The Socratic method is all about questions; asking them, and answering them. The method is about provoking critical thinking, ideas and reason. Within Plato’s Dialogues we see Socrates question many people in the pursuit of knowledge although perhaps he goes a little too far sometimes, bordering on obnoxious. This aside, the method itself is a valuable tool and, as we found out in Susan Buckman’s Lecture, it is something which has been adopted within IB schools.

International Baccalaureate Schools take a progressive approach to Education. They were heavily influenced by theorists such as John Dewey, A.S Neil, Jerome Bruner and Piaget; who all believed in interactive learning and the holistic child. IB schools have three programs, catering to children from the age of 3 years up to 19 years of age. It is based on the principles found within Boyer- The Basic School, their belief being that Education is about understanding and conceptualising.

Within lessons children are encouraged to understand the differences among cultures as well as international issues, so that they may become responsible citizens. In order to do this the International Baccalaureate uses a curriculum of inter-related disciplines, as well as the Socratic Method.

The children are encouraged to inquire and communicate which is a marked difference to the traditional school within which the Teacher asks the questions. This method is allowing the children to realise the world by critiquing it, as well as allowing them a deeper understanding of society and as such allowing them to contribute to it effectively.