How to structure the ToK Course 3/4: Themes & Big Questions Approach
This is the third of four blogposts on models for structuring the ToK Course (earlier posts are linked below). In this model we look at The Themes & Big Questions Approach
This blogpost can be watched as a video here, and below.
Model #1: ToK Curriculum Framework Model linked here.
Model #2: ToK Concepts & Knowledge Questions Model linked here.
How to Structure the Theory of Knowledge (ToK) Course: ToK Big Questions (Part 3)
The “Themes & Big Questions” approach offers an engaging way to unpack the ToK syllabus using philosophical themes and overarching questions. This method, often referred to as the ToK Big Questions model, is a powerful tool for teaching ToK, offering a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to learning.
The Themes Approach
The Themes approach involves taking classic philosophical themes and embedding ToK Knowledge Questions or ToK Structures within those themes. For example, the theme of Justice can be explored within the Areas of Knowledge (AoKs) such as Human Sciences or History, and linked to the core unit of The Knower and Knowledge Communities. Knowledge questions for this theme might include:
Is the truth what the majority of people accept?
How do empathy and imagination help us to understand other perspectives?
If moral claims conflict, does it follow that all views are equally acceptable?
Is it unfair to judge people and actions in the past by the standards of today?
Should terms such as “atrocity” or “hero” be used when writing about history, or should value judgments be avoided?
Do historians have a moral responsibility to try to ensure that history is not misused and distorted by people for their own ends?
The Big Questions Approach
Similarly, the Big Questions approach involves using significant philosophical or liberal arts questions as a means to explore ToK content. For example, we might pose the Big Question: Can we know things beyond our personal immediate experience? This question can then be broken down into structured and scaffolded learning experiences, such as text analysis, debates, and presentations. A guided inquiry might incorporate relevant ToK concepts like Evidence, Certainty, and Truth, with students designing their own solutions based on clear success criteria drawn from Exhibition and Essay guidelines.
Advantages of the Themes & Big Questions Approach
Open-ended Design: This approach promotes an open-ended design of learning, allowing students to bring their personal experiences, interests, and knowledge into the inquiry. It fosters autonomy in choosing learning resources and utilising them effectively, encouraging a blend of group and individual learning and reflection. This autonomy helps build skills crucial for the Exhibition component of the ToK course.
Holistic and Interdisciplinary: The Themes & Big Questions model is intrinsically interdisciplinary, facilitating the integration of various AoKs, core themes, and optional themes. When executed well, this approach enables students to develop a cohesive understanding of ToK, connecting it seamlessly to real-world contexts. It helps students identify and explore ToK issues in practical, meaningful ways.
Challenges of the Themes & Big Questions Approach
While the Themes & Big Questions approach is exceptionally powerful, it also presents significant challenges. When poorly executed, it can be more detrimental than any other model, as it requires the teacher to make clear connections between the real-world contexts and ToK content. Without these connections, students may struggle to grasp ToK concepts, leading to confusion and a lack of ToK knowledge.
This model demands competent and knowledgeable teachers with adequate time to plan and deliver the curriculum. It requires sufficient ToK teaching time, preferably more than the recommended minimum, and ideally small, mixed-ability classes or highly able students capable of making conceptual leaps. This approach is best suited for able Diploma Programme students taught by experienced, well-trained teachers in well-resourced schools.
Conclusion
The Themes & Big Questions approach offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary way to teach ToK, fostering deep engagement and a holistic understanding of knowledge. However, it requires careful planning, skilled teaching, and adequate resources to be effective.
Thank you for reading the third part of our series on structuring the ToK course. Stay tuned for the next instalment, where we’ll explore my preferred model for designing the ToK curriculum. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below and subscribe to the site (free!) for more insights.
Stay Tok-Tastic,
Daniel, Lisbon, July 2024