Zaman School

Visit to Zaman School

Date: 20.12.2024

Purpose of the Visit:

1. Observe the school atmosphere and daily operations in an IB-authorized school.

2. Facilitate experience sharing between schools.

3. Discuss key aspects of IB implementation, including challenges and best practices
   

   Key Observations

   1. School Atmosphere:

      • A welcoming and collaborative environment was evident throughout the school.

      • The emphasis on inquiry-based learning and student agency was observed in classrooms and interactions.

   2. Teaching Practices:

      • Teachers demonstrated effective use of IB strategies, including concept-based teaching and inquiry-driven lessons.

      • Integration of global contexts and learner profile attributes in classroom activities.

   3. Support Systems for IB Implementation:

      • Dedicated IB coordinators and regular professional development sessions to ensure smooth program delivery.

      • Use of digital tools and resources to streamline planning, assessment, and communication

        Experience Sharing

        • The host school shared insights into their journey of becoming an IB-authorized institution, including:

          • Preparing for IB accreditation and ongoing authorization visits.

          • Challenges in aligning local and IB requirements.

          • Success stories of students and teachers in adapting to IB methodologies.

        • Discussions included:

          • Approaches to interdisciplinary projects and integration of IB global contexts.

          • Strategies to foster a strong culture of academic honesty.

          • Effective use of reflection for both teachers and students.

      • Points of Discussion on IB Implementation

        1. Assessment:

           • Best practices for designing and implementing IB assessments.

           • Methods for converting IB grades to align with local Kazakh grading systems.

        2. Professional Development:

           • Importance of continuous training for teachers to stay updated with IB practices.

           • Suggestions for creating collaborative teacher groups for resource sharing and mutual support.

        3. Engaging Parents and Students:

           • Strategies to communicate the value and principles of the IB program to parents.

           • Encouraging students to embody IB learner profile attributes in their academic and personal lives.

             Key Takeaways

             • IB implementation requires ongoing collaboration, adaptability, and a strong commitment to its philosophy.

             • Sharing experiences between schools enriches understanding and enhances practices.

             • Observing and learning from schools with established IB programs is invaluable for improvement and growth.