In the ever-evolving landscape of education, attending conferences can be a transformative experience. Such was the case for our world-class teachers Katherine, Erika, Gabriela and Davina at the IB Global Conference 2023 held in Toronto, Canada.
The IB Global Conference is an annual event that serves as a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate's commitment to excellence in education. The conference gathers educators, administrators, and thought leaders from around the world to engage in a collaborative exchange of ideas, best practices, and innovations in education.
The conference's theme, Education for an Inclusive Future, was a beacon guiding the breakout sessions our teachers attended. The IB Global Conference promised to equip them with the tools needed to better support inclusive education, aligning with the core principles of the IB framework. In sessions such as "Differentiation for All", "Using Data to Guide Instruction: The Power of Group Norming", and "Delivering an Inclusive Curriculum: Moving from Differentiation to Personalization", they delved into methods that foster equitable learning environments.
Davina commented: “The event was not only edifying but also re-energizing, reigniting my passion for teaching and providing invaluable insights into promoting an inclusive education. As an educator committed to enhancing the learning experience for English as an Additional Language (EAL) students, the conference proved to be an exceptional platform for professional growth and networking”.
Teachers Erika and Davina also gave a session about “The benefits of collaboration between the content teacher and EAL specialist”.
The objective of this session was to:
1. Discuss about how collaboration brings diverse benefits beyond traditional teaching methods.
2. Set comprehensive reading and writing goals, craft targeted interventions, and adapt content for universal access ensure differentiation is woven into every aspect of the learning journey.
3. Weekly co-planning meetings and parent conferences to further solidify this collaboration, nurturing well-rounded student development.
4. Create a classroom where all students effectively engage in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, regardless of their language background.
Beyond the enriching sessions, the IB Global Conference facilitated invaluable networking opportunities. Interacting with IB educators hailing from diverse corners of the world broadened their horizons and laid the foundation for potential collaborations. The global IB community came alive as they exchanged best practices, innovative ideas, and experiences, fostering a culture of mutual growth and learning.
About the IB Diploma
Metropolitan School of Panama
