Reflecting on COVA

Looking back at my introduction into Applied Digital Learning program at Lamar University, I had a very old school outlook on learning and had never heard of Choice, Ownership, and Voice Through Authentic Learning Opportunities (COVA). Learning to me has been a process of taking in information for the purpose of a particular task or objective. As military instructor, learning is directed and very task oriented, not meant to be deviated from. Imagine my shock to discover that there is a completely different innovative way to interpret and execute how one learns. The introduction of COVA completely altered what I thought I knew about learning and certainly teaching. “Students thrive when given choice. I thrive when given choice. Choice is empowering and has a direct correlation to ownership. This is the first attribute of the COVA learning model and is essential in establishing the culture and context for learning” (Vallente, 2024). 

Changed Behavior

My first experience of utilizing a COVA model of learning was through the creation of an eportfolio. I initially really struggled with the concept of owing and personalizing one’s learning, desiring the more directed task approach. Since utilizing the COVA model, I no longer view learning has a tool to be use towards something, but more as a journey of knowledge and growth. COVA has helped me to personalize the learning experience and look at how the things learned translates to my personal interest and developmental goals. Another change that COVA has encouraged, is not being a reactive learner, but taking initiative by assessing my learning journey, reflecting on my professional development, and self-correcting, rather than depending on the facilitator’s feedback to initiate any type of meaningful alterations in my learning journey. Overall, my most impactful change has and continues to perspective. Learning is journey of growth that’s constantly evolving and developing, the same way we want to be doing in all aspects of life.

Going Forward

As I move forward in my professional development, I will look to incorporate the COVA model into the learning environment that I facilitate. The Integration and development of interactive content along with workshop applications will be a primary focus point in the effort to further promote the utilization of COVA model learning style.  By emphasizing choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning opportunities, I am committed to nurturing an environment where learners are not just consumers of knowledge but active creators and contributors to their own and others’ educational experiences (Nwaeme, 2024).

References

COVA. (n.d.). Karen Vallente. https://karenvallente.weebly.com/cova.html

Nwaeme, N. N. (2024, April 17). COVA Reflection & Application to My Innovation and Future – Schooled by a Teacher. Schooled by a Teacher. https://schooledbyateacher.com/cova-reflection-application/