Student Perceptions of the Influence of the COVA Learning Approach on Authentic Projects and the Learning Environment

This study examined perceptions of the influence of the COVA learning approach on authentic projects and the learning environment by Digital Learning and Leading students in an online graduate program. Related literature points to an array of learner-centered pedagogies and learning environments that offer choice, ownership, voice, and authentic (COVA) learning opportunities. To research the influence that choice, ownership, voice, and authenticity had on authentic projects and the learning environment, 85 graduate students participated in an online survey and their perspectives were extracted out of open-ended narratives. Results from this study suggest that when learners are given choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning opportunities, deep and meaningful learning can result. Additional analysis revealed nine themes that suggest that the COVA learning approach complemented student learning preferences and styles for authentic projects and the learning environment.