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What have you gained from your learning experience in this program thus far? So far, my experience in the Applied Digital Learning Master’s program has been incredibly rewarding, providing me with both practical skills and a deeper understanding of how technology can enhance learning in higher education. I have gained hands-on experience with various digital tools and platforms, such as using Wix to building my portfolio, learning how to integrate them effectively into my learning environments. Additionally, the program has helped me refine my ability to critically assess and adapt emerging technologies to meet the needs of diverse learners. Through collaboration with peers and engaging in real-world case studies, I have also developed a stronger understanding of the challenges and opportunities in digital learning. How will you incorporate elements of the COVA model into your ePortfolio? I plan to incorporate elements of the COVA (Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authenticity) model into my ePortfolio to create a personalized and reflective showcase of my learning journey. By offering choices in how I present my work, I will allow for a variety of media that best reflect my strengths and interests. Ownership will be needed through my documentation of the projects and accomplishments I’ve taken responsibility for, demonstrating the progress I’ve made in my learning. I will ensure my voice is heard by writing authentically about my experiences, challenges, and growth, giving insight into my personal and professional development. Finally, I will have authenticity by showcasing work that is meaningful and represents my genuine learning process. What factors would contribute to ePortfolio persistence beyond your program of study? First, maintaining a clear sense of purpose and relevance is a must. By continuously updating my ePortfolio to reflect my evolving career goals, personal achievements, and professional projects, it will remain a valuable tool for self-reflection and career advancement. Also, integrating feedback from mentors, peers, and colleagues will keep the content dynamic and aligned with institutional trends. The practice of regularly revisiting and fine-tuning the ePortfolio will ensure it stays current and showcases my continued growth. Also, establishing the habit of using my ePortfolio for networking and job opportunities will help me keep it alive and utilized as a living document throughout my career. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned thus far in the program? The most valuable lesson I have learned thus far is the importance of persevering through tough times while keeping my eye on the ultimate goal. There have been moments of challenge and frustration, but I’ve realized that resilience is key to navigating these obstacles. By maintaining a growth mindset, I’ve learned to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. This shift in perspective has allowed me to stay motivated, adapt, and find solutions even when faced with difficulties. Understanding that growth is a continuous process has helped me remain focused on progress rather than perfection, ultimately empowering me to push through challenges and stay committed to my academic and professional goals.

A learning network is crucial because it provides a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. It connects individuals with diverse perspectives, resources, and expertise, facilitating collaboration, idea exchange, and mutual learning. By engaging with a learning network, you can gain insights and knowledge that you may not have access to on your own, broadening your understanding of various topics and challenges. Being part of a learning network in higher education can be highly beneficial as it fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuous growth. In a university or academic setting, a learning network connects students, faculty, and professionals, enabling access to a wealth of resources and expertise. I have joined numerous learning networks to enhance and grow my knowledge within my field. Following are a list of communities I am involved in: Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (TACRAO):  Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers is a professional organization that represents individuals involved in higher education administration, particularly in the areas of student registration, admissions, and enrollment management. TACRAO's mission is to support its members by offering professional development opportunities, fostering best practices, and advocating for policies that enhance the student experience. TACRAO is important because it provides a platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among higher education professionals. Through conferences, workshops, and other events, members can stay updated on the latest trends, policies, and technologies in admissions and enrollment. The association also plays a key role in shaping state and national education policies, offering guidance on issues such as student privacy, transfer policies, and academic records management. By facilitating collaboration and supporting professional growth, TACRAO helps ensure that higher education institutions in Texas run more efficiently, providing better services and experiences for students. Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA): The Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on supporting educators in Texas through the integration of technology in the classroom. TCEA provides resources, professional development, and advocacy for teachers, administrators, and technology specialists, with the goal of enhancing education through the effective use of technology. The association hosts conferences, workshops, and webinars to help educators stay up-to-date with the latest technological tools and educational strategies, and it also provides a network for educators to share ideas and best practices. I have recently also joined their Facebook Group, ChatGPT and AI for Educators , where they post information regarding how to navigating utilizing digital tools within education. TCEA is beneficial because it helps bridge the gap between technology and education, ensuring that educators have