The International Baccalaureate (IB) and its programmes are renowned for their holistic approach to education, fostering the development of well-rounded individuals. At the core of the IB approach lies the IB Learner Profile, which encompasses ten attributes:
- Inquirers
- Knowledgeable
- Thinkers
- Communicators
- Principled
- Open-minded
- Caring
- Risk-takers
- Balanced
- Reflective
It is these character traits that shape IB students into active learners, responsible global citizens, and lifelong achievers.
What is the IB Learner Profile?
The IB Learner Profile is a set of ten attributes that define the essence of an IB education. These traits aim to develop students who are not only academically proficient but also emotionally and socially adept.
The purpose of the IB Learner Profile is to create a cohesive framework that guides students in their personal, academic, and social development. By fostering these attributes, the IB programme ensures that students are prepared to face the challenges of an ever-changing global landscape.
At One World International School (OWIS) Nanyang Campus, an IB World School authorised for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and IB Diploma Programme (DP), we nurture these ten character traits in our students from Early Childhood to Grade 12. To help parents understand the significance of these attributes and skills in their child’s learning journey at OWIS, we have created a series of blogs on these topics:
Inquirers
Curiosity and a love for learning are at the heart of being an inquirer. IB students are encouraged to ask questions, seek answers, and engage deeply with knowledge. This active engagement not only enhances their understanding of various subjects but also instils a lifelong passion for learning.
Strategies for Fostering Inquiry:
- Encourage curiosity by providing opportunities for students to explore topics of interest.
- Use project-based learning to allow students to investigate and research real-world issues.
- Create a classroom environment where questioning is valued and encouraged.
Example Activities:
- Conducting science experiments to explore natural phenomena.
- Research projects on global issues, such as climate change or cultural diversity.
- Field trips to museums or nature reserves to stimulate observational skills and inquisitive thinking.
Knowledgeable
Being knowledgeable means more than just acquiring facts; it involves understanding and applying knowledge across various disciplines. IB students develop a broad and balanced perspective, enabling them to make connections between different areas of study and apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Strategies for Developing Knowledge:
- Integrate interdisciplinary learning to show connections between subjects.
- Encourage reading widely to gain diverse perspectives and insights.
- Use discussions and debates to deepen understanding and critical thinking.
Example Activities:
- Interdisciplinary units of inquiry that combine Science, Mathematics, and Art.
- Book clubs where students discuss and analyse literature from different cultures.
- Debates on current events to apply knowledge in a practical context.
Thinkers
Critical and creative thinking are fundamental to the IB philosophy. Students are taught to analyse information, evaluate different viewpoints, and generate innovative solutions to problems. This emphasis on thinking skills prepares students to tackle complex issues with confidence and creativity.
Strategies for Enhancing Thinking Skills:
- Encourage students to engage in problem-solving activities and puzzles.
- Use open-ended questions to promote deeper thinking and exploration.
- Incorporate design thinking projects to foster creativity and innovation.
Example Activities:
- Participating in Maths Olympiads or Science fairs.
- Group projects that involve creating prototypes or designing solutions to community issues.
- Philosophy discussions that challenge students to consider ethical dilemmas and moral reasoning.
Communicators
Effective communication is crucial in both personal and academic life. IB students learn to express their ideas clearly, listen actively, and collaborate with others. These skills are essential for building relationships, working in teams, and contributing positively to their communities.
Strategies for Enhancing Communication Skills:
- Provide opportunities for public speaking and presentations.
- Encourage collaborative group work and peer feedback.
- Use role-playing and simulations to practise communication in different contexts.
Example Activities:
- Debating clubs where students practise articulating their viewpoints.
- Group projects that require team collaboration and effective communication.
- Storytelling sessions to develop narrative skills and expressive abilities.
Principled
Ethical decision-making, integrity, and responsible behaviour are core to being principled. IB students are taught to act with honesty and fairness, making principled choices that reflect their values and beliefs.
Strategies for Developing Principled Behaviour:
- Incorporate discussions on ethics and moral values into the curriculum.
- Encourage students to reflect on their actions and their impact on others.
- Provide opportunities for community service and social responsibility.
Example Activities:
- Ethics debates on contemporary issues, such as digital privacy or environmental sustainability.
- Reflection journals where students consider their personal values and principles.
- Community service projects that promote social responsibility and civic engagement.
Open-minded
Being open-minded involves appreciating diverse perspectives and fostering empathy. IB students learn to value different viewpoints and develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate an interconnected world.
Strategies for Fostering Open-mindedness:
- Expose students to a variety of cultures and traditions through literature and media.
- Encourage discussions on global issues and diverse perspectives.
- Promote empathy by engaging in community service and intercultural exchanges.
Example Activities:
- Cultural exchange programmes with students from other countries.
- Reading and discussing literature from diverse authors and cultures.
- Participating in Model United Nations conferences to debate global issues.
Caring
Empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards others are at the heart of being caring. IB students are encouraged to develop these character traits to nurture an inclusive and supportive community.
Strategies for Encouraging Caring Behaviour:
- Promote social-emotional learning to develop empathy and interpersonal skills.
- Encourage students to participate in community service and volunteer work.
- Foster a classroom environment where kindness and respect are valued.
Example Activities:
- Organising charity drives and fundraising events for local causes.
- Peer mentoring programmes to support younger students.
- Classroom discussions on empathy and compassion, using real-life scenarios.
Risk-takers
Risk-taking involves embracing challenges and stepping out of comfort zones. IB students learn to approach new situations with confidence and resilience, developing the adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Strategies for Promoting Risk-taking:
- Encourage students to try new activities and take on leadership roles.
- Provide opportunities for experiential learning and outdoor education.
- Relooking at failures as learning opportunities and growth experiences.
Example Activities:
- Adventure camps that challenge students to overcome physical and mental obstacles.
- Entrepreneurship projects where students develop and pitch their business ideas.
- Creative arts performances that encourage self-expression and confidence.
Balanced
Maintaining balance between academic pursuits and other aspects of life is essential for overall well-being. IB students are taught to nurture their physical, emotional, and mental health, ensuring they lead balanced lives.
Strategies for Achieving Balance:
- Encourage time management and organisational skills.
- Promote physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Foster mindfulness and stress management techniques.
Example Activities:
- Sports and fitness programmes that promote physical health.
- Mindfulness and meditation sessions to support emotional well-being.
- Time management workshops to help students balance their responsibilities.
Reflective
Reflectiveness is crucial for personal growth and continuous improvement. IB students learn to reflect on their experiences, set goals, and adapt their approaches to become lifelong learners.
Strategies for Encouraging Reflectiveness:
- Encourage regular self-assessment and goal setting.
- Use reflective journals to document learning experiences and insights.
- Provide feedback that promotes self-improvement and growth.
Example Activities:
- Reflection essays on personal achievements and challenges.
- Portfolio development to showcase learning progress and milestones.
- Goal-setting workshops to help students plan for future success.
Embodying the IB Learner Profile
Our blog series on the IB Learner Profile provides a comprehensive exploration of the ten attributes that shape an IB student. At One World International School Nanyang Campus in Singapore, we are dedicated to nurturing these character traits in every student, ensuring they thrive academically, contribute to their communities, and make a positive impact in the world.
By embodying the Learner Profile, students are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world and achieve lifelong success.
To learn more about OWIS Singapore, please contact us.
