Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is one of the three core elements along with CAS and the Extended Essay that is required for the IB Diploma Programme. It is a course that explores questions, comparisons and contrasts, and connections between areas of knowledge. It encourages students to become more aware of their perspectives and the perspectives of others, fostering an “international-mindedness”, or a way of thinking, being and acting characterized by an openness to the world and a recognition of our deep interconnectedness to others.

The TOK course aims to:

• give students opportunities to explore and reflect on the nature of knowledge and the process of knowing

• challenge students to consider the knowledge, beliefs and opinions that they have built up from their years of academic studies and their own life experiences outside of the classroom

• expose students to ambiguity, uncertainty and questions with many plausible answers

• foster open-mindedness and develop intercultural understanding

• encourage students to make connections between academic disciplines by exploring underlying concepts and by identifying differences in the methods of inquiry used in different areas of knowledge

• prompt students to consider the importance of values, responsibilities and ethical concerns relating to producing, acquiring, and communicating knowledge.