2. Overview of the IB’s Philosophy and Mission

The IB’s philosophy is built on this: We want to make our world a better place, a more peaceful world, by exchanging, understanding and living together across cultures and borders without creating any conflict among people. Moreover, this program helps develop students into well-rounded individuals. It also helps with creating internationally-minded people through skills like critical thinking and inquiry, and the development of ethical principles.

3. The Unique Structure of the IB Curriculum

As compared to traditional educational systems, the International Baccalaureate Diploma curriculum focuses on a holistic approach to learning. In contrast to the rote memorisation and standardised testing of traditional schooling, the IB presents an inquiry-based focus, interspersed with interdisciplinary learning and the development of both academic and personal attributes. This framework helps students become ready for real-life problems by instilling critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

4. The 3 IB Programs

Primary Years Programme (PYP):

• Ages: 3-12
• Focus: Holistic development and inquiry-based learning
• Key Features: The PYP focuses on transdisciplinary themes and encourages students to learn and develop a learner profile, which includes attributes of open-mindedness, empathy and reflection.

Middle Years Programme (MYP):

• Ages: 11-16
• Focus: Interdisciplinary connections with subject-based learning
• Key Features: Included in MYP is the integration of the global contexts and key concepts, promoting student understanding of the world from a variety of angles.

Diploma Programme (DP):

• Ages: 16-19
• Focus: Rigorous academic standards and pre-university preparation
• Key Features: The DP combines core subjects with elective options and the Extended Essay (EE) to add enrichment in the form of research skills and provide an introduction to life in higher education.

5. Core Elements of the IB Curriculum

• Learner Profile: Being open-minded, principled and reflective are attributes that IB students build on to be internationally minded.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes: The IB curriculum is a balance of academic knowledge, practical skills and personal development, such that students will be able to face future challenges.
• Assessment: The IB assessments are both formative and summative, mixed with internal and external evaluation. This provides a whole measure of learning for students.
• Global Citizenship: Understanding and respecting different cultures is one of the strong points of the IB program. This further helps with developing global citizens who make a positive contribution to society. 

6. The IB Continuum of Learning
   
   The 3 programmes are connected through shared principles and the course of learning is seamless. Students of Dwight who progress from the PYP to the CP develop various skills, progressing academically as well as developing personally, in an organised, yet flexible environment.
   

7. Advantages of the IB Curriculum

• Well-rounded Development: IB students experience a balance of academic rigor and personal growth through their learning journey.

   

• University and Career Preparation: The IB curriculum allows students to thrive, regardless of whether they are going to college or stepping into an increasingly globalized world.

   

• Critical Thinking and Problem-solving: IB students are analytical and creative thinkers with the ability to problem-solve. 

8. The IB in South Korea

The IB curriculum is becoming increasingly popular in South Korea because it is of interest to the national focus on academic excellence. Hence, IB schools in South Korea, in particular, are booming in Seoul, where schools like Dwight Seoul offer the IB curriculum, and prepare students for both local and international success.

9. Conclusion

The IB is a world-class education system that sets students up for life with the knowledge, skills and values needed for global living. The strong curriculum of inquiry, intercultural understanding and academic rigor of Korean high schools in Seoul make this an appealing choice for expatriate families in South Korea.