Throughout this program, I have learned that giving students choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning opportunities (COVA) in a created significant learning environment (CSLE), supports their motivation and confidence. In fact, applying COVA + CSLE in my own work has helped me take ownership of my personal learning journey and has helped me find my voice as a learner, teacher, and leader. In the future, I plan to provide the same opportunities to my students so that they have a flexible learning environment where they can take charge of their own learning, and make it meaningful to them.
I have prepared to implement a flex blended learning environment in my classroom to support my own innovation plan. I have completed an innovation proposal, a literature review, and an implementation outline. I have explored digital tools to enhance students’ learning, such as Schoology and Progress Learning, to support personalized instruction and increase overall performance. My innovation project combines a learning management system, project based activities, and small group instruction to promote an active, student-centered environment. I am currently planning the rollout phases for the beginning of next year. I look forward to seeing how this approach helps increase student engagement and motivation.
From a learner to a leader, my ADL journey has been one of grit, growth, and transformation. I entered the program eager for change and to make a difference, yet unsure of how to turn my passion into action that I could use to help my students on their learning journey. But, through every course that I completed, challenges that I encountered, and collaboration that I attempted, I discovered my true voice, and real purpose in education. I learned to design learning environments that are meaningful, student centered, and grounded in real world scenarios. Along the way, I didn’t just gain a degree, but instead became more of a confident and empowered leader, ready to inspire others with change and motivation. This journey has definitely shaped who I am, and what I will become. I’m so excited to have this mindset to carry with me into every classroom and community that I am involved in.
Overall, this journey has taught me the value of being vulnerable to learning, and how being open to growth allows deeper understanding. True innovation doesn’t always come from a perfect plan, but from being willing to be open to curiosity, adaptability, and reflections. Moving forward, I will learn, teach, and lead with empathy, design with a purpose, and always remember that I am a lifelong learner at heart.
Jackie Bittner M.Ed. 