 and method of intervention. Security concepts that increase the understanding of threats, and benefits of cyber secure practices should be included at every practical learning opportunity. Lines of Effort 2.2.1 Focus federal cyber education investments on developing learning resources aligned with stages of cognitive development. Federal departments and agencies will, where permissible and appropriate, leverage grants and Small Business Innovation Research programs to fund research that evaluates effective learning practices and the development of cyber learning resources aligned with stages of cognitive development. They will also use competitive priorities and selection criteria in education grants to require access to highquality cyber education and training, where legally permissible and appropriate. 2.2.2 Enhance applied cyber content in interdisciplinary education programs. SLTT education agencies are encouraged to promote interdisciplinary programs, from K-12 to postsecondary education, that equip learners with the cyber skills needed to succeed in their chosen career pathways. Colleges and universities are encouraged to incorporate more applied technical skills in certificate and degree programs, including the attainment of industry-recognized certifications. Innovative models, such as cybersecurity clinics and school-based enterprises, give students work experience while providing services to businesses and organizations in the community.64 Federal departments and agencies will explore incentives to encourage colleges and universities to offer industry-recognized certifications, and encourage private providers to make certifications more affordable. 2.2.3 Increase the availability of curricula for cyber education programs. The NICE program office, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), NSA, DoD, NSF, and other federal departments and agencies will collaborate to develop teaching resources that reduce costs of cyber education. Where possible, resources will be made available to SLTT education agencies, such as the Regions Investing in the Next Generation (RING) resources funded by NSA,65 CISA’s Cybersecurity Education and Training Assistance Program,66 and the Advanced Technological Education (ATE) National Resource Centers funded by NSF.67 Employers are encouraged to contribute to the development of cyber curricula for education systems to reduce the cost to educators. NATIONAL CYBER WORKFORCE AND EDUCATION STRATEGY 18