“The involvement of parents in the educational process can make a tremendous difference in the success and happiness of a child.” – Unknown
In the dynamic and constantly evolving world of education, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program stands out for its rigorous personal, professional and academic framework, which is the most important need of an hour. The curriculum is designed to foster holistic and empathetic individuals, who value the idea of being global-minded. The success of the IB program’s success was significantly impacted by the unstinted and often underappreciated factor of parental involvement in achieving the aspirational goal. Needless to mention, this involvement is not just helpful but rather essential for the holistic development of students. The nuances of parental engagement in IB education are heterogeneous in nature. The IB aims to develop young people into a holistic individuals who are caring, knowledgeable, and inquisitive, however, this can be best achieved as a team.
Understand the IB Philosophy & Curriculum – The involvement of the parent body in achieving the desired IB goal is only possible when they understand the IB framework and support their child in achieving the said goal. This will enhance the student’s academic performance and boost self-confidence. Even research has proved that students who have actively involved parents, are more likely to achieve higher academic results. Moreover, healthy parent engagement creates a conducive and supportive environment which are inevitable for emotional and social development of students. This engagement can also transcend the young learners to feel motivated with high self-esteem to sail through the rigorous teaching and learning model offered by IB curriculum.
Effective Parental Involvement– There are many ways parent can effectively show involvement in IB education. Regularly staying in touch with the school and their ward is perhaps the first and most crucial strategy to begin this journey. Communicating with the school, subject teachers and regularly your child’s progress and the curriculum by attending school meetings and communication platform, various school events, and PTMs will surely liaison the support in a viable and effective manner. Parents may also support their wards in their home assignments and projects which are evidence of their learning process. Guiding their child and sometimes mentoring the class by being a guest speaker or involving as a community will also be a great support to the child and peers as well. They may also encourage independent problem-solving skills by providing them real-life problems and asking them to suggest solutions. Additionally, encouraging reading and engagement in educational activities outside the school curriculum fosters a love for learning. Parents can also model lifelong learning by demonstrating their own commitment to learning and self-improvement, setting a positive example for their children to emulate. Last but not the least, teaching the importance of time management and organizational skills which are essential elements of success while navigating their IB learning journey. Thus it may be inferred that to support an IB student at any level of their learning journey, it is essentials to understand the curriculum, foster a conducive and supportive environment, to encourage the students to become a lifelong learners to have balanced lifestyle. The IB curriculum is a student centric program and it prompts inquiry, reflection, and critical thinking,
where parents can support their children to navigate through the challenges of the IB and turn out to be a well-rounded and responsible global citizens.
Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. With the strong parent support they will thrive personally, academically and professionally!!
References
● IBO’s official website
● https://thinkib.net
