The MOOC “Nature-Based Climate Shelters in Schools: Empowering Teachers for Sustainable Education”, starting on 1 April 2024, will prepare teachers to implement a nature-based climate shelter intervention in their school using the design-thinking approach.
The COOLSCHOOLS project presents a new online course designed for all teachers interested in creating student-centred learning experiences for their classes, while also addressing schools’ roles in preparing their students for mitigating the effects of climate change.
The course is split into four modules, which present the concepts of Nature-based climate shelter interventions and Urban nature-based solutions (NBS) through the prism of design thinking. Participants will ideate, experiment, and collaborate to develop innovative solutions for their classrooms, as well as create Action Plans and participate in peer review activities.
Register now for the “Nature-Based Climate Shelters in Schools: Empowering Teachers for Sustainable Education” MOOC: https://bit.ly/coolschools-mooc
The course presents the concepts of Nature-based Climate Shelters in schools and urban Nature-based solutions (NBS) through the prism of design thinking.
DESCRIPTION
Nature-based Climate Shelters in schools are green spaces in schoolyards accessible to both students and the broader community that help mitigate the impacts of climate change, while offering a space for outdoor learning. During Nature-based Climate shelter interventions (CSI), educators engage students in the design of a Nature-based climate shelter in their own school to allow them to develop agency in improving their surroundings, 21st century skills and environmental awareness.
OBJECTIVES
Gain knowledge of the concepts of Nature-based Climate Shelters and urban Nature-based solutions by exploring the value and advantages associated with these concepts, while reviewing state of the art knowledge, learning materials and practical case studies.
Learn to design and implement greening activities within your school, through the analysis of best practices and collaboration with other participants.
Discover innovative ways of engaging students in the learning process through a methodical exploration of the design thinking approach and how it aligns with the development of a climate shelter intervention.
Engage in a collaborative learning experience with your peers and co-develop a Climate Shelter in School Action Plan for designing a Nature-based Climate Schelter Intervention or greening activities with your students.
DATES
From 1 April to 8 May 2024 (5.5 weeks)
ESTIMATED WORKLOAD
4 modules = 25h total
TARGET AUDIENCE
The course is developed for practicing teachers with all levels of experience and across all subject areas, as well as for student teachers preparing for entry into the profession. It might also appeal to educational professionals in roles like school administrators or support staff, and/or to community leaders interested in implementing these practices.
Pedagogical approach
The course is organised around the principles of Nature-based solutions and design thinking, as well as of peer learning. The course content is designed to stimulate active participation, reflection, and discussion so that participants can learn from each other’s experiences and ideas. To complete the course, participants are required to submit a final course product and review their peers’ work. To facilitate peer learning, a closed Facebook group has been set up.
Requirements
No previous experience with the course topic is required.
A basic level of digital literacy is required to navigate the course and engage in the course community. Interaction via social media is not a requirement but recommended to improve the course experience. The course is offered in English; participants must be able to understand education-specific oral and written communication and must be confident in expressing themselves and interacting in English writing.
Language
English