the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to effectively teach in a digitally-driven world. By promoting the use of technology, TCEA helps improve student learning experiences, increase engagement, and prepare students for the technology-centric demands of the future workforce. Additionally, TCEA advocates for policies that support the integration of technology in schools, working to ensure that educational institutions have access to the tools and infrastructure necessary for success in a modern, digital society. Leadership Educators in Higher Education - Facebook Group: The Leadership Educators in Higher Education Facebook group is a vibrant community of professionals who are dedicated to developing leadership programs and initiatives within higher education. Being part of this group has been incredibly beneficial as it provides a platform to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and gain insights into best practices for leadership development. The group offers valuable resources, including articles, videos, and discussions on the latest trends and challenges in higher education. It also fosters collaboration by allowing members to ask questions, seek advice, and learn from the experiences of others in the field. Being part of this community has helped me expand my knowledge, stay informed about emerging leadership strategies, and grow my professional network, all of which contribute to enhancing my own leadership development and that of the students I work with. Being part of a learning network allows me to both consume and contribute valuable resources, knowledge, and insights that enhance my personal and professional growth. By engaging with others in the network, I am able to consume different perspectives, access relevant articles, research, and best practices, and stay informed about the latest trends in my field. This continuous flow of information helps me broaden my understanding and stay current. At the same time, I contribute by sharing my own experiences and insights, offering support, and providing feedback to fellow members. This exchange creates an environment where everyone can learn from each other, foster collaboration, and enhance problem-solving skills. Currently, I am actively engaged in collaboration within higher education by participating in professional development workshops, attending conferences, and connecting with colleagues across departments to share insights and ideas. This involvement allows me to stay informed about emerging trends, contribute to discussions on key issues, and work collectively towards improving student experiences and academic outcomes. Feedback vs. Feedforward Preparing my receivers for feedforward involves creating an environment where feedback is seen as a tool for growth and improvement, rather than criticism. To make feedforward work effectively in my learning environment, I ensure that I establish trust and open communication, setting the stage for constructive and forward-focused conversations. I encourage a mindset shift from focusing on past mistakes to looking ahead at actionable steps for future success. Additionally, I provide clear, specific guidance on how feedforward can be implemented, offering suggestions that are practical and aligned with the receiver's goals. I also ensure that there is a collaborative aspect, allowing the receiver to actively participate in the process by asking questions and providing input. By making feedforward a positive and integral part of the learning culture, I help create a space where continuous improvement is encouraged and supported.

Being a self-differentiated leader will greatly enhance my ability to communicate effectively with people in the organization and lead the organizational change process. By remaining clear about my own values and beliefs while being open to differing perspectives, I can engage in more authentic, respectful, and empathetic conversations with employees at all levels. This self-awareness allows me to navigate difficult or emotionally charged discussions without becoming defensive or reactive, creating a safe environment for others to voice concerns and ideas. In the context of organizational change, this ability to stay grounded and focused on the bigger picture helps me organize and present change initiatives in a way that connects with people on a deeper level. As a result, I can lead the change process with confidence, rallying support, addressing resistance constructively, and ensuring that the entire team feels heard, valued, and motivated to embrace the transformation. To become a self-differentiated leader, I will need to address several key factors, including self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the ability to maintain clarity and integrity in challenging situations. A self-differentiated leader is one who can stand firm in their values and beliefs while remaining open to differing opinions, managing their emotional responses, and building healthy relationships. Implementing the Crucial Conversations  methodology is important to this process, as it teaches how to engage in high-stakes, emotionally lead discussions in a way that promotes understanding, collaboration, and mutual respect. By using this framework, I will be able to manage tension and conflict more effectively, ensuring that all voices are heard while keeping the focus on the desired outcome. Also, incorporating Crucial Conversations  into my leadership strategy will not only improve my ability to lead difficult conversations but will also help in developing a culture where open, honest, and respectful communication is valued—critical for aligning teams and driving organizational success. References Patterson, K., Grenny, J., & Swizler, A. (2012). Crucial conversations: Tools for talking when stakes are high. (2nd ed.). Callibrain. (2015, August 20). Video review for crucial conversations by Kerry Patterson [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFaXx3pgaxM Camp, J. (n.d.). Friedman's theory of differentiated leadership made simple [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/ixEI4_2Xivw

