More and more families are asking themselves whether the work their children do at school is truly connected to real life. What skills do they develop? To what extent do these projects prepare students for the challenges of the future? And in particular, when the methodology is that of the International Baccalaureate, what are the benefits of making a presentation of MYP personal projects?
This concern is particularly prevalent at key stages such as secondary education. At this stage, the interests, talents and academic goals of each pupil begin to be defined.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ADDRESSING THESE CONCERNS
In an increasingly complex social and academic context, it is essential that students learn to manage their time, research autonomously, make informed decisions and communicate ideas clearly. However, these skills are not always worked on in depth in more traditional education systems.
Lack of real opportunities to experiment, make mistakes and learn in the process can have negative consequences. For example, pupils who are demotivated, lack confidence in their abilities or are ill-prepared to take on personal and academic responsibilities at later stages such as Baccalaureate or university.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MAKING A PAI PERSONAL PROJECT PRESENTATION?
In response to this need, the Personal Project of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) of the International Baccalaureate, developed in the 4th year of Secondary Education, is one of the most enriching initiatives of the curriculum.
Each student chooses a research topic they are passionate about. They connect it to a real problem or a significant learning objective. They develop it autonomously and present it publicly at the end of the process. All of this is guided by a personal tutor and within a structured framework that encourages reflection and continuous improvement.
1. PERSONALISED LEARNING THAT PROMOTES MOTIVATION
The project is always based on the student’s interests: music, science, sustainability, sports, literature, technology… This personal choice generates a high degree of motivation and commitment. At the same time, it allows each student to face a real challenge adapted to his or her profile.
“I chose to develop an app to help organise the study. Thanks to the project, I learned not only to programme, but also to be consistent”, explains one of the Casvi Villaviciosa students.
So, what are the benefits of making a PAI personal project presentation? We elaborate on them below:
2. DEVELOPMENT OF RESEARCH AND CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
From formulating an enquiry question to finding reliable sources and organising information, the personal project enhances the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise data in a rigorous way.
3. IMPROVING ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
One of the highlights of the project is the final presentation. In it, the students publicly present both the process and the result of their work. This exercise strengthens oral expression, argumentation and confidence in public speaking.
4. FOSTERING CREATIVE THINKING AND INNOVATION
The project encourages students to devise original solutions, explore new formats and build a final product that reflects their creativity and personality. Some examples made at Casvi Villaviciosa include social awareness campaigns, technological prototypes, illustrated stories…
5. CONNECTION WITH REALITY AND DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL COMMITMENT
Through their projects, students better understand the problems of the world around them and look for ways to contribute to the common good. In this way, the IB learner profile is reinforced: informed, caring, reflective and committed to improving the environment.
CASVI VILLAVICIOSA AS AN IDEAL ENVIRONMENT FOR DEVELOPING PERSONAL PROJECTS WITH IMPACT
At Casvi Villaviciosa International School, the Personal Project forms an essential part of the educational philosophy. Each year, 4th grade Secondary students complete this process with the constant accompaniment of their tutors and the support of the whole educational community. The culmination of this work is a public presentation where they share what they have learnt with their families, teachers and classmates.
The experience is highly valued by both students and their families. And it is not only because of the level of maturity and skills acquired. It is also because of the pride that comes from seeing a completely personal work come to fruition.
Since its implementation, nearly a dozen projects have been developed in our centre, reflecting the talent, diversity and capacity for self-improvement of our students.
