The IB diploma programme is famous due to its rigorous academics and outstanding rating for its approach to students’ holistic development. The IB Diploma Programme is designed for learners who are dedicated and ready to accept the challenge of intellectual commitment with social and personal balance. Students tackle six subject groups, which are highly demanding, along with the three compulsory components.
These compulsory components are the extended essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Students often find it challenges to keep a balance between social and educational commitments. It’s almost impossible to stay connected with a vibrant social life during IB School years. But there are several students who keep a healthy balance between academic and personal life.
In this article, Our IB experts will explore the strategies followed by such students. These effective strategies are very helpful for maintaining a balance between social life and IB studies.
Understanding the IB workload
It’s very important to understand the work commitments that students fulfil during their IB School years. Here is a list of different subjects and activities that students study throughout the year.
- There are six academic subjects, and students choose the level of these subjects (higher or standard) according to their choice.
- There is a 4,000-word research project that is submitted in the form of an extended essay.
- There is one more essential component that is Theory of Knowledge (TOK). This component is included for the critical reflection on all the subjects.
- CAS Activities (Creativity, Activity, Service).
All these components have separate assessment criteria that require dedication and good strategies with time management. Students cannot succeed without proper management. They must have a better plan for keeping the balance between study and social life.
Why social life matters
Social life is also a necessity. There are several reasons for it.
- Stress and anxiety can increase with a lack of social interaction. It is a human tendency to share a good time with friends and relatives. Laughter and sharing good moments are like stress relievers.
- Sometimes there are emotional moments, and people can come out with these emotional moments only with love and motivation from family and friends. Students also face academic struggles, and they want emotional support.
- Social gatherings are also very helpful to know more about the world, and students can have a better perspective on the challenges.
- IB also promotes social interaction with the help of community service. There are many community projects that students can complete with social interactions.
Time management is everything.
IB does not hamper the social ability or personal life of students. It only requires good time management. You can develop good time management skills with the help of the given tips.
- You should have a good planner where you can note everything about your study schedule. You should mention your class hours, study time, extracurricular life and social events. You should also set a reminder for the deadlines of events and study sessions.
- There are a few important and urgent assignments that you should prioritize first. You should also continue to note the important information about the research work, like the extended essay. Do not use unnecessary social media like Instagram, scrolling full stop, it is only a waste of time.
- Make a timetable where you have breaks for rest. During this rest time, you can chat with your friends or have a quick walk.
Strategic Socializing
It’s very important to be socially active, but you should remember that not all events are so important.
- You can combine your study with your friends and teach each other. It will help you to get feedback about your preparation. You can also have good breaks during group studies, where you can have informal chit-chat.
- You can also involve yourself with social activities that are not long trips. You can plan a lunch break or an evening movie on the weekend.
It’s not right to say yes to all the social events because it will run out your time and energy. It is better to say no politely, as you should focus on your studies. It is not wrong to miss out on a few of your occasions.
Smart study techniques to save time– You can save time easily for your social life by following the smart techniques. Here are a few important and smart suggestions for you.
- You can follow the strategy of active recall and space repetition, with which you can save your time. You can save your time by using flash cards for subjects like biology.
- Mind mapping and summarising it with the help of visual diagrams or mind maps also saves your time. All these are the fastest ways to review and revise.
- Avoid multitasking and focus on one task at a time. Do not scroll on YouTube or Instagram. It will only waste your time.
Balancing CAS with Social Goals:
CAS is also a great opportunity to connect academics and social life.
- You can do your creativity tasks by joining a musical club with friends.
- There are several sports and dance activities that you can join with friends.
- You can complete your service tasks by being a part as a volunteer at an NGO.
Communication with family and friends
You can also talk about the challenges and demands of the IB Diploma program with your family and friends. This will reduce your pressure, and they will help you whenever needed. Sometimes students only need emotional support. Open communication will help you build a strong relationship with family and friends.
Setting boundaries and goals– There is a famous saying that ‘all work and no play makes jack a dull boy’. You should also have a good balance between work and play. You can set a time on the weekend for family and friends. Always remember to put a SMART goal, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, and relevant.
Mental health: recognise burnout early– You should be very careful about your mental health. Burnout can affect your academic and social life. Try to make a balance and discuss your feelings with your close friends and family. Share your progress details with your parents and take their feedback as motivation.
Conclusion:
It’s very important to balance IB studies and social life. IB promotes the holistic development of learners who are excellent learners and socially able citizens. It is possible only with effective time management and self-awareness. Your goal should be to grow as a good human being who is a sensible individual.
