Implementing an e-portfolio for non-medical prescribing modules

This article discusses the implementation of a web-based e-portfolio into non-medical prescribing (NMP) modules at the University of Huddersfield. The e-portfolio adopted has all the elements of the former paper-based document. A key advantage of implementing an e-portfolio is the contribution it makes to the National Information Board's (2015) digital priorities for health and social care. The e-portfolio can equip NMP students, as part of the wider health-care workforce, with digital skills and knowledge that are appropriate to their role and also their impending prescribing role. Adopting an e-portfolio within the NMP modules has brought many benefits, including strengthened assessment methods in terms of authenticity, reliability and mentor preparation. The main challenges experienced were related to the IT literacy and skills of participants, as well as computer or internet access issues in the workplace; these challenges were similar to those faced by Moule et al (2011). The module team overcame these issues through continual review of the assessment strategies being deployed and the functionality of the e-portfolio.