Transformative Learning: Embracing Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authentic Experiences in Applied Digital Learning (ADL)

The applied digital learning (ADL) program is based on creating choice, ownership, voice, and authentic experiences (COVA) for graduate students and educators (Harapnuik, 2022). The COVA learning approach significantly impacts my learning as a student and adds to my experience as an educator. Since beginning the ADL program in October 2023, I have made a significant effort to incorporate COVA-aligned learning in my classroom. I have found great pride in my work and genuinely appreciate the COVA learning approach in the ADL program.  

Traditional learning is often "sit and get"; information is given, discussed, and assessed (Harapnuik, 2022). In the ADL program, we are given the opportunity to create, apply, and reflect on our learning, bringing the abstract to the concrete. This makes room for challenge as one is introduced to the learning style. Understanding that learning is in your hands is frightening initially but becomes freeing and transformative. Through these experiences, I and others will gain the knowledge to create significant learning environments, promote a growth mindset in our organizations, and lead change in education (Harapnuik, 2021). 

Mindset: Thinking about mindset is a recurring theme throughout the program, and with COVA, it becomes vital to identify a learner mindset. This learning approach fosters a growth mindset, and students are uplifted through the power of yet and rewarded by effort, grit, and persistence (Harapnuik, 2017). We are encouraged, early in the program, to "fail forward" to continue learning and growing; in a traditional learning environment, you are either right or wrong, and it is encouraged that you be correct (Harapnuik, 2017). In the few short months since starting this program, I have already changed my approach to situations in my classroom thanks to COVA, and I look forward to what I will continue to gain from the ADL program.  

Harapnuik, D. (2022, December 12). Applied digital learning. It's About Learning I Creating Significant Learning Environments. https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=8517

Harapnuik, D. (2017, October 23). COVA+CSLE Mindset vs Traditional. It's About Learning I Creating Significant Learning Environments. https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=7007  

Harapnuik, D. (2021, August 16). What You Get from the ADL. It's About Learning I Creating Significant Learning Environments. https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=8526