Chapter 2: The IB Learner Profile as overarching attributes

This section focuses on the IB Learner Profile, a set of ten attributes valued by the IB. Teachers are expected to nurture these qualities in students throughout their lesson.

Drawn from the aim of the IB mission, the learner profile representing the 10 attributes of internationally minded people is at the centre of the four programme models. The four models are a unified continuum that facilitates learners in striving to develop the 10 clearly defined attributes which are believed to help students become responsible members of their communities. In other words, the IB learner profile could be understood as a gravitational force that directs the focus of students’ development.

The ten attributes of the Learner Profile encompass both self-development and community involvement, guiding students not only to be knowledgeable but also to care for the communities they live in. For instance, attributes like being 'caring' and 'principled' drive learning beyond academics and encourage students to apply their knowledge through real-world experiences, such as community service activities. Analyzing how students embody these attributes through community service or similar activities demonstrates their relevance to real-world applications.

From my understanding, the IB Learner Profile (IBLP) is a unique feature of IB education, making it a value-based program that also caters to the technical and practical skill needs of students. Yes, students learn rigorous knowledge, such as facts, laws of nature, and so on. Nonetheless, they also focus on complex issues that involve conflicting perspectives and worldviews. At this point, the ten attributes become essential, guiding students to navigate through differences, moving beyond visible discrepancies toward shared understanding and mutual respect. Students are then developed into more well-rounded individuals who are ready to embrace and contribute to the world.

On a final note, I think it is worth considering the IBDL as a set of guiding principles for educational programs around the world as teachers design their lessons. In the context of Indonesia, where students come from different cultures and tribes, these ten attributes serve well as overarching principles that foster unity. The following is a comparison table between the IB Learner Profile (IBLP) and the student profile in the Indonesian curriculum called the 'Pancasila' profile, demonstrating the compatibility of the IBLP as overarching principles.

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Pancasila's Student Profile

What is it?

Which IB learner profile do they align with?

1

Having faith, fear of God Almighty and noble character

Indonesia is a religious country, and each student comes from a culture that has its own distinct faith and belief system. Students nurture their unique backgrounds to manifest noble character in their lives.

Principled, Balanced, Reflective

2

Embracing global diversity

While students preserve their distinct culture, they are encouraged to learn from other cultures to create a greater common good. Each culture, along with its strengths, contributes to making a positive impact on the nation.

Caring, Open-Minded

3

Embodying mutual cooperation (gotong royong)

Gotong royong is one of Indonesia’s indigenous traits of living in harmony.  Gotong royong can be understood as living together, striving together, and sharing achievements. Students express ‘gotong royong’ by acquiring Bahasa Indonesia, the lingua franca, and engaging in various active collaborative work.

Communicators

4

Being creative

Indonesia is extremely rich in cultures. Students are encouraged to engage with these cultures and can provide solutions through various creative works.

knowledgeable

5

Being critical thinkers

Students nurture their innate curiosity and develop research skills to provide objective solutions to problems.

Thinkers, Inquirers

6

Independent individuals

Students take ownership of their learning process and develop skills for self-regulated learning.

Risk-takers

As an educator in Indonesia, I can see how IB Education fits well and is compatible with the local education system.

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