The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is a comprehensive and challenging pre-university course of studies, leading to examinations, that demands the best from motivated students and teachers. The program is designed for students aged 16 to 19 (typically two years after secondary school) and is recognized by universities worldwide. Aile World School, in partnership with accredited institution, offers a fully online International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and globally recognized pre-university education that meets the standards of the IB while allowing for flexibility and personalized learning in an online environment.Below is a detailed curriculum outline for the IB Diploma Programme.

General Structure
  • The program follows the standard IB Diploma framework, which includes the study of six subject groups and the core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

  • Students select three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL) from the six subject groups.

  • The program is delivered over two years, equivalent to the 11th and 12th grades in high school, or grade 12 and 13 in A level program.

  • A blend of synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded) sessions, along with interactive online resources, provide a dynamic learning experience.

  • Regular virtual meetings with teachers and peers facilitate collaboration and support.
DP Core Components
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): An online course exploring the nature of knowledge across disciplines, encouraging critical thinking and inquiry.

  • Extended Essay (EE): Students receive virtual guidance from supervisors to conduct independent research and write a 4,000-word essay in their chosen subject.

  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Students engage in various online and local projects, documented and reflected upon in an e-portfolio.
Subject Groups

Studies in Language and Literature:

  • English A Literature
  • English A Language and Literature
  • School-supported self-taught
  • Language A Literature SL (for students proficient in languages other than English)

Language Acquisition:

  • Spanish B
  • French B
  • Mandarin ab initio (for beginners)

Individuals and Societies:

  • History
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Business Management

Sciences:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Environmental Systems and Societies (interdisciplinary)

Mathematics:

  • Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
  • Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation

The Arts :

  • Visual Arts
  • Music (collaborative partnerships with local institutions may be required for performance assessment)
  • Theatre (including online performances and theoretical studies)
Assessment and Examination Preparation
  • Internal Assessments (IA): Throughout the two-year program, students complete internal assessments, which are a mix of oral and written work, as well as practical and investigative work, depending on the subject.

  • Mock Exams: Online proctored exams simulate the conditions of the official IB examinations to prepare students.

  • Predicted Grades: Teachers provide predicted grades based on students’ performance throughout the course, which are used for university applications.

  • Exam Registration and Coordination:  The partner institution assists with registering students for exams and coordinating with local IB-approved centers where students can take their final exams.

  • Extended Essay (EE): Virtual workshops and one-on-one sessions with EE supervisors guide the research and writing process.
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK):  Online presentations and essays are submitted as part of the TOK assessment.
Technology and Online Learning Tools
  • Learning Management System (LMS):  An integrated LMS, such as Canvas or Moodle, provides access to course materials, assignments, and communication tools.

  • Virtual Classrooms: Use of video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for live classes and discussions.

  • Interactive Resources: Digital textbooks, simulations, and online databases support student learning and inquiry.

  • Collaboration Tools: Platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 enable real-time collaboration on projects and presentations.

  • Digital Portfolios: E-portfolios are used for CAS and other reflective activities, allowing students to document and showcase their learning journey.
Student Support Services
  • Academic Advising: Virtual advising sessions help students with course selection, college planning, and navigating the IB curriculum.

  • Counseling Services: Access to online counseling to support student well-being and manage the rigors of the IB program.

  • Technical Support: Dedicated tech support team to assist with any online platform or connectivity issues.

  • Special Education Services: Accommodations and support for students with learning differences, ensuring equitable access to the curriculum.
Partnership and Transition Services
  • Transfer Coordination: Seamless transition for students coming from Aile World School to the partner institution’s program.

  • Accreditation Assurance: Both institutions maintain IB accreditation and collaborate to uphold the standards and quality of the diploma program.

  • University Recognition: Guidance on how the IB Diploma is recognized by universities worldwide, including assistance with understanding different countries’ higher education systems and application processes.

  • Articulation Agreements: Establishing agreements with universities that recognize the IB Diploma for advanced standing or course credits, facilitating smoother transitions for students into tertiary education.
Community and Global Engagement

Virtual CAS Projects: Students engage in collaborative projects that can be conducted online, addressing global and local challenges while fulfilling CAS requirements.

  • International Collaboration: Opportunities for students to work with peers from around the world on joint projects, fostering international-mindedness and intercultural understanding.

  • Service Learning: Encouraging students to identify service opportunities in their local communities and share their experiences with the online cohort.
Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities:
  • Online Clubs and Societies: A range of virtual clubs that cater to diverse interests, allowing students to develop leadership skills and pursue passions beyond the academic curriculum.

  • Webinars and Guest Speakers:  Regular online events featuring experts from various fields to enhance students’ learning and expose them to real-world applications of their studies.

  • Research and Innovation Projects:  Support for students interested in conducting independent research or developing innovative projects, potentially culminating in competitions or publications.
Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities
  • Online Clubs and Societies: A range of virtual clubs that cater to diverse interests, allowing students to develop leadership skills and pursue passions beyond the academic curriculum.

  • Webinars and Guest Speakers: Regular online events featuring experts from various fields to enhance students’ learning and expose them to real-world applications of their studies.

  • Research and Innovation Projects:  Support for students interested in conducting independent research or developing innovative projects, potentially culminating in competitions or publications.
Professional Development for Educators
  • IB Training Workshops: Online and in-person workshops for teachers to stay current with IB pedagogy, assessment changes, and subject-specific content.

  • Collaborative Planning: Regularly scheduled virtual meetings for faculty to collaborate on interdisciplinary teaching approaches and share best practices.

  • Peer Observations and Feedback: A system for virtual peer observations that allows teachers to learn from one another and continually refine their online teaching strategies.
Quality Assurance and Program Evaluation
  • Continuous Improvement: Regular review and evaluation of the online IB Diploma Program to ensure it meets the evolving needs of students and maintains high educational standards.

  • Stakeholder Feedback: Gathering feedback from students, parents, and teachers to inform program enhancements and support services.

  • Data-Driven Decision Making:  Utilizing performance data and exam results to assess program effectiveness and guide academic interventions.

By integrating the rigorous standards of the IB Diploma Programme with the flexibility of online learning, Aile World School and its partner institution offer a dynamic and accessible education that prepares students for success in university and beyond. The program emphasizes academic excellence, personal development, and global citizenship, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to contribute positively to an ever-changing world.