This review has presented various learning orientations framed in behaviorist, cognitivist, humanist, social learning, and constructivist orientations to learning that constitute the psycho-pedagogical support of portfolio in the context of medical education. Given the current climate of change, medical educators need to become conversant with different learning theories to create appropriate learning environments and optimize self-directed and self-reflective learning through the portfolio. In conclusion the development of a portfolio among adult learners it is based in the theories of andragogy and self-directed learning and parameters relating to the progressive improvement, critical dialogue, argumentation and cognitive flexibility.