New model is ideal for learning

BELGRAVE’S Mater Christi College is set to reinforce its reputation as being educationally innovative with a significant enhancement of its curriculum commencing at year seven in 2007.
Government and education authorities are recognising the changing landscape in education and have initiated many changes.
In considering these requirements, Mater Christi is confident that the Middle Year Program (MYP) as developed by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) provides a comprehensive model for today’s students and an excellent foundation for senior studies.
“The MYP is an internationally accredited program that is being adopted by many schools in Australia and is a highly credible, well resourced model for curriculum, teaching and learning,” said principal Mary Fitz-Gerald.
“Many elements of the MYP support our ethos at Mater Christi, in particular the focus on the environment, community service and international awareness which all have an important place in our thinking.”
The MYP retains a primary focus on traditional disciplines such as English, maths, science and the arts while drawing links between these areas to create more authentic learning experiences.
Making education real is the basis for the MYP where the process of learning is just as important as the content.
A prime example of this is the Personal Project completed during the fourth and final year of the MYP (year 10).
This project involves the preparation of a significant piece of work over an extended time and is a product of the student’s initiative and creativity.
A high point of the MYP, the Personal Project is a reflection of the students’ experiences and a demonstration of the skills they have learnt throughout the program.
Ms Fitz-Gerald said: “In continually evaluating and improving how we teach our students, the MYP offers an important framework and focus for developing our new curriculum.
“Built around three basic principles of intercultural awareness, communication and holistic learning, these reforms are especially relevant for students dealing with the pressures and demands of the 21st century,” said Ms Fitz-Gerald.
The college plans to phase in the MYP over the next three or four years.
For more information on the International Baccalaureate Organisation log onto the www.ibo.org website or contact Mater Christi College on 9754 6611.