4.4 Integrating COSMOS into School Curricula and Policies

4.4 Integrating COSMOS into School Curricula and Policies

4.4.1. For Teachers

Teachers can work within the existing curriculum to identify areas where SSIBL aligns naturally with national or regional standards. Developing lesson plans that integrate SSIBL into standard curriculum objectives, such as environmental science or civic education, ensures that COSMOS is seamlessly embedded into regular coursework. Teachers can advocate for SSIBL inclusion by showing the positive impact of these activities on student engagement and learning outcomes.

4.4.2. For Headteachers

Headteachers can promote sustainability by aligning school policies and curricula with COSMOS principles. Encouraging interdisciplinary projects and flexible lesson planning fosters a school environment conducive to inquiry-based learning. Headteachers can also work with teachers to document and share successful SSIBL projects, creating a portfolio that highlights the approach’s effectiveness and supports ongoing curriculum integration.

4.4.3. For Policymakers

Policymakers can support curriculum integration by creating flexible standards that allow for the inclusion of open schooling and SSIBL activities. Funding pilot programs that test SSIBL integration in different subjects can provide insights into effective strategies for implementation. Policies that acknowledge and reward schools successfully using SSIBL practices encourage the adoption of COSMOS at a systemic level.