"What's in it for me?"

Connecting the School Librarian with the three International Baccalaureate Programmes

Abstract

The International Baccalaureate organisation (IB), with headquarters based in Geneva, Switzerland continues a world-wide expansion of their three educational programmes. An understanding of, and involvement with the programmes to support the school community is vital for the school librarian in those school which are considering adoption of any of the programmes. The three IB programmes encompassing teaching and learning from 3 years to 19 years are:- the Primary Years programme ( PYP); Middle Years Programme (MYP); and the Diploma Programme ( DP). The IB “Standards and Practices” guide the Authorisation process for IB World Schools and these in turn can effect and direct the way libraries and librarians are used. The IB mission statement, the IB Learner Profile and programme specific documentation guide a ‘continuum of international education’ being promoted by IB World Schools. Some aspects of these areas will be explored in the context of possible changes for the school librarian. ‘What is in it for me?’ will be answered through challenging school librarians to become part of a whole school learning initiative based on International Baccalaureate principles of inquiry and internationalism, and to possibly rethink their role through developing collaborative practices in their educational institution.