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:
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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