IB Diploma in Singapore: Why study this programme

Are you starting to plan for your further education?

In order to unlock your full potential and enrol in your university of choice, it is crucial to choose a path that suits you and will help you to grow.

With the different options out there, it could feel daunting to make a decision. After all, you may not know what is the best one for you just yet.

If you’re someone who prefers flexibility in your studies and the opportunity to keep your options open before specialising at the university level, then the International Baccalaureate (IBDP) could be a great choice for you.

This is because the IB offers a broader range of subjects, requiring students to take six subjects across a range of disciplines including the arts, humanities and sciences.

Apart from that, the IB Diploma offers a strong foundation for further education and career opportunities due to its structure and disciplined approach to learning. Hence, more and more students in Singapore are opting to sit for an IB Diploma instead of the A Levels.

What is the IB Diploma?

Founded in 1968, the IB provides high quality and challenging educational programmes at every stage of the child’s academic journey while offering a holistic educational environment.

It is known for its high academic standards and mission to develop global citizens of the 21st century, with a curriculum that places great emphasis on cultivating creativity and imagination.

IB Singapore schools offer there are different levels of programmes:

•   IB Primary Years Programme (for students from Grades 1 – 5)
•   IB Middle Years Programme (for students from Grades 6 – 8)
•   IB Diploma (for students from Grades 11 – 12)

4 key advantages of taking the IB Diploma!

1. A more varied curriculum that rewards independent learning

As an IB student, one of the key things you’ll pick up is the ability to learn. This is important because you’ll be able to retain information and apply knowledge effectively when it matters, as well as persist and push through when obstacles arise.

This is a useful skill to have throughout your life, as you’ll constantly be required to upskill and gain new knowledge to get ahead – be it academically or professionally.

Apart from that, the IB subject areas and courses are designed with a global perspective in mind. Hence, you’ll be required to discuss and share personal views about given issues in a group setting with students from different backgrounds and cultures.

By actively participating in these classes, you’ll not only get to interact with these people and learn to see from a global perspective, but also develop a broad outlook which is important in our increasingly global economy.

2. Students will be assessed on knowledge itself

Theory of knowledge (TOK) plays an important role in the IB Programme, by giving students the opportunity to reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.

With the goal to make students aware of the interpretative nature of knowledge, including personal ideological biases, TOK enables students and teachers to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and on areas of knowledge while considering the role and nature of knowledge in their own culture and the wider world.

Apart from that, it provides coherence for the student by linking academic subject areas and transcending them. Hence, demonstrating the ways in which students can apply their knowledge with greater awareness and credibility.

3. Develop your critical thinking & research skills

 Beyond merely acquiring knowledge by memorising facts and repeating the information you have learned during routine assessment, the IB programme requires you to engage with your study material and understand it by making a connection with it.

Hence, you will sometimes question, analyse and evaluate the material while processing the information. This enables you to build your critical thinking skills that can help you to succeed in life.

Through the innovative assignments and assessments that you’ll work on, you’ll also gain some crucial research skills that ensure you effectively filter through sources to identify the ones that serve you best.

Apart from that, you’ll often work together with your classmates and develop collaborative skills as well.

4. Enable the development of holistic & well-rounded individuals

On top of developing academically, the IB programme will promote overall personal growth – be it socially or emotionally.

From working together on group projects and assignments with your peers to learning how to thrive in social settings, there will be many opportunities for you to develop as an individual.

Coupled with the ability to think critically and persist in gaining knowledge, you’ll set yourself up for success in the future when you enter university and beyond.

Are you ready to take the plunge?

If you’re keen to explore pursuing the IB path, we’re here to help and support you on your journey!

At AIS, we are committed to providing the best environment to learn and ace your IB diploma in Singapore.

Get started by booking your tour today!