So you’ve heard about the International Baccalaureate program. But what is it? Is the IB program just for high schoolers? Is it just like Advanced Placement (AP) classes? Read on to find out how this program is implemented starting with children as young as 3 years old! Maybe it would be a great fit for your child!
What is International Baccalaureate (IB) Education?
The International Baccalaureate is an educational system that is known for its rigorous approach to learning. The IB was founded in 1968 in Geneva, Switzerland, by a group of forward-thinking educators led by Marie-Thérèse Maurette. Their goal was to create an education system that promoted peace and understanding among young people from diverse national and cultural backgrounds.
The IB offers four different programs:
- the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for children aged 3-12,
- the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11-16
- the Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 16-19
- The Diploma Program includes requirements for intensive service learning hours, a yearlong extended essay, and engagement in college-level courses.
The IB’s founding principles emphasize:
- cultural understanding
- rigorous academic standards
- an ongoing commitment to lifelong learning
- personal development
The Pros and Cons of an IB Education
Pros of IB Education
- Holistic Development: The IB curriculum encourages students to develop not only academically but also emotionally and socially.
- Critical Thinking and Research Skills: The IB places a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning and students are encouraged to think critically and solve complex problems.
- International Mindedness: The IB’s international curriculum and emphasis on cultural understanding prepare students to become global citizens.
- University Recognition: The IB diploma is recognized by universities around the world for its rigorous standards. Many universities offer advanced standing or course credits to IB diploma holders.
- Language Skills: The IB’s requirement for students to learn a second language fosters bilingualism and enhances communication and cross-cultural skills.
Cons of IB Education
- Intensity and Workload: The IB program is known for its rigorous workload, which can be stressful for some students, particularly in the Middle Years or Diplomme Program.
- Accessibility: Not all schools offer IB programs, which may limit access based on geographic location.
- Standardization Challenges: While the IB curriculum aims to be universally applicable, it can be implemented to varying degrees. It’s important to ensure that the school you are researching is accredited by the IB Organization.
- Assessment Pressure: In the upper grades, there is a strong emphasis on exams and assessment measures. This can create pressure and anxiety among students.
What to Look for in IB Programs
When considering an IB program, it is essential to look at the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is authorized by the IB Organization to offer the specific IB program(s) you are interested in.
- Teacher Qualifications: Qualified, experienced teachers are crucial for effective IB instruction. Ask what percent of current teachers are IB trained and the administration’s plan for training any remaining teachers.
- Student Support Services: Because of the high demands of the program, it’s important for schools to have adequate support services, including academic counseling and mental health resources. Additionally, the high school should offer robust guidance services for students who are applying to colleges.
How does IB compare to Project-Based Learning?
The International Baccalaureate places a strong focus on students asking questions, following their curiosity, and having agency over their own learning. Does this remind you of project-based learning? There are some similarities! Project-Based Learning uses “guided questions” which ground and motivate the students to explore the topic in more depth. The IB program calls these “big ideas”, which are essentially the same thing as guided questions. But while a school that does Project-Based Learning might only engage in that for a small portion of the day, the IB program is folded into the way that all instruction, reflection and assessment is done.
What's your experience?
What have you heard about the IB program? We’d love to hear your experience or questions! Comment below!