Challenges of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme: Insights for school leaders and policy makers

Policy makers in the US and several other countries are recommending that more schools offer an International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. However, little is known about challenges IB programmes present for teaching learning particularly those meeting national curriculum. In this study, we examined of IB’s Middle Years Programme (MYP), least understood researched programmes. Using a qualitative case study design, conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with school leaders (n=7) teachers (n=10) from three Australia previously offered MYP. We used thematic analysis to generate findings Standards Practice framework organize reporting findings. Participants shared perceived related philosophical factors, organizational dilemmas complexities integrating MYP Australia’s Understanding leadership may face when offering can help policy promote necessary conditions successful program implementation.