A rich example of how badge learning can be implemented to support authentic, project-based, student-interest driven learning. This is a program at UC Davis. What pieces of their program could be applicable to a grades 6-12 setting, where badges offer feedback, learning milestones, and open up spaces of possibilities for learning?
Here is an example of interest-driven, failing forward learning -- how do we bring this kind of excitement to learning for our students! And ps, this student is only 7 years old!