Some useful definitions in the context of using Mahara:

ePortfolio - An electronic portfolio is an online collection of reflections and digital artefacts that students and staff can use to demonstrate their development over time to various audiences. Wikipedia has a page on ePortfolios.

Artefacts – Artefacts are items and information that ePortfolio users can create both within and outside of their portfolio. Within Mahara Artefacts include images, documents, blogs, personal information and resumé information.

View – A "web page" that gives users the chance to show off artefacts in their portfolio to others.

Groups – Collections of users, gathered around a common purpose or task. Users can collaborate on creating group Views, and build their community through Group Forums.