5320 Synthesis of Digital Learning

5320

Synthesis of Digital Learning and Leadership

My Applied Digital Learning Journey

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Image created on Canva by mmontemayor

Teaching wasn't my original career path; it became my calling after a life-changing event led me to reconsider my direction. Though juggling work and single parenthood put my educational dreams on hold for years, I’m grateful to have finally pursued my graduate studies. Lamar University was the perfect fit due to its affordability and program length.

Starting grad school after three decades was daunting, but the ADL program has felt like a natural extension of my teaching philosophy. With concepts like growth mindset, the “power of yet,” and grit shaping my approach, I’ve learned to inspire my students by showing them that progress is possible with effort and resilience. I strive to help them build self-confidence, overcome fixed mindsets, and see that their capabilities grow through persistence. Angela Duckworth’s “grit” resonates with me deeply, reinforcing my determination to guide students toward a resilient mindset, one small success at a time.

The ADL program has been both rewarding and challenging. Initially, I felt unsure about assignments and often revised my approach. This self-doubt stemmed from not having taken a college course in years. After the first two courses, I gained confidence and found my rhythm. I discovered that I thrive in a project-based setting, where using creativity to execute assignments makes learning more meaningful. Completing assignments from start to finish has solidified these concepts in my own teaching, enhancing my practice through real application proving that the COVA approach really works.

As I near the end of the program, I feel a mix of emotions—elated to earn my Master’s degree but also sad that this journey is ending. I’ve truly enjoyed the courses, meeting professors, and collaborating with my cohort. Overall, my ADL experience with Lamar University has been a positive, impactful journey, both personally and professionally.

Learning Philosophy

A teacher can’t be successful in the classroom without possessing a growth mindset. Teachers need a lot of grit to tackle difficult situations and maintaining a positive outlook in the classroom spills over to the students and is key to both the teacher and students' success.

Content Gamification

Educators can use content gamification platforms such as Quizziz, Kahoot, and others effectively to complement teacher-led instruction and meet the new requirements of today's students. These tools offer students immediate feedback and the ability to correct mistakes while remaining engaged in the learning process.

Image from Duolingo website

CSLE+COVA & Learner's Mindset

In the digital age we now live in, independent thinking, self-directed learning, an individualistic approach is what is needed now in education simply to keep up with the quickly evolving technological world we live in.

Innovation Proposal

I want to incorporate digital tools that will not only enhance the student learning experience but also encourage a shift in students' mindset from a focus on grades to valuing effort and progress. I believe this shift is crucial in fostering a growth mindset among our students, where they understand that effort and persistence are the keys to language proficiency.

My ADL Work

Meet My Learning Community

Building relationships with my cohort took effort, but reaching out for discussions on assignments, grades, and feedback helped form strong connections. Samara Marin and Rose Raynor, in particular, have been in most of my courses, making them my go-to for collaboration and support. Their insights were invaluable, helping me shape my vision for assignments. Without the feedback and encouragement from these individuals, my journey would have been far less enjoyable and productive.