My Learning Experience In The ADL Program

The ADL program has been an eye-opening learning experience. There are very few times in my life that I have been given the choice in a learning environment. Having the freedom to create a project that is so specific to the needs of my program is priceless. Additionally, knowing that I own every written word is very important to me. I do not feel that I was aware of what authentic learning was and I certainly did not know how to implement it into my program. I feel that by the end of this program I will feel more confident with utilizing a blended learning environment in my classroom and that I will be able to implement the COVA model so that my students feel empowered in their learning. This is just the beginning and I have learned so much in such a short period of time. I am excited about what the future brings in this program, to my students, and to my own career.

My ePortfolio is in its infancy, however, I feel that I have already incorporated elements of the COVA model. My learning manifesto has become something very personal for me and represents the choice to use my voice to express my concerns and plans to improve education for the surgical technology community. I have complete ownership of the ePortfolio, and I can showcase what I have learned and developed during this program and beyond. I feel that having some stake in my ePortfolio will push me to continue contributing to innovative learning. Inviting colleagues in my learning and professional community will help keep me accountable for the upkeep and persistence beyond this program.

One of the most valuable lessons that I have learned thus far is the growth mindset. More so, putting a name to that mindset. Having this knowledge and knowing how to implement the growth mindset in my daily life is valuable. Most importantly is how to change the mindset of my fixed mindset students. Healthcare is constantly evolving and students that approach this career with a fixed mindset will be limited to their own personal growth and success. Having the ability and know-how to change a student’s mindset can be the difference in that student being successful in my program.

This program is my transformation, similar to that of a butterfly, without formal training as an educator I sometimes feel like a caterpillar inching along and completing daily tasks in order to survive. Today, I compare my learning to the stage of being in a cocoon. Cocoons are not a place of rest for the weary caterpillar but a stage of growth and transformation. On the other side, I will be transformed into a new version of myself as an educator. The evolution of my learning and growth as an individual, mom, wife, daughter, educator, and colleague will not only benefit me but all those around me.