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Innovation Project Update

 

Reflecting on My Innovation Project 

 

Identifying and Reflecting on My Work So Far 

     My innovation project, SMART Goal Getters, is designed to help middle school students set and track daily SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to improve their academic and personal growth. So far, I have completed a comprehensive literature review that explores the importance of intrinsic motivation, growth mindset, and the role of technology in goal-setting. I have also outlined how students at Aldine Middle School can use district-provided tools like Adobe Illustrator and one-to-one laptops to set goals during morning holding spaces. I have explored how goal-setting fosters resilience, time management, and self-confidence, and how it can be integrated into daily routines with support from counselors, teachers, and even AI tools (AI-Waves Channel, 2024). I have created Finks 3 column model, a BHAG and outline.

 

Where I Am in the Project and What’s Left to Complete 

     I am currently in the implementation planning phase of my goal-setting app for middle school students, and the momentum is building! After laying a strong foundation through research and conceptual design, I am now focused on bringing the app to life—starting with writing a grant and securing funding, which I am confident I can achieve thanks to the professional contacts I have cultivated. I am finalizing the digital platform to ensure a user-friendly interface that empowers students to set and track their goals, while also developing a compelling landing page to promote the app and communicate its value. To support educators, I am creating training materials for teachers and counselors who will guide students through the process. The journey will begin with a pilot program at Aldine Middle School, where I will gather feedback and refine the experience to maximize impact.

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I aim to complete these components by next year, so I can begin testing and gathering feedback before the end of next year. 

 

Analyzing and Reflecting on My Learning Process 

This project has been a transformative learning experience. I’ve learned how to: 

  • Apply the COVA model (Choice, Ownership, Voice, Authenticity) to design learner-centered environments (Harapnuik, 2020). 

  • Use disruptive innovation to rethink traditional educational practices (Horn & Staker, 2014). 

  • Recognize the importance of growth mindset and how neuroscience supports it (Briceno, 2012). 

 

What Worked Well 

     What worked well throughout the development of my goal-setting app was the strong theoretical foundation established through an in-depth literature review, which grounded the project in research-based practices. Integrating technology tools like AI and Adobe Illustrator added a layer of engagement and relevance, making the process both innovative and visually compelling. Additionally, using the SMART goals framework provided clarity and structure, helping to align the app’s features with meaningful, measurable outcomes for students.

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What Could Be Improved 

  • I could have involved stakeholders—teachers, students, and parents—earlier in the design process. 

  • I need to streamline the goal-setting process to ensure it’s simple and accessible for all students. 

 

Lessons Learned 

  • Student voice and choice are essential for motivation and engagement. 

  • Authentic learning environments foster deeper connections and better outcomes. 

  • Technology should support, not replace, human interaction in education (Velazquez & Thibodeaux, 2019). 

 

Promotion and Communication Plans 

I plan to: 

  • Build a landing page that highlights key features, testimonials, and a call-to-action. 

  • Engage with online communities like Reddit, Facebook groups, and LinkedIn to share insights and gather feedback. 

  • Host a 30-day goal challenge to encourage adoption and showcase results. 

  • Share updates through school newsletters and parent-teacher meetings. 

 

What I Would Do Differently 

Knowing what I know now, I would: 

  • Start with a student-centered design workshop to gather input. 

  • Use prototypes and pilot testing earlier to refine the app. 

  • Focus more on change management to support teachers and staff. 

 

Applying What I’ve Learned to Future Projects 

    What worked well throughout the development of the goal-setting app was the strong theoretical foundation established through an in-depth literature review, which grounded the project in research-based practices. Integrating technology tools such as artificial intelligence and Adobe Illustrator added a layer of engagement and relevance, making the process both innovative and visually compelling. Additionally, using the SMART goals framework provided clarity and structure, helping to align the app’s features with meaningful and measurable outcomes for students.

 

Conclusion

     Reflecting on the journey of developing SMART Goal Getters, I am proud of the progress made and the insights gained. This innovation project has not only deepened my understanding of learner-centered design and educational technology, but it has also reinforced the importance of student voice, authentic learning, and strategic goal-setting. While there is still work to be done—finalizing the app, launching the pilot, and refining the experience—the foundation is strong, and the vision is clear. With continued collaboration, thoughtful planning, and a commitment to empowering students, I am confident this project will make a meaningful impact in middle school education and beyond.

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References 

 

AI-Waves channel. (2024, May 26). The classroom of the future ai’s transformative impact. 

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     YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeH3BOYyHTM 

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Briceno, E. (2012, November 18). The power of belief--- mindset and success. TEDx Talks 

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     https://youtu.be/pN34FNbOKXc?si=pvCCyB0nbm9iaYzY 

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Freethink. (2016, December 19). What will schools look like in the future? YouTube. 

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     https://youtu.be/JZlgYiXzu58?si=aLnxkExgRCDLHw0K 

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Gordon, C., Bartnik, T., Flewelling, A. (2022, March 18). Benefits and considerations for creating 

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     modern, innovative learning spaces in schools. EdTechMagazine. 

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     https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2022/03/benefits-and-considerations-creating 

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     -modern-innovative-learning-spaces-schools 

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Harapnuik, D. (2020, April 30). Feedforward Vs. Feedback. It’s all about learning. 

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     https://www.harapnuik.org/?p=8273 

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Harapnuik, D. (2014, September 16). People who like this stuff…like this stuff. It's about 

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    learning. https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=2 

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Horn, M. B., Staker, H., & Christensen, C.M. (2015). Blended: Using disruptive innovation to 

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     improve schools. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. 

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Kaplan, S. (2012). Leapfrogging: Harness the power of surprise for business breakthroughs. 

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     San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler 

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Kotter, J. (2011, March 23). Communicating a vision of change. YouTube. 

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     https://youtu.be/bGVe3wRKmH0?si=6LG3vCYUrYNwmbd3 

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Meeker, M. (2014, May 28). Internet trends 2014 code conference. kpcb.com/InternetTrends 

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Naasz, K. (2019, February 8). Innovative spaces and learning innovative spaces and learning: 

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     the truth about classrooms. TEDxCentenaryUniversity. 

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    https://youtu.be/GrO9CpYUnvI?si=myTTUR8Q5plvFkys 

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Nielsen, L. (2016, March 13). Are you an innovative educator? here’s how to find out. The 

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     Innovative Educator. https://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/

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Nixon, S. (2025). SMART: Goal Getters: Revised literature review [Unpublished manuscript, 

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    EDLD 5305: Disruptive Innovation]. Department of Educational Leadership.

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