This study investigates how the main components of the International Baccalaureate (DP) Diploma Program are creativity, activity and service (CAS). International mentality is a general construct related to intercultural understanding, global commitment and multilingualism. The objective of this global study was to examine the way in which schools in the International Baccalaureate (IB) world conceptualize, develop and evaluate the international mentality and understand the challenges related to it. In addition, the researchers set out to identify promising practices to develop an international mindset in all IB programs.
Nine case study centers, which had demonstrated a strong commitment to the international mentality, were selected to examine in depth their practices and ideas in relation to the international mentality. The IB curriculum and, in particular, components such as creativity, activity and service of the Diploma Program were considered to be fundamental to developing the international mentality of students. Teachers also play an important role in fostering the international mindset of students by choosing resources and examples and by serving as role models. Finally, this study has also demonstrated that it is important for schools to embrace the international mentality, adapting it to their own communities and contexts.
Apply practical approaches and strategies, such as classroom debate, teacher role modeling, cooperative learning, inquiry-centered learning, concept-centered learning, and transference, to promote intercultural understanding.
