Global Tourism Resilience Day: Embracing Sustainability Through the Lens of the IB Diploma Programme
At Manchester International School, the IB Diploma Programme (DP) is dedicated to cultivating informed, ethical global citizens who are ready to tackle the challenges of our interconnected world. Global Tourism Resilience Day serves as an important opportunity for students and educators alike to delve into the principles of sustainable tourism, which resonates deeply with the IB’s commitment to fostering global responsibility and awareness.
The Role of Tourism and Sustainability in the IB DP Curriculum
In the IB DP curriculum, subjects such as Geography, Business Management, and Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS) play a pivotal role in equipping students with the analytical tools needed to critically assess the multifaceted impacts of tourism. Students explore the economic benefits that tourism can provide to local communities, the environmental challenges it poses, and the cultural implications that arise when different societies interact through travel. This holistic approach nurtures a comprehensive understanding of sustainability in tourism.
How IB DP Students Engage with Global Tourism Resilience
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Projects: Our DP students actively collaborate with local and international sustainable tourism initiatives, engaging in hands-on projects that promote eco-friendly travel practices. For instance, students might design marketing campaigns for eco-lodges or organize community clean-up events at popular tourist destinations to raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Discussions: In lively TOK discussions, students tackle complex ethical dilemmas surrounding mass tourism versus the necessity for cultural preservation. They analyze case studies and current events, fostering critical thought on how tourism can either enrich or exploit local cultures and environments. This reflective dialogue sharpens their ability to weigh different perspectives and make informed decisions.
Extended Essay Research Topics: As part of their Extended Essay, students dive into extensive research on topics such as the impact of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which emphasizes Decent Work and Economic Growth, within the context of tourism economies. They examine how tourism can contribute to sustainable economic development while ensuring that communities benefit equitably from the industry.
Through this inquiry-driven approach embedded in the IB educational framework, our DP learners are not only consumers of knowledge but also innovators and problem-solvers. They are empowered to propose viable solutions for fostering resilient and sustainable tourism practices, preparing them to make meaningful contributions toward a more sustainable and equitable world in the future.
