Cova Reflection and Application
My journey through the Applied Digital Learning program at Lamar University has been transformative, particularly through the COVA approach (Harapnuik, 2018) and the creation of Significant Learning Environments. I first realized I had genuine choice, ownership, and voice in my learning during this program, especially while developing my Innovation Plan to integrate ePortfolios across grades PK-12 for EDLD 5305. This plan allowed me to tailor a project that was deeply aligned with my professional interests and goals.
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Dr. H’s emphasis that this was our project and unique to our audience was both liberating and daunting. In traditional educational settings, assignments often come with strict guidelines and expectations. Here, I was given the freedom to explore and develop something meaningful to me and my organization. This autonomy was initially overwhelming, but it quickly became a source of motivation and engagement.
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When given the responsibility to take ownership of my learning through an authentic project, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. I wasn’t entirely ready for this freedom, so I began by thoroughly researching best practices and the benefits of ePortfolios. This initial research phase helped me build a solid foundation of knowledge and gain the confidence needed to move forward with my project.
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To adapt to this new style of learning, I set clear personal goals and timelines, which helped me manage the project effectively. I also made it a point to seek feedback regularly and be open to iterative improvement. Looking back, I realize that I could have embraced this approach with more confidence from the start. Recognizing that taking risks is integral to learning was a key takeaway from this experience.
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Adjusting to the COVA approach involved actively seeking feedback and being open to making changes based on that feedback. It was challenging to take control of my voice and focus on my organization as the audience. However, this process was incredibly rewarding as it taught me the importance of aligning my work with real-world applications.
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Collaborating with peers earlier in the process would have provided valuable diverse perspectives to enhance my project. Engaging with classmates and colleagues helped me refine my ideas and approach, ensuring that the integration of ePortfolios would be both practical and impactful.
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Initially, I had mixed feelings about promoting change within my organization. The idea of implementing ePortfolios across grades PK-12 seemed ambitious and daunting. However, as the program progressed, my attitude towards leading change evolved significantly. I now see the immense value and impact of innovation in education. The confidence I gained through the ADL program has translated into my professional life, where I now speak up more, share my ideas more intentionally, and engage more effectively with my colleagues.
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My innovation plan to integrate ePortfolios was not just a course requirement; it was a genuine effort to create positive change within my organization. The COVA approach and CSLE align perfectly with my learning philosophy, which now emphasizes student autonomy and real-world relevance. This experience has shifted my perspective on learning to focus more on engaging, authentic assignments that provide students with choice, ownership, and voice.
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With a solid understanding of the COVA approach, I plan to use it to create significant learning environments in my organization. This involves providing learners with choice, ownership, and voice through authentic assignments, specifically through the implementation of ePortfolios. By designing projects that are relevant to students' interests and professional contexts, I aim to foster deeper engagement and more meaningful learning experiences.
Preparing learners and colleagues for the COVA approach and CSLE will be a crucial part of this implementation. Clear communication and ongoing support will be essential. I plan to introduce the principles of COVA and demonstrate its benefits through examples and success stories. Providing resources and training will help ease the transition to this new learning style. Workshops and continuous professional development sessions will be integral in ensuring everyone is comfortable and confident in using ePortfolios.
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One of the main challenges in using the COVA approach and CSLE will be overcoming resistance to change. Some educators and students may be accustomed to traditional, structured learning environments and may find it difficult to adapt. To address this, I will emphasize the long-term benefits of the COVA approach and provide ongoing support and encouragement. Showcasing successful implementations of ePortfolios will help illustrate their effectiveness and potential.
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Fully adopting a learner’s mindset involves a shift in thinking about learning, approaching it as an ongoing, dynamic process rather than a finite task. This change has already started within me, as I’ve become more open to feedback and willing to iterate on my ideas. The COVA approach and CSLE have played a significant role in this transformation, highlighting the importance of autonomy, relevance, and student engagement.
Moving forward, I will continue to develop and implement new ideas in my district, aiming to create significant learning environments where teachers and students are motivated by genuine interest rather than obligation. My goal is to inspire others to adopt a learner’s mindset and embrace the principles of COVA and CSLE, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
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The COVA approach and CSLE have profoundly impacted my learning journey, transforming my mindset and approach to education. By integrating ePortfolios in grades PK-12 and providing learners with choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning opportunities, I aim to create significant learning environments that inspire and engage. Through clear communication, support, and a commitment to fostering a learner’s mindset, I believe we can overcome challenges and drive meaningful change within our organizations. This journey has shown me the power of autonomy in learning and the importance of aligning educational practices with real-world applications, ultimately leading to more effective and engaging education for all students.
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References:
Harapnuik, D. (2018, July 14). COVA. It's About Learning. Retrieved March 22, 2024, from https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=6991