The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of applying portfolio assessment in a music appreciation course, the effects on students' learning, and the challenges confronted by the teacher in a university of technology in Taiwan. The researcher used one of his music appreciation courses as a research site, and data was collected during the Spring semester, 2008. It was found that portfolio assessment contributed to undergraduates' music knowledge and learning motivation. It was also found that students participated in the class more actively in the end of the semester than in the beginning and appreciated the use of portfolios to engage themselves in becoming more active and responsible learners.