Changes in the IB Extended Essay Process for the May 2018 Session

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program has continually refined its processes to ensure that students are well-prepared for higher education and research-intensive environments. One significant change for the May 2018 session of the IB Extended Essay was the introduction of new requirements for meetings with supervisors and the viva voce component. This article provides a comprehensive guide to these changes and the overall process.

Introduction to the IB Extended Essay

The IB Extended Essay (EE) is a significant component of the Diploma Programme (DP). It is a 4,000-word research paper that demands extensive research, critical thinking, and high academic standards. The EE is a valuable tool for developing a range of skills that are highly prized by universities and employers alike.

Changes in the Meeting Requirements

For the 2018 session, the IB introduced several changes to ensure that students are thoroughly prepared for the process of writing the EE. One of the most notable changes was the requirement for students to document their interactions with their supervisor through a reflection form. This form should include:

Date and time of each meeting The content and purpose of each meeting Any actions or changes made as a result of the meetings

This reflection form helps to clearly outline the progress of the essay and ensures that both the student and the supervisor are on the same page regarding the expectations and progress. It also provides a valuable record for the student to refer back to if any questions or disputes arise.

The Viva Voce: A Comprehensive Oral Defense

The viva voce, or oral defense, is another significant change that was introduced for the May 2018 session. Unlike previous years, where the viva voce might have been optional or less formal, it became a mandatory part of the EE process. During the viva voce, the student must present their essay and defend it as they would in a PhD candidacy interview. This component is designed to assess the student's ability to articulate their research, defend their methodology, and demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject matter.

The viva voce typically follows these steps:

Introduction: The student introduces the topic and the research question. Discussion: The student discusses the research process, findings, and conclusions in detail. QA Session: The supervisor and panel ask questions to test the student's understanding and ability to defend their work.

Proactively Engaging with Your Supervisor

To successfully navigate these changes, it is crucial to proactively engage with your supervisor. The supervisor is a key figure in the EE process and plays a vital role in guiding students through the research and writing stages. As a student, it is important to:

Regularly schedule and attend meetings with your supervisor Be prepared for each meeting with relevant materials and questions Seek feedback and address any concerns promptly

By being proactive and maintaining regular communication with your supervisor, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the viva voce and that all requirements for the EE are met. This proactive approach will also help you to build a strong relationship with your supervisor, which can be beneficial both during the EE process and for your future academic endeavors.

Conclusion and Tips

The changes introduced for the IB Extended Essay in the May 2018 session are designed to enhance the quality and rigor of the research process. While the viva voce can be daunting, it is a valuable opportunity to showcase your research skills and deepen your understanding of the subject matter. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and proactively engaging with your supervisor, you can successfully navigate these changes and produce a top-quality extended essay.

Tips for Success:

Professionalism: Treat the viva voce as you would a PhD defense, showing respect, clarity, and confidence. Preparation: Thoroughly prepare your essay and be well-versed in all aspects of your research. Promptness: Attend all meetings with your supervisor punctually and be ready to discuss any changes or improvements.

With hard work and dedication, the new requirements for the IB Extended Essay can be successfully navigated, leading to a well-crafted and impressive extended essay.