What are the Approaches to Learning?

Community
14-01-2025

You can think of the International Baccalaureate Approaches to Learning as a toolkit of skills a student creates at school. With these ATL's students are learning how to learn.

By Josie Galemmo, whole school ATL coordinator

Approaches to Learning or ATL skills are divided into 5 groups of skills:

  1. Thinking skills
    This is learning to think critically, solve problems creatively, and ask the big questions such as, “What if we did this differently?” or “Why is this important?”
  2. Research skills
    This is not just Googling or using AI. These skills teach students to dig deeper, find reliable sources and make sense of information. This includes how to properly use all the digital tools that are available.
  3. Communication skills
    Students learn     how to communicate to and with their audience. Whether it is writing an essay, giving a presentation, or listening to others, open-mindedly.
  4. Social skills
    Collaboration     is key. These skills teach students  how to work with others, resolve conflicts, and thrive in diverse groups.
  5. Self-Management skills
    Students  learn how to stay organised, manage their time, and handle stress. Within this category "reflection" is a key skill because students learn to consider learning processes, experiences, and outcomes to deepen their understanding and improve their learning. 

Why are ATL skills important?

These skills are not  just for school; they are for life.  Approaches to Learning skills: 

  • Work everywhere
    Whether students are  writing a     business essay, building a science project, or figuring out how to assemble Ikea furniture, these skills apply.
  • Are future-proof
    Jobs are all about adaptability, creativity, and collaboration. W    hen students become employees in the future, they will have the desired skills.
  • Promote independence
    ATL skills help students become their own     ‘teacher’. They learn to figure things out, take charge of their learning, and grow their confidence.
  • Are not about grades
    A good report card is nice, but the IB is more than that. It is about raising curious, empathetic, and well-rounded individuals who can handle whatever life throws their way.

How can you help your child at home?

Here is how parents can support their child’s ATL journey :

  • Be curious: Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s something interesting you learned today?” or “How did you tackle that tricky problem?”
  • Share your own lessons: Talk about learning something new or solving a problem at work. It shows children reflection is a lifelong skill.
  • Help children get organised: A designated space to do homework with a desk planner or digital calendar (such as the one on Managebac) can work wonders.
  • Celebrate wins: Big or small, every achievement deserves positive reinforcement as it keeps children (and adults!) motivated.
  • Chat about challenges: If children are stuck on something, brainstorm ideas together. But do not jump in to fix it—let your child take the lead.

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