My Contribution to Learning 

Rethinking the Role of Technology in Learning

EDLD 5315- Assessing Digital Learning Instruction gave me a chance to step back and ask a huge question I don’t always have time to think about: Is the technology we use actually improving learning? As a third-grade math teacher, I’ve spent years trying to support students in mastering foundational concepts like place value, whole number operations, and fractions. This course helped me research how adaptive learning platforms—like DreamBox, i-Ready, and IXL—can help students build confidence and skills, and how I can measure their impact in ways that go beyond just test scores.

I gave myself a 91 because I stayed actively engaged throughout the course. I collaborated with my group, and truly tried to apply what we were learning to my own teaching practice. I completed all assigned readings, viewed the videos, and engaged with supporting materials throughout the course. I submitted my assignments on time—often ahead of schedule—to leave space for peer feedback and revisions. That said, there are definitely areas I want to keep improving.

Collaborative Engagement

I continued my collaboration with my core group—Julia, Jana, Shaqueta, and Benjamin. We’ve worked together across multiple ADL courses, and that consistency has helped us build trust, accountability, and give meaningful feedback. We check in almost daily, encouraging each other and making sure everyone is on the right path. I’ve helped group members with editing structure, APA formatting and sharing class notes when needed. In return, they’ve pushed me to deepen my analysis and keep things aligned with course objectives.

Beyond our group, I made sure to post early in Blackboard forums—usually by Wednesday—and followed up with responses that engaged with my classmates’ ideas. I provided evidence-based feedback, asked clarifying questions, and linked discussion posts to relevant research from our readings (such as Khosravi et al., 2020; Pane et al., 2017).

Coursework

Each assignment in this course helped me put my research into action. I was able to build out a real plan for measuring the effectiveness of digital tools I already use in my classroom. My completed assignments include:

Literature Review – Adaptive Learning Platforms in Third-Grade Mathematics

 This review explored the role of AI and gamified tools in boosting student engagement and performance in key math areas. It also identified gaps in current research that helped shape my focus moving forward.

Action Research Outline

 This summary helped me narrow my focus and draft the core components of my research, including the problem, purpose, and guiding questions.

Action Research Plan

I created a full research plan using a mixed-methods design. It includes data collection strategies like pre/post assessments, platform analytics, surveys, and classroom observations to track both achievement and engagement.

Areas for Growth

While I’m proud of the work I’ve done, I know there are areas I can grow:

• Engaging beyond my core group to learn from a wider variety of perspectives

• Using a broader range of scholarly sources in my weekly discussions

• Improve my academic writing, especially with using sources to support my idea

Final Reflection

This course gave me practical tools I can take straight into the classroom. I’m walking away with a clearer understanding of how to assess digital learning and a well-developed plan to track student progress in meaningful ways. EDLD 5315 challenged me to think critically about the tech I use and to measure success based on more than just scores—it’s about engagement, growth, and confidence. I'm proud of my contributions and growth and look forward to applying these lessons with my students and peers.