Which document is primarily used by prospective teachers to showcase their professional skills?

The portfolio is the primary document that prospective teachers use to showcase their professional skills. It serves as a comprehensive collection of work that highlights their teaching philosophies, lesson plans, assessments, student feedback, and other relevant materials that demonstrate their abilities and experiences in an educational setting.

A portfolio allows teachers to present a well-rounded view of their qualifications, pedagogical approaches, and growth over time. It can be tailored to meet the requirements of different teaching positions, showcasing specific skills and achievements that align with the needs of potential employers.

Other options, while relevant to the teaching profession, do not provide the same level of detail or personalization as a portfolio. A résumé offers a summary of experience and education but does not delve into the teaching practices or philosophies in the same way. A teaching license verifies that a teacher has met certain qualifications, and a credentials file may contain recommendations and transcripts without the personal touch and comprehensive insights provided by a portfolio.