Within a conceptual and research framework about the usefulness of portfolios, this book suggests methods to organize the process, and provides tools that will be used not only during preparation programs but also for professional and academic advancement. Key features include: (1) Provides a conceptual framework for portfolio development: Readers are given descriptions about how portfolios are designed and used, and are guided through the process of selecting, organizing, evaluating, and presenting portfolio artifacts; an entire chapter is devoted to developing an electronic portfolio); (2) Emphasizes institutional processes: Attention is given to the role of standards in the development of portfolio rubrics and evaluation; and (3) Offers real-life scenarios: Real world examples connect the reader to the portfolio process and make the experience of developing the portfolio more relevant to practice; visuals help create a concrete representation of the material for the learner and templates provide hands-on tools. Accompanying CD includes PowerPoint[R] slides, video clips, templates, sample documents, and electronic links for creating a portfolio. This text is designed for undergraduate or graduate teacher preparation courses including Introduction to the Teaching Profession, Introduction to Classroom Management, Instruction and Assessment, Reflection and Evaluation, and Field-Based Experience. It is also a resource for in-service teachers, administrators, and counselors. Following introductions for students and teachers, the book is divided into two parts. Part I, The Rationale for Developing Portfolios, includes: (1) Why Develop a Portfolio?; (2) Using Portfolios as Tools for Authentic Assessment and Evaluation; and (3) The portfolio as a Tool for Reflective Inquiry: Moving from Vision to Reality. Part II, A Guide on Developing Portfolios, includes: (4) Organizing and Implementing the Portfolio: A Developmental Process; (5) Contents of the Portfolio; (6) Presenting and Sharing the Portfolio; (7) Electronic Portfolios; and (8) After the Credential Program, Now What? Keeping the Portfolio Alive. A list of references and an index are included.