Destination Imagination yields great results for participants, who report consistently that DI was one of the most memorable and important parts of their experience. They describe it as fun and exciting – and love the opportunity to compete against teams from around the world.
Independent research reports that students who participated in the activities and tournaments provided by DI outperformed comparable students who had not participated in DI on assessments measuring creative thinking, critical thinking and collaborative problem solving.
DI participants gain:
- Confidence
- Social skills
- Leadership skills
- Communication skills
- Project Management skills
- Creativity
- Innovation
- Resilience
- Perseverance
- Critical thinking skills
These are all important components of what education professionals call the 21st Century Skill Set – that critical set of abilities and knowledge that students need in order to succeed in career, community, and life.
A professor of design at a private college comments:
DI students are able to use materials in new and unusual ways; they are capable of creating unique designs, sculpture, etc. within a very short time; and they are the ones who ask the most questions, and very good ones. They are more capable of sharing their ideas, cooperating with other classmates and helping other students to become more involved.
Many other educators with students who have participated in DI say the same thing. And our students comment that they are getting hired quickly because of what they learned in the program. Their employers see them as innovative thinkers, strong communicators, and future leaders.
