PebblePad

PebblePad is a technology company that provides an e-portfolio and personal learning platform designed for higher education institutions. The company was founded in 2004 by Shane Sutherland and Colin Dalziel. Sutherland, the current CEO, has a background in outdoor education and saw the potential for technology to support and evidence learning experiences long before it became mainstream. This vision led to the creation of PebblePad, a platform focused on student-centered and experiential learning.

The core offering is a Learning Journey Platform that enables universities to support and develop the entire student journey. It moves beyond traditional assessment methods to facilitate a more holistic approach to learning. Key features include the ability for students to create rich, reflective portfolios of their work, skills, and experiences. These portfolios can be used for various purposes, including formative and summative assessment, professional development, and showcasing achievements to potential employers. The platform supports a wide range of learning activities, from structured templates and workbooks to student-led projects and placements.

PebblePad's business model is based on providing its software as a service (SaaS) to educational institutions worldwide. Its client base includes universities in Australia, the UK, Europe, and North America. The company emphasizes its commitment to pedagogy over technology, aiming to enhance learning outcomes rather than simply digitizing existing processes. This focus has resulted in the platform being recognized for its capability in scaffolding end-to-end learning journeys and making a tangible difference to student success.

Keywords: e-portfolio, personal learning, higher education, assessment platform, experiential learning, student success, SaaS, learning journey, digital credentials, pedagogy