- We expect students to reflect on their work and their behavior
- As teachers, we are constantly reflecting upon our practice and making adjustments
Just like the IB Organization expects members of a school community to be reflective, they are constantly reviewing and reflecting upon the IB program and often ask for input from educators in the field. These reflections have resulted in the PYP Enhancements.
Implementation of these enhancements will begin in October of 2018. IB will slowly be rolling out components of the enhancements this year, along with informational webinars, along with opportunities for Q&A.
A few of the enhancements include:
- The early learner will be redefined to include students from 3-6 years. The enhancements require these learners to inquire into a minimum of 4 units each year.
- Collaborative planning teams will have the flexibility to decide the time frame and duration for each unit of inquiry. Examples include year long units, or two units running simultaneously.
- Teachers will have the option to use a newly designed PYP planning template, customized for early learners, subject specialists and grade level learners.
- There will be an increased focus on the learning community, including leadership roles for all members of the school community; immersing students in the interplay between learning technology, learning about technology and learning through technology; and the learning environment.
- Revised Program Standards & Practices will be reduced from 73 to 42 practices due to streamlining and the removal of repetition.
While some things will look different, there are aspects of the PYP that remain pivotal to the philosophy and pedagogy of the program. These include:
- Inquiry
- Transdisciplinary Learning
- Learner Profile
- Program of Inquiry
- Concepts Based Learning
- Exhibition
This post summarizes my current understanding of the PYP enhancements. It is not all inclusive and is sure to develop as I learn more about the enhancements.
