International Baccalaureate (IB) vs. Project-Based Learning (PBL): Which Approach is Right for Your Child?
When exploring different educational models, families may come across the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, another approach that emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking, and social consciousness. How does this differ from a school like Bennett that utilizes Project-Based Learning (PBL) & Competency-Based Assessment? While both models aim to prepare students for success beyond the classroom, they differ significantly in their structure, philosophy, and assessment methods.
What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program?
The IB program is a globally recognized curriculum designed to develop students into well-rounded, internationally minded thinkers. It follows a structured framework across three programs: the Primary Years Program (PYP) for ages 3-12, Middle Years Program (MYP) for ages 11-16, and Diploma Program (DP) for ages 16-19.
Key aspects of IB include:
- Prescribed Curriculum: IB courses are structured within six subject groups—Language & Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts. Course content is approved by the IB organization, ensuring consistency across schools worldwide.
- Summative Assessments: Summative assessments in IB programs evaluate student learning at the end of a unit, course, or program. They measure the extent to which students have achieved the learning objectives and are designed to provide a comprehensive picture of student understanding. These assessments can take various forms, including written exams, oral presentations, projects, or artistic performances.
- Global Perspective: IB emphasizes international-mindedness, with students worldwide engaging in similar learning experiences. IB learners are prepared to engage with others in an increasingly globalized and rapidly changing world.
- Traditional Classroom Structure: While IB promotes inquiry-based learning, day-to-day instruction remains largely traditional – especially in the Middle Years Program – with lectures, homework, and test preparation.
- CAS Requirement: Diploma program students complete a Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) project, working independently outside of school on a sustained initiative.
- Standardized External Examinations: The Diploma program culminates in high-stakes, externally moderated exams that determine a student’s overall “success” in high school, and, in some cases, university placement.
How is Bennett’s Approach Different?
At Bennett Day School, our students learn through hands-on Project-Based Learning (PBL) and are assessed in a holistic and individualized manner. Our model creates a dynamic and personalized experience for learners and prioritizes student-driven inquiry, mastery of essential skills, and real-world application. Here’s how:
Student-Driven Inquiry vs. Prescribed Curriculum
In PBL, students engage in long-term, interdisciplinary projects that give them the opportunity to apply their knowledge across disciplines in a manner that mimics the skills necessary to thrive beyond school. Instead of following a prescribed set of content, learning is driven by student interests, which helps them connect to the world in authentic, relevant, and meaningful ways. Students work together as a team in their project-work, which fosters essential skills like collaboration, conflict resolution, and communication. This approach mirrors the kind of challenges they will encounter in the professional world.
Competency-Based/Authentic Assessment vs. Standardized Exams
Rather than relying on grading scales or standardized tests, Bennett utilizes Competency-Based Assessment, where students demonstrate mastery of skills over time. Our students receive personalized feedback based on their progress, ensuring deeper understanding and long-term retention. Our teachers use a variety of methods to assess student progress, including classroom projects, presentations, collaborative activities, discussions, project work, teacher observations, and public demonstrations. Unlike traditional assessments that often focus on rote memorization and regurgitation of information, authentic assessments evaluate students’ abilities to apply what they have learned to real-life situations.
Flexible Learning Pathways vs. Fixed Frameworks
IB students follow a highly structured, globally standardized curriculum, whereas PBL encourages flexibility in learning. We believe that students must be invested in what they are learning, and the curriculum must be relevant to their lives – this is the key to student engagement. Projects are shaped by real-world problems and driven by real-world questions. At Bennett, students take ownership of their education, developing skills at their own pace and focusing on areas that spark their curiosity. This model builds autonomy, adaptability, and a lifelong love of learning.
Which Approach is Right for Your Child?
Both IB and PBL offer valuable educational experiences, but they cater to different types of learners. If you’re seeking a structured, globally recognized curriculum, IB may be a strong fit. However, if you value student-driven inquiry, real-world problem-solving, and assessment that focuses on skill mastery rather than test scores, a school like Bennett may provide a more depthful and engaging learning experience.
At Bennett Day School, we believe that education should ignite curiosity, develop essential life skills, and prepare students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
