Ask the Experts: What Sets IB Apart From AP Programs?

Q: What sets International Baccalaureate (IB) apart from other programs like AP?

A: “IB is built on the foundation of inspiring engaged teaching and a global mindset,” says Ann Hoelzel, International Baccalaureate coordinator at Beaumont School. “It creates cross-curricular, real-world immersive experiences. For example, our science courses have collaborated on a mission to Mars, with IB biology, IB physics and IB design technology all contributing ideas from their disciplines to solve a real-world challenge. A student helped lead an anti-human trafficking campaign that presented a booth at a music festival. In math, students determine which tools in their toolbox are best to solve a problem, which could be drawing on multiple years of material like we do in the professional world. Overall, the IB experience prepares students to tackle modern issues, such as sustainability, and prepares global thinkers and leaders.”