Next Idea Matters accreditation transforms your innovation project into verifiable academic credentials through a rigorous, technology-enabled process that ensures quality, authenticity, and individual accountability.
Traditional project assessments use broad 2-layer rubrics that rely on subjective judgment. Next Idea Matters employs 4-layer granular rubrics that:
Into specific, measurable elements
Through precise criteria at each layer
For consistency and scalability
For student preparation and improvement
Layer 1: Core Competency (e.g., "Research Quality")
↓
Layer 2: Dimension (e.g., "Stakeholder Engagement")
↓
Layer 3: Specific Element (e.g., "Interview Protocol Design")
↓
Layer 4: Observable Evidence (e.g., "Questions demonstrate understanding of user context")
Every team uses a Git repository to:
Our assessment system:
This solves the fundamental problem of team projects: clearly attributing individual contributions and verifying genuine effort.
Annual Program with Two Review Periods
Students must complete projects within the annual cycle but can choose which review period to target based on their progress.
Accreditation is awarded in four achievement tiers based on demonstrated competency mastery
Exceptional demonstration of all competencies with innovative approaches and sophisticated execution.
Solid competency demonstration meeting rigorous standards with clear evidence of learning.
Strong competency achievement with consistent quality and depth across project components.
Competency foundations established with room for further development.
Achievement tiers reflect quality of work, not payment level—all students assessed against the same rigorous standards.
Official accreditation certificate indicating achievement tier and track completed.
Comprehensive breakdown of specific competencies achieved, with proficiency levels in:
Personalized letter highlighting your demonstrated capabilities based on documented evidence from your project work.
Comprehensive digital portfolio page showcasing:
All evaluation criteria are fully disclosed before you begin. Unlike competitions where judging criteria are opaque, NIM provides complete access to rubrics so you can:
This transparency transforms projects from guesswork into structured learning with defined targets.
Explore our tracks and start building verifiable credentials