Which IB Category (Level) should I choose?
Beginning January 1, 2010, International Baccalaureate (IB) has redesigned their global workshop architecture, and “Levels” have now been replaced by “Categories.” The IB has made this change to standardize workshop content around the world. Similar to the former designations of Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3; the new workshop structures will be titled, Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3.
Click here for further details of IB’s new workshop architecture and each category.
Click here for a PDF booklet on goals and objectives of the new workshop architecture to help you determine which category is appropriate for you.
Which category (1, 2, or 3) is right for me?
Category 1 workshops:
My school is applying for IB authorization. (Category 1 training is required for IB authorization.)
I am new to the IB and am interested in teaching the IB.
I am joining a school with the IB Programme.
Intended audience: HOS, IBC, all designated IB teachers, other key employees as deemed appropriate by applicant school (Optional attendees: CAS coordinator, librarian, counselor, etc.).
The PYP will specifically offer 2 sub-categories within Category 1:
1A: An introduction to the IB standards for administrators new to the PYP. This course is ideal for administrators and coordinators that are new to the PYP or want to conduct a feasibility study on PYP implementation at their schools
1B: An introduction to the PYP curriculum model. This course is ideal for educators interested in or new to the PYP or joining a school with PYP. This course is required for IB authorization.
Category 2 workshops:
I have already completed Level 1/Category 1 training.
I am an experienced IB educator and want to enhance my understanding of IB philosophies, models, and implementation.
Intended audience (from authorized schools): HOS, IBC, subject area teachers, other key employees as deemed appropriate by applicant school
Category 3 workshops:
I am an experienced educator and want further professional development in a specific, special-interest topic.
Previous training in Category 1 and/or 2 in this subject area is not a pre-requisite to attend this training, although it may be beneficial.
Two groups of teachers “fall between the cracks” of Categories 1 & 2:
Those with extensive IB teaching experience who find themselves in applicant schools, and those inexperienced in IB teaching who find themselves in schools with longstanding IB affiliation. We hope that those teachers will refer to the goals and objectives of the workshops to choose judiciously.
