FAQ
What is The NotWork?
The NotWork is a web-based platform catered to high school students. It offers a mix of content to help users a) explore potential careers and b) learn foundational skills for employment. Some content is created by Stiegler while other content was created by outside parties. The NotWork may host this content where feasible or link out to it otherwise.
Content comes in a variety of formats:
Articles (text-based articles)
Videos
Courses
Interactives (interactive digital experiences such as educational games, digital projects or tools such as Tinkercad, or game-like learning experiences)
Debate Game: argue for or against a position topic, uses AI opponent, jude, and co-pilot.
Quizzy (on Master Challenge, possibly within courses like a "knowledge check")
Content is self-paced except where designated by VESL in which case it is scored for competition.
Content is grouped into topics such as game development, computer science, and chemistry. Some topics are designated as "Mastery". Expect ~27 topics of which ~4 will be Mastery upon launch date. Full topics list here. The initial Mastery Topics will be Game Development, Cybersecurity, Personal Success, and Finance.
Content is always available in an "evergreen" state - users may engage in any content at any time. The only seasonal orientation relates to the time cutoff for state championship qualification.
The key elements of the experience are:
Gamification That Drives Learning
XP system rewards engagement
Ranked leaderboards create healthy competition
Coins provide additional motivation for verified students
Structured Learning Paths
Mastery Topics provide clear progression
Content must be completed to progress
Increasing difficulty ensures skill development
Flexible Exploration
Students can explore any content that interests them
Daily Quests encourage trying new topics
Multiple content formats (videos, articles, interactives) accommodate different learning styles
What is The Playground?
The playground is the home page of The NotWork and was inspired by YouTube where content is the primary focus.