How to overcome those challenges?
Navigating organisational barriers corresponds to addressing the challenges of intra-institutional stakeholders. Collaboration, strategic planning and – most of all – the commitment of all those engaged in the design and implementation of the curriculum in schools should focus on crafting context-specific strategies, tailored to the institution:
- To accommodate bioeconomy curricula, schools need to rethink their schedules. This means creating time slots or periods specifically for bioeconomy education. By being flexible with schedules, teachers can incorporate innovative methods and outdoor learning, enriching students’ understanding of bioeconomy.
- Improving infrastructure involves investing in facilities and resources essential for bioeconomy education. This could mean upgrading labs or creating outdoor spaces for hands-on learning. Partnering with local entities can help secure additional resources, ensuring schools have the necessary tools for effective bioeconomy teaching.
- Centralised resource hubs are crucial for bioeconomy education. These hubs provide teachers with a variety of materials, lesson plans, and tools tailored to bioeconomy concepts. Translating resources and offering teacher training ensures educators have the support they need to teach bioeconomy effectively.
- Teachers need the proper training to teach bioeconomy curricula. Training programmes should cover bioeconomy concepts, teaching methods, and best practices. Incentives like continuing education credits or salary supplements can encourage participation, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation among educators.
- Schools must advocate for more funding for bioeconomy education. This includes seeking alternative sources, such as grants. Prioritising bioeconomy education within budgets and seeking external funding opportunities ensures schools have the financial resources they need.
- Collaboration is key to overcoming organisational obstacles. Schools should foster partnerships among stakeholders and facilitate communication. Mentorship programmes, where experienced educators support their colleagues, can build capacity and promote a culture of collaboration within schools.