The International Baccalaureate (IB) programme has increased in popularity over the years. More training, such as postgraduate degree programmes, workshops and seminars, is being offered to IB teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge in various areas.
'Teachers of IB programmes need a specialised understanding of the philosophy and theory underpinning the IB education,' says Kay Margetts, associate professor and assistant dean (international), who leads IB courses at the University of Melbourne.
IB education consists of three components: the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme (DP).
These aim to provide quality education and develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people to create a better more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
'It is very good for students to cultivate their potential and train themselves in higher-level thinking,' says Li Bin, deputy head of the Chinese International School (CIS) in Hong Kong. 'It is more practical and useful in terms of enhancing students' skills and problem-solving abilities.'
The University of Melbourne offers postgraduate certificate and master of education courses in both the IB Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme.