I was recently accepted into the Applied Digital Learning master’s degree program at Lamar University, so I’m now on a new journey that I believe will positively shape and advance my career in education. As I work on knocking out my first two courses, things have not necessarily been “easy” (so don’t take the clickbait thumbnail image seriously 😉), and I have encountered new challenges and opportunities that required the right approach to maximize my success.
In this post, I’ll share nine tips on how to succeed in the Applied Digital Learning master’s degree program. They might change as I progress through the program, but they are the main things that’ve helped me do well thus far!
Embrace Your Inner Sponge
To succeed in the ADL program, you must become a sponge. Soak up all the knowledge and information presented in our courses’ readings, videos, discussions, and activities. Be an information gathering machine. You never know which tidbit of information that you absorb will come in handy later.
Share Your Voice
Don’t be shy! Speak up in class, engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your opinions (even though they might be challenged or not received well). Class time is an excellent opportunity to learn from your peers, make connections, expand your worldview, or confirm beliefs you already have.
Don’t Skimp on Time Management ⏰
This program is intense as it is an accelerated degree program, and time management is critical. You must prioritize your coursework, peer interactions, and networking events to maximize your experience. I must confess that I’m a bit of a procrastinator, but I have developed systems to ensure that I remain on top of my schoolwork while balancing my other obligations.
Be Creative in Your Projects/ePortfolio
Creativity and taking ownership of your learning is the heart of what we do in Applied Digital Learning. This is especially so with the ePortfolio course! I strived to infuse originality into every post and assignment because that is who I am. So, I encourage you to let your imagination run wild, try something new, and be bold in your thinking and design. Based on the feedback from the mid-semester check-in, my professor really appreciated my unique approach, so I know I am on the right track with this point!
Leverage the Power of Collaboration
Collaboration is essential in applied digital learning. You’ll learn more and retain more knowledge when you collaborate with classmates. Whether it’s through classroom discussions or working in a collaborative group, seek out opportunities to work with others as you advance through the program.
Take Advantage of Resources
The Applied Digital Learning master’s degree program provides many resources and facilities to help you succeed. Utilize our professors, the library, student services, technical assistance services, FREE Microsoft Office tools (if needed, I saw it on the left side of our school email’s Outlook dashboard), and any other resources provided to you optimally.
Persevere When Things Get Tough
There may be times when you feel overwhelmed (like when writing a literature review), but this is where perseverance comes into play. Be persistent in pushing yourself through the inevitable challenges that come with the degree program.
Keep Your End Goal in Mind
Always remind yourself about the reason why you’re earning your master’s degree. Remembering what you hope to achieve in your career after graduating can serve as a powerful motivator, particularly during those hard moments.
Have Fun!
And lastly, remember to have fun! Cliché I know, but learning can be an enjoyable and intriguing endeavor despite some of its rough patches, so enjoy the process, laugh with your classmates, and be open to the adventure that lies ahead.
While there is no secret formula for success in the ADL master’s degree program, and it’s not all “easy peasy lemon squeezy” these nine tips have helped me effectively navigate the early stages of the Applied Digital Learning master’s degree program. While I know there will be more challenges on the road ahead, let’s embrace the adventure, connect with our peers and professors, and be open to new experiences because our master’s degree is just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey that will hopefully bring us immeasurable blessings!
