THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE
THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE
In Theory of Knowledge ( TOK ), students are introduced to some of the complexities and problems associated with knowledge . We look at what we believe to be true , the reasons we have for holding these beliefs and whether or not the reasons for holding them are good reasons . It is a wide-ranging course , and deals with :
l
l
Subject-related issues Is there such a thing as the scientific method ? What makes a great piece of art ? How reliable are history books ?
Personal and contemporary issues How can I know what is right ? To what extent can we trust the media ? How am I influenced by my culture ? l
Perennial philosophical problems Can we know if God exists ? Are humans predictable ? Do our senses give us the truth ?
While Theory of Knowledge helps to develop rigour and logical analysis it goes well beyond what a traditional course in critical thinking might involve . The aim is to introduce students to a whole range of ideas and allow them to see their own perspectives , beliefs and opinions in the light of the perspectives , beliefs and opinions of others .
The course is not assessment-driven , so the focus is really on the experience of the learner , and teaching students to be critical in their approach to all the subjects . Through TOK activities and discussions , students develop , communicate and test their own ideas in debate , with the aim of understanding their own cultural assumptions .
In addition to the TOK classes , students at Sevenoaks are given TOK-specific lectures and activities , but they soon find that TOK is not simply a classroom-based experience ; it provides the tools to engage critically in an ever-changing world .
8 THE IB AT SEVENOAKS | THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE