A photographer usually has a portfolio of his or her most impressive pictures. The portfolio is used to demonstrate the photographer's personal style and abilities.
Portfolios used for educational purposes are quite different.
Their purpose is to document and enrich a process of learning. They may contain significant accomplishments and also any record of an advancement in knowledge or ability, with a short reflective essay that explains the personal changes the student has noticed. When students are encouraged to reflect on the learning experience, they tend to become active participants rather than passive observers. This improves the quality of education for both students and teachers. Portfolios have been used most to teach reading and writing in primary and secondary education.