, but they can provide readers with some introductory information in the opening section of the portfolio.

Some Pointers on Visual Design

An effective portfolio has a clear hierarchy of information. Section headings and groupings of artifacts with commentary should be logical and easily understood. When adding content to a portfolio and establishing the style for the portfolio, keep the following tips in mind:

• Repetitive elements, both within a page and between pages, make the portfolio consistent and unified. Try to use the same font sizes, background colors, and formatting techniques.
• Readability, is crucial, so make sure that the portfolio elements contrast well. For example, dark colored fonts on dark backgrounds or light colored fonts on light backgrounds make for poor readability.
• Make sure that the graphics and images complement the purpose of the portfolio. They should clearly relate to the text and illustrate the themes, impressions, or messages that the portfolio conveys.