Is IB taught in different languages around the world, and does that help its Mission as an organization?
From my research I have found that IBO uses English as its ‘internal working language’ (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2014)[1], that is, the language in which most or all communication and governance occurs. The IBO also recognizes 3 ‘working languages’ as the languages they use to communicate with stakeholders and provide all the services needed to implement the IB programs. There are currently 3 working languages, which are English, French and Spanish (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2014).
The IB MYP and PYP can be taught in any language, but the IBO publishes documentation in English, French and Spanish only for MYP and Chinese for PYP in addition to the 3 working languages. Therefore, if schools need the IBO to validate student grades then sufficient work needs to be produced in these 3 or 4 languages to be considered (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2014)[2].
The IB DP has to be taught in English, French or Spanish, because the curriculum and examinations are only published in these 3 languages (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2014).
Considering that the IBO supports multilingualism and cultural diversity, and its mission includes international-mindedness, having access to the IB curriculum in multiple languages is definitely an advantage. Also the fact that the IB programs offer a second language option assists in molding students into multilingual or at least bilingual citizens of the world.
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[1] International Baccalaureate Organization. (2014). Mission and Strategy. (I. B. Organization, Producer, & International Baccalaureate Organization) Retrieved September 1, 2014 from IB Language Policy: http://www.ibo.org/mission/languagepolicy/
[2] International Baccalaureate Organization. (2014). What we Offer. (I. B. Organization, Producer, & International Baccalaureate Organization) Retrieved September 1, 2014 from IB programmes are taught in English, French and Spanish: http://www.ibo.org/programmes/slideg.cfm