Publication Rough Draft April 13, 2025 | EDLD 5317 | Spring 2025 "The goal of digital education is to create learning experiences that are engaging, personalized, and accessible to all." Rough Draft Document (Click Here) Team 9 Peer Review Rubric Abstract This article explores the critical role of integrated student portals in higher education and how they can enhance the student experience by streamlining application processes and supporting academic advising. By offering real-time access to application status, personalized course planning, and graduation progress, these digital platforms empower students to take control of their academic journey while enabling institutions to provide more efficient and proactive support. As colleges and universities continue to adapt to changing student needs, modernizing digital infrastructure is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Introduction For today’s students, navigating college isn’t just about attending classes and studying. It’s about juggling application deadlines, choosing the right courses, meeting degree requirements, and figuring out how to graduate on time. While higher education institutions have long supported students through these processes, the traditional methods often fall short. Paper checklists, delayed advisor meetings, and fragmented information systems can create confusion and unnecessary barriers. This article argues that one of the most powerful ways to improve student success is through the integration of smart, user-friendly online portals. When done well, these platforms bring everything a student needs into one place—from tracking application documents to planning courses and predicting graduation timelines. This not only simplifies the student experience but also allows institutions to operate more efficiently and offer more meaningful support. Intended Outlets for Publication This article is being prepared with the submission requirements of the following publications in mind: Educause Review, which focuses on how technology is reshaping higher education. The Journal of Research on Technology in Education (JRTE), which emphasizes research-driven insights on tech-enhanced learning and systems. Education Next, which provides a platform for innovative practices and policy solutions in education. Each of these journals reaches educators, administrators, and technology leaders who can benefit from and act on the strategies discussed here. The Case for Student Portals A student portal isn’t just a convenience, it’s a centralized system that can radically improve the way students interact with their institution. At its core, a well-designed portal serves as a digital dashboard, offering students access to application updates, degree planning tools, academic records, and communication from advisors. When these systems are fully integrated with admissions and advising processes, they support a more seamless, personalized experience. For example, students applying to a college can immediately see which documents have been received and what steps remain. Once admitted, that same portal can suggest course sequences based on their major, previous credits, and institutional requirements. As they progress, students can view their path to graduation in real time, reducing uncertainty and promoting on-time completion. Supporting Advising Through Automation One of the most valuable features of student portals is their ability to support, not replace, academic advising. These platforms can take over the routine tasks: showing students what courses are required, flagging missing prerequisites, or alerting them when they’re off track. This allows advisors to spend less time answering logistical questions and more time having meaningful conversations about career goals, academic interests, and life after graduation. Portals can also help institutions identify students who may be at risk of falling behind, using data to trigger early interventions. By keeping everything in one place, these systems create a clearer, more proactive advising experience. Benefits for Students and Institutions The benefits of student portals extend across the entire academic ecosystem. For students, they offer a sense of control and reduce stress by making information accessible and easy to understand. For advisors, they save time and improve the quality of support. For institutions, they offer cleaner data, stronger retention strategies, and a modernized student experience that meets the expectations of today’s digital-native learners. When students don’t have to wonder whether their transcript arrived, whether they picked the right class, or when they might graduate, they’re more likely to stay engaged and succeed. Lessons Learned from Implementation The successful implementation of a student portal depends on three things: usability, integration, and ongoing support. The system must be intuitive and mobile-friendly; it should connect seamlessly with admissions, registration, advising, and records; and it must be supported by training and feedback from students and staff alike. One common mistake is launching a portal that tries to do too much, too soon, without enough student input. Institutions that approach the process incrementally (building and refining as they go) tend to see the most success. Digital Resources and Real-World Examples The article will include snapshots of successful implementations, including visual walkthroughs of dashboards that track application steps, course progression, and graduation planning. It will also link to tools and research that support portal integration, including resources on user experience design and digital transformation in education. For example, the Purdue OWL site provides foundational tools for structuring digital content accessibly, while recent studies like Hennessy and Forrester’s (2014) work on feedback frameworks offer insights on how students interact with academic tools online. Conclusion As colleges and universities work to retain students and improve outcomes, investing in digital infrastructure is key. Integrated student portals are not only an efficient solution, they’re an essential part of the modern academic experience. By giving students one place to manage their application documents, track their academic progress, and connect with advisors, institutions can remove barriers and build a culture of support. The future of higher education is digital, and with the right tools, it can also be more personal, more supportive, and more student-centered than ever before.

