Ethical issues posed by the instructor add an important dimension to scientific explanation by allowing students to integrate science and social perspectives. Changing emphasis on content means students need to learn the subject through integration of all disciplines within a few fundamental concepts. Energy and hydrologic budgets are two such concepts that are consistently examined in most topics. Post-lecture activities allow student to apply the concept to a new situation, thereby further developing their abilities of inquiry. The portfolio lists each of these items and clearly states the standards for acceptable and outstanding work for each item.
Students electronically submit completed assignments which are then appended to their portfolio.
In addition, any responses students receive from other electronic dialog participants is also appended to their portfolio, providing students with the opportunity to pursue further dialog. The portfolio offers the student the opportunity to participate in the evolving development of a finished product under guidance of the instructor. The student is able to observe how standards are enforced and actively participate in the process of moving their work to a higher standard. The portfolio provides an extra dimension for assessing student capabilities because it reveals not only students' abilities to master major topics of the course but also how they respond to challenges to meet higher standards. It also provides students with a record of their development process which they can use for self-analysis and reflection on their own learning process.