Theory of Knowledge
What is Theory of Knowledge (TOK)?
TOK is a course that examines the origins and validity of various forms of knowledge. The content is the various subject areas of a student’s education as well as personal beliefs. The process is critical reflection on what the student claims to know and what is professed as knowledge by others. Students of different cultural backgrounds are encouraged to compare and contrast their diverse attitudes and perceptions. With this focus on inquiry, there may not be right or wrong answers, but there are standards for judgement and defenses of knowledge claims.
Aims and Objectives of TOK
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Develop a critical capacity and understand the importance of evaluating knowledge claims
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Be aware of subjective and ideological biases
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Develop a concern for rigor in formulating knowledge claims, and intellectual honesty
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Make connections between personal experience and Ways of Knowing and Areas of Knowledge through linking questions
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Demonstrate an understanding of the influence that personal views, judgements and beliefs have on own knowledge
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Use oral and written language to communicate ideas clearly and appropriately
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Demonstrate an understanding of knowledge at work in the world
TOK Program Topics
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Knowers and Knowing
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Areas of Knowledge
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Mathematics
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Natural Sciences
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Human Sciences
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History
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The Arts
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Ethics
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Ways of Knowing
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Language
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Reason
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Sense Perception
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Emotion
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Linking Questions
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Assessment - essay and presentation
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------------------------------------------------------------------------- Creativity, Action, Service |
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Creativity Channel - covers the range of art, craft, drama, music, choir, film-making, photography and/or the application of creativity in designing and carrying out service projects.
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Action Channel - includes participation in individual and team sports, physical training or expeditions. It may include the carrying out of creative and service projects.
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Service Channel - includes a range of community or social service activities. Volunteer work helping the less fortunate or involvement in environment projects are ideal service activities.
The Aims of CAS
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To complement academic disciplines and the demands of scholarship
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To encourage development of students’ skills and interest
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To develop a spirit of discovery and self-reliance
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To inspire a sense of awareness, concern, and responsibility toward the community and its disadvantaged
Documenting CAS Activities
A brief self-evaluation is required for each activity. Self-evaluations encourage development of critical thinking and enhance students’ self-awareness. These diaries, journals or CAS Forms should reflect on the growth, skills and values gained as well as how others may have benefited from the activity. A 500-word reflection on the overall program is the culminating requirement. The CAS Supervisor records and evaluates the CAS work of Diploma students.
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Extended Essay |
The Extended Essay is another important and mandatory part of the IB Diploma. It is an in-depth study of a limited topic within a subject. The essay provides an opportunity to engage in independent research which is of interest to the student. Emphasis is placed on the communication of ideas and information in a logical and coherent manner, and on overall presentation of the Essay.
Students should choose a topic in which they have a personal interest and attempt to frame a thesis or research question which they will investigate. They will attempt to refine the question with the aid of an Extended Essay Advisor before embarking on the research, data collection, and writing of the 4000 word paper.
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