Operation Outreach Empowering Your Academic Journey from Application to Graduation WELCOME Operation Outreach's mission is to enhances the college experience for all students, whether it's their first time in college, returning back, or completely online. We encourage colleges to implement interactive digital outreach tools and online academic resources for a more effective process in a students' academic journey. Explore my creative portfolio to see how we can make a difference. Learn More Hi, I'm N'Kima! Before transitioning into advising, I worked as an Admissions Specialist, where I supported recruiting efforts and assisted prospective students with their applications. Through my experience in both departments and working closely with continuing students, I've seen firsthand how many of them become frustrated by the complexities of starting and navigating through college. "Operation Outreach" is an innovative plan to implement interactive outreach tools designed to support both incoming and continuing students. This initiative aims to simplify the process and provide personalized guidance, helping students feel more confident and connected as they progress through their academic journey. Learn more about N'Kima Blogs Don't miss out—check out our latest blog for fresh insights and updates! Reflection: My Growth within the Graduate Program Learning Networks Self-Differentiated Leadership Get in Touch Text : (903) 408-3945 Email : nbrowning1@lamar.edu LinkedIn : linkedin.com/nkimabrowning First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Action Research Design Outline April 6, 2025 | EDLD 5315 | Spring 2025 "The goal of digital education is to create learning experiences that are engaging, personalized, and accessible to all." Outline Assignment Document 1. What is the focus of your action research? The focus of this study is on applying AI-based student platforms to automate and improve admissions and academic advising functions in higher education. The research seeks to identify how such platforms can streamline tracking of applications, document handling, course guidance, and academic status monitoring. 2. Why is your study being conducted? The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of AI-driven student platforms in improving the efficiency of the admissions process and the quality of academic advising. This research will explore how these platforms impact student engagement, reduce administrative workload, and enhance decision-making for both students and advisors. This includes whether AI-based advising tools result in increased retention of students as a result of more accurate course recommendations, better prediction of challenges in academics, and real-time information on academic standing. 3. What is your basic research question? This study seeks to answer the question: How does the implementation of an AI driven student platform influence the efficiency of admissions, the effectiveness of academic advising, and student retention rates in higher education? 4. What is your research design? Qualitative, quantitative both (mixed-methods) Why? A mixed-methods research design will be used, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The quantitative aspect of the study will focus on collecting statistical data related to admissions processing time, accuracy of advising recommendations, and student satisfaction levels. The qualitative component will involve gathering insights from students and advisors through interviews and focus groups to better understand their experiences with the platform. The mixed-methods approach is ideal because it allows for a comprehensive analysis, combining numerical data with personal perspectives to assess the platform’s overall impact. 5. What is the most appropriate type of data to collect? To evaluate the effectiveness of the AI-driven platform, the study will collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data will include student and advisor satisfaction survey results, admissions processing times before and after the implementation of the platform, the accuracy rates of AI-generated advising recommendations, and student engagement metrics such as frequency of usage and course selection decisions. Qualitative data will also be collected through focus groups and interviews to elicit personal experiences, feedback, and perceived benefits or challenges of the platform. 6. What measurement instruments will you employ? A variety of measurement instruments will be employed to evaluate the effectiveness of the platform. Pre- and post-implementation surveys will be administered to measure student and advisor satisfaction. System-generated analytics will monitor the usage of the platform and measure its effect on admissions processing time and advising accuracy. Case studies will be created to examine the experience of students using the platform for academic planning. Semi-structured interviews with admissions staff and academic advisors will provide further insight into how the platform influences their workflow and student interactions. 7. What is the focus of your literature review? This literature review will consider how artificial intelligence fits into higher education, focusing particularly on student services, including admissions and advising. It will assess best practices of integrating AI with such functions as well as how students and faculty view AI-based platforms. A number of case studies on similar institutions and analyses of the resulting impacts on engagement, accuracy, and retention for these institutions are also part of this review.