Innovation Plan Update

Throughout my Applied Digital Learning journey, my innovation project focused on creating an AI-driven platform to improve the admissions and advising processes in higher education. This idea came from noticing that students and staff often struggle with time-consuming, manual tasks that could be simplified with the right digital tools. The project included several key parts: a clear innovation proposal, a thorough literature review that examined existing gaps and future opportunities in education technology, a detailed implementation strategy, a professional learning plan to help with adoption across the campus, and a final call to action to engage stakeholders. I developed each of these parts using the COVA (Choice, Ownership, Voice, Authentic Learning) model, which allowed me to customize the project to fit my professional context and long-term goals.

Currently, my implementation for my innovation project is in its final stages. I have created all major planning documents, research, and support materials, and I have integrated them into my ePortfolio. I am finalizing the professional learning (PL) plan to make sure it meets both departmental needs and the overall vision for digital transformation. I also plan to revise my ePortfolio presentation for a smoother rollout. The remaining tasks include presenting the PL plan during Week 8 and starting the promotional phase in the fall semester. I expect to share this project with both leadership and advising colleagues then.

Reflecting on this process, I see how much I have grown both professionally and personally. One of the most valuable parts of this experience was breaking the project into smaller, manageable stages. I started with research, then proposed a solution, and finally created the tools to support its implementation. What worked especially well was the structured nature of the course along with the creative freedom of the COVA model. I found that being able to choose my direction, own the process, and express my true voice helped me fully invest in the work. I also appreciated the peer collaboration and feedback. This opened my eyes to new perspectives and strategies I had not considered before.

However, there are definitely areas where I could improve. I underestimated the value of early stakeholder engagement and didn’t start gathering feedback from key users, such as students, advisors, and tech staff, until much later in the process. I also found that creating the professional learning plan took more time than expected. I wanted it to be genuinely useful rather than just for show. If I could do this project again, I would conduct interviews or focus groups sooner and create a simple prototype or mockup to help stakeholders better visualize the proposed system. These are lessons I will take into future innovation efforts.

Looking ahead, I plan to promote and share my innovation project through various channels. First, I will present the project to institutional leaders and advising staff in a formal setting, followed by a Q&A session. I also hope to host a casual lunch-and-learn meeting where I can walk my colleagues through the main features of the proposed platform and gather feedback for future updates. In addition, I will include the innovation project as a discussion topic in department meetings to help build interest and support over time. My ePortfolio will continue to act as a public documentation tool that I can share with potential collaborators, conference presenters, or future employers.

Overall, this capstone experience has taught me that meaningful innovation requires patience, planning, and people. I’ve learned that professional learning must be personalized and integrated into the culture of an organization, not offered as a one-time event. I’ve also come to realize the importance of iterative design and ongoing reflection. In future projects, I will approach innovation with a better understanding of the human side of change. I plan to listen closely to users, design solutions based on their needs, and make sure the support systems are in place to help them succeed. This project has not only provided me with a roadmap for integrating AI tools into advising and admissions, but it has also changed the way I view leadership, learning, and lasting change.