This study investigates the advantages and challenges of integrating e-portfolios, built on general-purpose cloud tools, into elementary school English education. E-portfolios are recognized for fostering student-centered and reflective learning, promoting metacognition, peer interaction, and formative assessment. However, their practical implementation in primary education faces constraints such as limited time and varying technical proficiency. To explore real-world applications, we conducted semi-structured interviews with three experienced elementary school teachers who had utilized Google for Education-based e-portfolios for over a year. Qualitative data were analyzed to identify recurring themes regarding both benefits and challenges. The analysis involved the extraction and categorization of advantages and considerations from interview transcripts by the first and second authors, with all authors finalizing the themes and their descriptions. Our analysis revealed five key advantages: (1) enhanced comparative activities (with peers and past work); (2) improved teacher assessment efficiency; (3) increased opportunities for learner autonomy; (4) enriched learning outcomes (e.g., deeper reflections, higher-quality student performance); and (5) greater efficiency in managing learning processes. Conversely, four main considerations emerged: (1) varying digital literacy levels among students and teachers; (2) limited class time for e-portfolio use; (3) the need to clearly communicate e-portfolio benefits to students; and (4) constraints in providing individualized feedback. These findings suggest that while e-portfolios offer significant educational value, successful integration necessitates institutional support, technical training, and thoughtful instructional design. This study contributes to the understanding of effective digital portfolio use in elementary foreign language education and provides practical insights for future implementation.

Authors:
Aki Ohta, Beppu University Junior College, Japan
Shin Kurata, Nagasaki University, Japan
Emiko Izumi, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
I am Ohta Aki, a professor in the Department of Elementary Education at Beppu University Junior College. My research focuses on English education in elementary schools, especially in learning assessment, teacher training, and ICT use.

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