Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

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Schmedz
Posts: 61
Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 2:25 pm

Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by Schmedz »

Hi,

I have never taught these programs (our school briefly investigated them when reassessing our curriculum but decided against).

Now I want to teach in an international school, I have been advised to find out a little more about them. I am a specialist teacher in my current primary school, and wonder just how well the topics incorporate specialist staff. I have been told my subject is rather in demand, so am hoping lack of experience in this particular curriculum won't count against me.

Basically, any feedback on the strengths of the program (and issues) would be really helpful.

Thanks in advance!
shadowjack
Posts: 2138
Joined: Sat Oct 06, 2012 9:49 am

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by shadowjack »

Inquiry based, centered on UOI (Units of Inquiry). Student-centered, concept-based as well.

Might help to know your specialist area so someone can tell you something more that is applicable to you.
Schmedz
Posts: 61
Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 2:25 pm

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by Schmedz »

Thanks...actually sounds very similar to our current curriculum (which also is guided by a skills-based approach - slight dichotomy, I know!) but I know when we didn't choose the PYP it was because some felt the topics were a little too prescriptive. It was so long ago I cannot remember the details of the program and I am sure it has developed since then also.

My subject is music and tbh many primary school schemes seem to focus more on other aspects of learning....would love to know if that is not the case with PYP and MYP.

Educate me IB educators, please!!
migratingbird
Posts: 65
Joined: Sun Feb 12, 2012 2:47 am

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by migratingbird »

Hi Schmedz,

I just started in a PYP school. They are very big on using the right jargon, and wouldn't like being referred to as skills-based. It's concept-based. It took me ages to get the lingo right, I couldn't stop saying "topic" or "theme", instead of UOI...all these are big no-nos. Just saying so that you can mention such things in letters of application :)

We have specialists come to our planning meetings to ensure it's integrated...though some topics..ahem, whoops UOIs, lend themselves more easily to different areas. I find it not prescriptive at all, if anything I've never had more freedom in terms of what I can do in the classroom. The IPC, on the other hand, is prescriptive and skills-based (though I was very happy working with it, in all honesty).

Hope that helps :)
MIS
Posts: 35
Joined: Sun Oct 20, 2013 6:57 pm

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by MIS »

Migratingbird pretty much summed up IB in a nutshell when he used the word "lingo". It's essentially an approach to learning that requires multiple focuses which generally all lead you to a similar result to what you get at other reputable non-IB schools. Lots of schools focus on well-roundedness and developing the whole child, they just don't require as much paperwork and planning to achieve a similar result. There are some benefits to IB, but I'm just not sure they're worth the costs, which are exorbitant. IB makes an absolute killing and I would argue the benefit to students is negligible in the long-run when compared to any other well-implemented curriculum. I would actually like to see the data on IB schools vs those that provide AP, etc.
Schmedz
Posts: 61
Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 2:25 pm

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by Schmedz »

Thank you...really useful information and I will study the lingo in depth! Interesting (and slightly off putting) to hear about the level of paperwork.

I have a feeling I may be more employable in a school that teaches the curriculum of my training and experience, but won't give up investigating IB.

Any more thoughts on the IB, IPC etc.. programs greatly appreciated. Keep 'em coming, please. Especially comments on MYP as this is what my children would be going in to.
shadowjack
Posts: 2138
Joined: Sat Oct 06, 2012 9:49 am

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by shadowjack »

Schmedz, MYP is changing focus (finally!) with the new chapter rolled out this year and similar changes to follow in DP. It is good because it better aligns the MYP with PYP and DP, where before there was a disconnect.

However, it also needs to be done right. Articulated vertical curriculum is essential to ensure critical skills and topics are covered. Horizontal integration of some subjects deepens inquiry and focus, and is emphasized more in the MYP now.

In the end, though, some schools will do it well and others won't, just like now. Just like any system really.

Bottom line is do your homework on your school of choice (or lack of choice haha)
jessiejames
Posts: 76
Joined: Thu Feb 20, 2014 7:00 pm

Re: Tell me about IB, PYP etc...

Post by jessiejames »

I have an upcoming interview with an IB school, but no IB experience. I've been doing a lot of research online but I would like to get a book to help me understand the IB better, too. So far most of the ones I have seen on amazon are about specific UOIs rather than a general overview - does anyone have a recommendation, please?
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