WP 15 - Education and Vocational training

In line with Article 12 of the Paris Agreement, in this work package (WP) we are developing novel climate-related educational support, teaching and training targeting teachers and the younger public. We are developing educational materials (lessons, multimedia animations, videos…) for primary and secondary schools on climate change with a specific focus on Earth system models. We will also organise a “Climathon” allowing students to design and implement concrete adaptation or mitigation actions and two “Climate Education Summer Universities” (CESU) targeting teachers and teacher trainers. Finally, we will also coordinate with WP14 for the dissemination of the outcomes of the project among the general public and policy makers.

First and foremost, education has the power to keep prejudice, ideology and irrational thinking from permeating the world view of younger generations. Education also prepares them to make informed changes with a view to living low-carbon lifestyles and thereby contribute to a low-carbon world. The objectives of this WP are: 1) To foster a better understanding of the concepts underlying climate models, climate projections and Earth system science through the development of educational materials targeting the younger public (primary and secondary schools), teachers and teacher trainers; 2) To provide teachers and teacher trainers with professional development opportunities in the field of climate change education; and 3) To encourage collaboration between educators and scientists.

Intitutions involved: The Office for Climate Education is in charge of the coordination of this work package, the production of educational materials, and the organisation of the various events (climathon, summer universities). Météo-France provides scientific expertise for the production of educational materials and teacher training, as well as operational support for the organisation of the 2 CESU sessions in their facilities. The University of Leeds will provide scientific expertise in the production of educational materials and teacher training.