Applied Digital Learning Journey Synthesis
When I first began the Applied Digital Learning program, I honestly had no idea what I was stepping into. Little did I know how transformative this journey would be— both personally and professionally. At the start, I was familiar with only a handful of technology tools, just enough to get my students and me through the day. However, since entering the ADL program, I have learned so much more than I ever expected, and I have already begun integrating many of these new tools and skills into my classroom.
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This growth has strengthened my confidence and elevated the learning experiences I create for my students. I am genuinely excited to continue expanding my knowledge and applying what I’ve learned in ways that truly matter.
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Through self-directed learning and the freedom to explore authentic challenges within my own organization—an approach grounded in COVA and CSLE (Harapnuik, Thibodeaux, & Cummings, 2018)—I have discovered my voice. I identified a problem that matters to me, one where I can make a real and lasting impact. Embracing these principles has allowed me to lead with purpose and cultivate a significant learning environment not only for myself, but most importantly, for my students.
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Through this journey, I’ve learned that meaningful learning grows from feedback, reflection, and ownership (Harapnuik, 2021), and that leadership is often developed through small, intentional acts that positively impact someone’s experience (Dudley, 2013). These insights guided me as I developed my innovation plan, which ultimately led to the creation of an implementation outline to support my proposal for introducing e-portfolios.
Welcome to My ADL Journey
My ADL Journey
​Who Was Involved
Throughout the ADL program, there were many GroupMe groups for each course, made up of classmates who were taking the same classes. In these groups, we discussed assignments, asked for clarification, and offered encouragement whenever someone needed support to get through the program. Beyond the GroupMe chats, there were five people who truly kept me grounded throughout this entire journey. We called our small group the “Extras,” which included Kelsie Adams, Ayla Rightenour, Veronica Mata, Ann Zastryzny, and Angela Speck. Together, we became each other’s backbone, supporting one another every step of the way. With their guidance, motivation, and constant encouragement, I would not have made it through this program.
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Highs and Lows of My Journey & How I've Felt
There were moments throughout this journey when I felt strong, confident, and certain that this is exactly where I was meant to be in my professional path. But there were also times when I felt defeated and questioned whether I was worthy of completing this program.
Working in a Title I district, coaching cheer, and balancing my personal life often left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure if I could keep going. What helped me push through was reminding myself that I am strong and fully capable of succeeding. I also had to learn to give myself grace, and through that grace, I gained perseverance and the confidence I needed to make it through the ADL program. By gaining perseverance and confidence, I found the voice I needed to strengthen my learning and to express myself through the work I have created.
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By juggling my personal life, work life, and school life, I eventually found a balance that allowed me to complete my coursework while still doing the things I love. I’m not going to lie—there were many times when I had to make sacrifices and give up certain events in order to stay on track in grad school. Without the support of my family, friends, and most importantly my students, I would not be where I am today. Their encouragement kept me moving forward. They reminded me of my purpose and pushed me to keep striving even when things felt overwhelming. Looking back, I’m grateful for the challenges because they helped shape me into a stronger and more determined version of myself.
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Coursework Archive: What I Have Created In This Journey ​
In each course I have taken in this program, I was able to create work and make connections that supported my innovation proposal. Below are assignments I have created throughout the program.
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​In the ADL program, I have created and completed multiple assignments that have reshaped my journey as an educator. This experience has not only transformed my practice but also helped me find my voice throughout the entire program. Each course challenged me to think differently and pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. As a result, I now approach teaching with greater confidence, clarity, and purpose.
This assignment helped me identify the strategies and vital behaviors I intend to improve.
For this assignment, I created a podcast that highlights my innovation plan focused on implementing e-portfolios.
This assignment gave me a stronger sense of structure in my lesson planning, especially in aligning lessons with specific TEKS.
The action research plan enabled me to strengthen the evidence that supports the conclusions in my innovation plan.
This assignment helped me reconnect with the reasons I started this journey in the ADL program.
This assignment helped me to reflect on the timeline, research question, and my literature review.
Leslie Marie Gutierrez
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
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