Here you will find the answers to some of the most common questions families have about the MYP at the International School of Berne. The Admissions Frequently Asked Questions page shows the most common inquires schoolwide. If you have any other questions or want to discuss any aspect of the process, please contact us or schedule a consultation.
What are the advantages of an MYP education?
- IB programmes are recognized internationally and ease the educational transition of mobile students so that their education is not adversely affected if their families relocate.
- IB World Schools like ISBerne are the only schools authorized to offer the MYP programmes. IB World Schools are subject to a strict accreditation process monitored by the IB, ensuring that schools provide a high-quality education.
- MYP teaching methods and curriculums are research-based and draw from the best educational practices from systems worldwide.
- MYP teachers are required to participate in many professional development opportunities to continually promote their awareness of current educational practices and new thinking.
What is the difference between an MYP school versus a non-IB school?
The essential focus of the MYP programme is to understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world, thus helping our students become critical and reflective thinkers. Holistic learning, intercultural awareness, and communication are integral to the program. Teachers are responsible for structuring varied and authentic assessment tasks that allow students to demonstrate achievement according to the required objectives within each subject group. These may include open-ended, problem-solving activities and investigations, organized debates, hands-on experimentation, analysis, reflection. Assessment strategies, both quantitative and qualitative, provide feedback on the thinking processes as well as the finished piece of work.
How challenging is the MYP?
In MYP, we stress academic rigor. Teachers will differentiate their instruction so that every child can succeed. We never want to leave a child behind.
Have studies been done on the impact of the MYP?
The IB places great value on external validation of its programmes, curriculums, and professional development. For example, a recent study found that Middle Years Programme students in a US public school district were more likely to achieve a proficient or advanced performance level on state mathematics and science assessments than their counterparts in five comparison schools. Additional studies on programme impact, quality assurance, development, and assessment research are available at www.ibo.org/research.
How Can Parents Help Their Children Excel In The MYP?
Engage with your children in regards to learning. Ask them to explain the concepts they are learning about and check in with them regarding their organization and time management. Please encourage them to view their teachers as partners in learning and to seek out feedback and additional guidance. Model enthusiasm and passion for knowledge and learning.
