In an era where education must not only impart knowledge but also cultivate the wisdom to use it wisely, the International Baccalaureate (IB) stands out by emphasising – learning how to learn. Fundamental to this approach is the development of a suite of key skills designed to empower students to become self-regulated learners who can effectively question, set goals and pursue their dreams.
This approach becomes even more critical in the later years of education as secondary students are getting ready to graduate and enter university life. As a pre-university programme, the IB Diploma programme (IBDP) prepares students for the rigours of college life, academically and beyond. Here we discuss some of the key advantages of the core learning skills that IBDP students develop, and enhance during the last two years of their secondary school at Global Indian International School (GIIS).
At the heart of the IB's educational approach are the thinking skills—critical, creative, and ethical thinking. Even as these skills are essential academic requirements, they are highly relevant for the real world. Critical thinking empowers students to analyse and evaluate arguments, creative thinking fosters innovation, and ethical thinking encourages them to respect varied perspectives.
Research skills in the IBDP curriculum go beyond traditional academic research. Students learn to compare and contrast different viewpoints, validate information sources meticulously, and prioritise data according to their relevance and reliability.
Moreover, IB’s emphasis on academic integrity ensures that students not just master independent research but are ethical in the way it is used. These skills are crucial in today’s digitally-exposed world where information is abundant but not all of it is trustworthy.
Communication is key in the IB philosophy. Students refine not only their ability to articulate ideas through written and oral communication but also their listening skills and their capacity to formulate cohesive arguments. These abilities are vital both in academic settings and in future professional lives.
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Social skills in IBDP involve more than making connections with peers. Students learn how to form positive relationships, an ability that influences their personal and professional futures. Effective listening and conflict resolution are part of this skill set, helping students to navigate challenges in collaborative environments.
Self-management skills such as time and task management, along with managing one's state of mind and motivation, are critical for personal growth. These skills help students become organised and resilient, equipped to handle the demands of both school, university and beyond.
Though categorised separately, these skills overlap significantly. For instance, effective research can enhance critical thinking, and strong social skills can improve communication abilities. This interconnection supports the IB's mission to develop well-rounded, adaptable, and thoughtful learners.
Moreover, these skills are not taught in isolation but are emphasised in developmentally appropriate ways across the different IB programmes. From primary years through to diploma programmes, students engage with these skills at increasing levels of complexity, illustrating the IB's holistic approach to education.
The IB Diploma Programme is a highly regarded international curriculum for secondary school students due to its student-centered approach, and its focus on nurturing students who are intellectually, socially and emotionally prepared for university and beyond. IBDP students take courses from six subject groups, which add to the depth and breadth of knowledge, and key 21st century skills.
At GIIS, over the years our IBDP graduates have done us proud by consistently acing the IBDP exams and university placements. With over 100 IBDP World Toppers and Near-Perfect Scorers till date, our students demonstrate our collective commitment towards academic excellence. Our dedicated teachers, together with our career counselling team support students throughout their journey.
“By the time I was in IBDP, I was set on going to the United Kingdom for my education and I had consulted the career counsellor here at GIIS. I had spoken to my academic IBDP coordinator, and we figured out a plan for the subjects I would take that would be kind of catered and tailored for my education in the UK.
“I had asked my teachers for advice on where to apply, what I should do for my personal statements. And each and every one was so helpful. I think that really made a difference for me,” Sreejana Basu, GIIS IBDP 2022 graduate, Cancer Biomedicine student, University College London.
In conclusion, the decision to opt for the IBDP curriculum as a secondary school student offers a multitude of advantages that extend far beyond academic preparation for university. From comprehensive subject matter coverage to the development of transferable skills, global perspective, and competitive advantage in university admissions, the IBDP equips students with the tools and mindset required to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
If you are keen to know more about IBDP at GIIS, please feel free to contact our admissions team.
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Ms. Deepa Chandrasekaran is a highly-qualified and experienced teacher at GIIS Singapore since 2007. With more than 10 years of experience as the IBDP coordinator at GIIS, Ms. Deepa is well-versed with the IB Diploma curriculum, subject-selection counselling, examinations, teacher orientation and training. She teaches Higher Level and Standard Level Economics in the DP, and is passionate about creating a stimulating learning environment for DP students.