Approaches to Learning

Overview

The IB's Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills are a comprehensive framework that focuses on developing essential skills students need across all subject groups. Rather than just emphasizing content knowledge, the ATL skills framework helps students "learn how to learn" by developing transferable skills that serve them throughout their IB education and beyond.

The Five ATL Skills Categories

Thinking Skills

• Critical thinking: Analyzing and evaluating issues and ideas

• Creative thinking: Generating novel ideas and considering new perspectives

• Transfer skills: Using skills and knowledge in multiple contexts

• Reflection and metacognition: Considering the process of learning

• Inquiry skills: Formulating questions and planning research

Communication Skills

• Effective expression: Communicating ideas clearly and confidently

• Information literacy: Finding, interpreting, and evaluating information

• Media literacy: Interacting with media to create and analyze content

• Collaboration: Working effectively with others

• Intercultural understanding: Understanding diverse perspectives

Social Skills

• Developing positive interpersonal relationships

• Practicing empathy and considering others' perspectives

• Resolving conflict through constructive dialogue

• Demonstrating social intelligence and emotional awareness

• Taking on different roles in group settings

Self-Management Skills

• Organization: Managing time and tasks effectively

• Affective skills: Managing emotions and motivation

• Resilience: Overcoming challenges and adapting to change

• Mindfulness: Being aware of thoughts and feelings

• Self-motivation: Sustaining enthusiasm and perseverance

Research Skills

• Information literacy: Finding, interpreting, and evaluating sources

• Media literacy: Understanding how media creates meaning

• Academic honesty: Acknowledging sources and avoiding plagiarism

• Creating and evaluating arguments based on evidence

• Synthesizing information from multiple sources