Inquiry-Based Project Cycle: Future Fundamentals Curriculum Framework

The Inquiry-Based Project Cycle is one pathway within the Future Fundamentals curriculum framework, originally developed in 2019 informed by whole school project-based learning models, iterative and reflexive classroom, small-group and individualised educational practice. The framework was designed to support student engagement through curriculum co-design by positioning student purpose, curiosity, concerns and aspirations as starting points for learning.This inquiry pathway is founded on the premise that curiosity is a powerful driver of human learning. The model supports learners to investigate questions, develop understanding and communicate new knowledge through sustained inquiry connected to personally meaningful topics and areas of interest. Designed for both school and broader educational settings, the cycle seeks to strengthen connections between learning, student identity, personal aspirations and future pathways.Future Fundamentals was developed initially as a way to improve student engagement and motivation, while recognising the need for standardised curriculum to better support learners in pursuing career pathways, understanding their interests and strengths, as well as the valuable skills learned in university that could support high school learners into adulthood, regardless of aspirations. It's design is also in response to ongoing debates surrounding inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, problem-based learning, explicit and direct instruction. The framework seeks to provide a coherent and flexible curriculum structure through which these approaches may complement one another rather than be positioned as competing educational philosophies. The model is intended to support subject-specific learning as well as interdisciplinary, cross-curricular and transdisciplinary curriculum design.The framework is informed by traditions of negotiated curriculum, connected learning, culturally responsive pedagogies and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Across both pathways, students are supported to develop communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking through authentic project work connected to their interests, communities and future aspirations.This inquiry cycle is complemented by the Future Fundamentals Problem-Based Project Cycle, which positions student concerns and problem-solving as starting points for learning and solution development.Original framework development: This resource forms part of the Future Fundamentals curriculum framework developed by Grant Sciberras (2019). Version 2 (August 2026): Updated visual design and explanatory elements to improve clarity, readability and communication of the Future Fundamentals curriculum framework. Original framework development remains unchanged. Suggested citation: Sciberras, G. (2026). Inquiry-Based Project Cycle: Future Fundamentals Curriculum Framework. Figshare. DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.33135452.