Building Momentum: My Journey in Applied Digital Learning this Fall 11.26.24

This past week has been a whirlwind of progress, reflection, and creativity as I continue advancing my Applied Digital Learning (ADL) journey. Between fine-tuning my influencer strategy for the Mightier app implementation at Ward Elementary School and building my ePortfolio, I've had the opportunity to deeply engage with my guiding principles and goals.

One of my most significant accomplishments this week has been refining Parts A & B of my influencer strategy. Using the six sources of influence matrix from Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change by Grenny et al., I’ve outlined a comprehensive plan to drive the adoption of the Mightier app as a tool for emotional regulation. This process has been both challenging and rewarding as I think critically about how to engage students, teachers, and parents alike.

Key to this strategy is the alignment of behaviors with outcomes:

1. Encouraging consistent app usage by students.

2. Supporting teacher facilitation and active engagement.

3. Maintaining ongoing monitoring and feedback loops to adjust individual learning plans.

   
   

This plan not only reflects my belief in the potential of personalized technology for emotional growth but also pushes me to apply behavioral science principles in a real-world setting. I received the Mightier App in the mail last week and have began setting it up for use of my 8 year old son. When he returns from his Thanksgiving break, we are planning on using it 15 minutes a day @ only 3 days a week. I will keep everyone posted!

Another highlight has been expanding my ePortfolio, particularly by adding components like my Learning Manifesto. Crafting this section has been an exercise in self-awareness and intentionality. Also, writing about growth mindset principles inspired by Carol Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success and Scott Jeffrey's interpretations has helped me clarify my vision for learning and how digital tools can empower individuals and organizations.

The learning manifesto has been a deeply personal project. It reflects my belief in the power of ownership, collaboration, and a growth-oriented mindset—guiding values that shape every decision I make in my personal and professional life. My thinking is further influenced by Daniel Pink’s Drive, which highlights the power of autonomy, mastery, and purpose in motivating learning and innovation.

This week hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing the details of my influencer strategy while managing my daily work as a sales manager in the oil and gas industry has stretched my organizational skills. However, this balancing act has reinforced my commitment to the ADL program and reminded me why I started this journey: to make a meaningful impact through innovative solutions and digital learning.

As I approach the finish line for these 2 classes, I feel energized by the progress I’ve made and the work that still lies ahead. In the coming week, I plan to finalize my influencer strategy by installing 4DX.

This week has been a testament to the power of consistent effort, reflection, and adaptability. I’m excited to see how these pieces come together to create a cohesive vision of the educator and innovator I strive to be.

References

Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Ballantine Books.

Grenny, J., Patterson, K., Maxfield, D., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2013). Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change. McGraw-Hill Education.

Pink, D. H. (2009). Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Riverhead Books.

Jeffrey, S. (n.d.). Growth Mindset: Principles and Practices. Scott Jeffrey.