5320 Contribution to My Learning and the Learning Community

As I reflect on my journey through the Synthesis of Digital Learning and Leadership course, I am filled with gratitude for the growth I've experienced and the relationships I've built. This final course in the Applied Digital Learning program has allowed me to connect all the pieces of my learning, from innovation planning and digital leadership to assessment strategies and personal reflection. I am proud to give myself a self-assessment score of 95—not because everything was perfect, but because I showed up, gave my best, and grew tremendously in the process.

One of the key things that worked well for me was staying committed to revising my work. Each assignment became a living document, evolving through feedback and reflection. I took time to revisit my innovation project update, my COVA reflection, and my final synthesis assignments, ensuring that I incorporated what I learned from my peers and instructors. The process deepened my understanding and allowed me to present more polished, purposeful work. Another thing that helped me succeed was staying consistent with the course materials. I completed all assigned readings, watched the videos, and reviewed the supporting resources provided in the modules. These helped ground my work in theory and gave me a strong foundation to build upon.

That said, this course did not come without its challenges. These last few weeks were particularly stressful due to testing season at school and my son’s Little League baseball schedule. Balancing everything—work, family, and graduate coursework—was overwhelming at times. There were moments when I felt like I was barely holding it all together. However, I learned how to manage my time better and prioritize what mattered most. If there’s one area I know I can still improve, it’s maintaining a more proactive approach to time management, especially when multiple demands collide. There were days I had work, a baseball game and assignments due! Starting assignments earlier and planning out my week more intentionally would have helped reduce some of the stress I experienced.

What truly made a difference during this course was the support and collaboration from my core group—Jelisa Davis-Sophus, Melissa Richards, and Patricia Hamilton. Their insights, encouragement, and willingness to share honest feedback helped me immensely. Our Zoom calls and GroupMe chats were more than just check-ins—they were lifelines. Jelisa’s feedback on my innovation update challenged me to clarify my purpose and outcomes. Melissa offered thoughtful comments on my COVA reflection, helping me better articulate my voice and choice. Patricia provided consistent encouragement and perspective that reminded me of how far we had all come. I’m incredibly grateful for their partnership and friendship.

Throughout the course, I made it a point to contribute to our collaborative group by reviewing drafts, offering comments, and showing up to meetings with thoughtful questions. I also kept up with all course deadlines, even when life got hectic. It wasn’t easy, but being accountable to myself and my group helped keep me on track. The ADL program emphasized the power of learner-centered approaches, and this course truly brought that to life through our collaborative learning community.

Now, as I near the finish line of the ADL program, I feel confident in what I’ve accomplished and inspired to continue growing as a digital leader. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about resilience, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt. This course reminded me that we never lead alone, and for that, I’m deeply thankful.