Academic Recognition
Teaching the only skill that never expires: learning how to learn.
Quick Comparison: Traditional vs. Incite
| Skill Required | Traditional Approach | Incite Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Writing | Essays for one teacher | Articles, scripts, proposals for real audiences |
| Research | Reports from textbooks | Investigation using multiple sources for actual projects |
| Math Application | Abstract word problems | Budget real projects, analyze actual data |
| Scientific Method | Prescribed lab experiments | Test solutions to problems you identify |
| Critical Thinking | Analyze what you’re given | Question everything, seek your own answers |
| Presentation | Speech to classmates | Present to stakeholders, users, or clients |
| Collaboration | Group project with assigned roles | Team initiatives with shared ownership |
What Research Shows
Project-Based Learning is proven effective:
- Students retain content longer and develop deeper understanding (Strobel & van Barneveld, 2009)
- Increases motivation and engagement (Thomas, 2000)
- Develops both academic and life skills simultaneously (Condliffe et al., 2017)
Incite follows Gold Standard PBL (PBLWorks): Our projects include all seven essential elements:
- Challenging Problem or Question - Real issues that matter
- Sustained Inquiry - Deep research and investigation
- Authenticity - Real-world relevance and impact
- Student Voice & Choice - Learners drive their projects
- Reflection - Continuous learning from experience
- Critique & Revision - Iteration based on feedback
- Public Product - Work shared with real audiences
Plus Design Thinking framework:
- Empathy and user research (Stanford d.school methodology)
- Ideation and creative problem-solving
- Prototyping and testing
- Iteration based on real feedback
Enhanced with modern elements:
- AI tool literacy (essential for future workforce)
- Self-directed learning (builds lifelong learners)
- Progressive skill development (from structured to creative)
Yes, You Learn Everything Required
✓ Reading & Comprehension
Traditional: Read assigned texts, answer comprehension questions Incite: Research for projects, synthesize multiple sources, evaluate credibility Example: Creating a documentary requires reading historical accounts, primary sources, and current analyses
✓ Writing & Communication
Traditional: Five-paragraph essays, book reports Incite: Write for real purposes—grants, business plans, user guides, journalism Example: Developing a community solution requires proposal writing, documentation, and stakeholder communication
✓ Mathematics
Traditional: Worksheets, standardized problems Incite: Apply math to real situations—budgets, data analysis, projections Example: Launching a social enterprise requires pricing models, break-even analysis, and growth projections
✓ Science
Traditional: Follow lab procedures, memorize facts Incite: Investigate real problems, test hypotheses, iterate solutions Example: Designing an environmental solution requires research, experimentation, and data collection
✓ Social Studies
Traditional: Memorize dates, places, events Incite: Connect history to current issues, understand systems, engage with community Example: Creating a local history project requires interviewing residents, analyzing change over time, and understanding cause-effect
AND You Gain What Schools Can’t Teach
Skills for the Modern World
- AI Collaboration - Use technology as a tool, not a crutch
- Digital Creation - Build real online presence and digital products
- Project Management - Plan, execute, and deliver independently
- Audience Awareness - Create for real people, not just grades
- Iteration - Improve based on feedback, not just submit and forget
- Entrepreneurial Thinking - See opportunities, create value
Meta-Skills That Matter Most
- Learning how to learn - The only skill that never becomes obsolete
- Questioning and curiosity - Drive your own understanding
- Resilience through failure - Every mistake teaches something valuable
- Self-direction - Manage your own growth
What This Looks Like for College Applications
Traditional Student Application:
“Completed honors English with A grade” “Member of Science Club” “Participated in group projects”
Incite Student Application:
“Developed water quality testing kit used by local environmental group” “Created financial literacy curriculum now taught at community center” “Built accessibility app with 200+ active users” “Published investigative series on local housing that influenced policy discussion”
Which student would you admit?
Project Examples Across Subjects
A Business Venture Covers:
- Math: Financial projections, pricing strategy
- English: Business plan writing, marketing copy
- Economics: Market research, supply and demand
- Technology: Digital tools, online presence
- Art: Brand design, visual communication
A Research Investigation Covers:
- Science: Hypothesis, methodology, data analysis
- English: Research writing, source synthesis
- Math: Statistical analysis, data visualization
- Social Studies: Context and implications
- Technology: Digital research tools, presentation
A Community Solution Covers:
- Civics: Understanding systems and stakeholders
- English: Proposal writing, community interviews
- Math: Budget planning, impact metrics
- Science: Testing and iteration
- Technology: Digital prototyping, documentation
A Creative Production Covers:
- Art: Design, aesthetics, visual storytelling
- English: Scriptwriting, narrative structure
- Technology: Digital production tools
- Music/Drama: Performance, audio design
- Business: Audience building, distribution
For Different Learning Situations
If You’re in Traditional School:
- Use Incite projects for deeper exploration
- Submit projects for independent study credit
- Build portfolio alongside transcripts
- Develop skills that make you stand out
If You’re Homeschooling:
- Projects provide natural interdisciplinary learning
- Document hours and skills for your records
- Real work becomes your curriculum
- Join community for peer interaction
If You’re an Adult Learner:
- Fill gaps in traditional education
- Build portfolio for career change
- Develop modern skills employers want
- Learn at your own pace
The Bottom Line
Traditional education asks: Can you remember what we taught you?
Incite asks: Can you learn what you need, when you need it, and create something valuable?
Both develop core academic skills. Only one prepares you for real life.
Ready to Start?
Stop wondering if this “counts.” It counts more than traditional approaches because the learning sticks and the skills transfer.
→ Explore Projects - See academic skills in action → Getting Started - Begin your journey → For Parents - More reassurance and resources
References: Project-Based Learning research available through Buck Institute for Education (PBLWorks.org). Design Thinking methodology documented at dschool.stanford.edu.