More Than Just Books: How Affective Skills Shaped My MYP Journey
As a student in MYP 5 at one of the Premium Schools in Coimbatore- Manchester International School, I’ve navigated a wide array of academic responsibilities, including projects, essays, experiments, and presentations. However, the most significant lessons I have learned extend far beyond the confines of textbooks and traditional assessments. They revolve around the development of my identity—specifically, how I manage my academic workload, how I relate to my peers, and how I confront and overcome challenges. These experiences correlate with what the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework refers to as “affective skills,” and reflecting on my journey thus far, I realize that these skills have had a more profound impact on my personal growth than any specific subject matter.
The cultivation of affective skills encompasses a range of competencies, including time management, emotional regulation, resilience, and perseverance. Each of these skills plays an integral role in the IB's pedagogical approach. I vividly recall my first exhibition in MYP 1, where the prospect of speaking in front of an audience filled me with dread. However, through continuous engagement with reflection journals, constructive feedback from educators, and collaborative projects with classmates, I began to develop a deeper understanding of my own capacities and limitations. Over time, my initial fear transformed into enjoyment, and I found myself embracing opportunities to present to my peers.
More recently, in the context of our Personal Project, the importance of affective skills became even more pronounced. This endeavor was not merely about selecting a topic and conducting research; it was a comprehensive exercise in self-management, motivation, and organization over an extended period. I learned that resilience in the face of setbacks and an intrinsic drive to persevere—even when tasks became challenging—were crucial to my success. This experience underscored the notion that academic achievements do not solely stem from intellectual prowess; rather, they are deeply influenced by one's emotional readiness to face challenges head-on and the ability to maintain focus despite obstacles.
Ultimately, the IB program does not merely instruct us on what to think; it emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-awareness throughout the learning process. As I prepare to transition into the Diploma Programme (DP), I am confident that the affective skills I have cultivated will accompany me, extending their influence beyond the academic realm and enriching various aspects of my life. The lessons learned during these formative years at Manchester will serve as a foundation for my continued growth, both within educational contexts and in my interactions with the world around me.
