In August 2024, UWCSEA launched the “IB Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change,” a revolutionary 300-hour pilot course co-developed with the International Baccalaureate (IB). Designed to be globally available by 2030, this course empowers students to become changemakers capable of leading sustainable, positive change within complex systems. It combines transdisciplinary learning with a strong emphasis on real-world application, equipping students with the skills, mindsets, and resilience needed to navigate and influence interconnected systems effectively.
This course will replace two Standard Level (SL) subjects, offering students a unique opportunity to focus deeply on leadership and systems transformation within the IB framework.
Key Course Components
Changemaker Mindsets
Students develop the essential mindsets for effective change-making, focusing on empathy, resilience, and adaptability. This component teaches students how to initiate and sustain change, considering the broader context in which they operate.
Design Thinking
This human-centered approach to problem-solving encourages students to innovate by deeply understanding the needs of those affected by the challenges they aim to solve. Through iterative processes, students create practical and impactful solutions.
Systems Thinking
Students learn to map, model, and analyze interconnected systems, recognizing the complexities and root causes of issues. This approach helps them understand how different components within a system interact and influence one another.
Leadership Development
The course hones students’ leadership abilities, focusing on strategies to empower others, build collaborative teams, and drive collective action. Leadership skills are cultivated through practical experiences and mentorship.
Project and Change Management
Students gain hands-on experience in planning, organizing, and implementing change initiatives. This includes developing and managing projects that translate ideas into actions with real-world impact.
Real-World Project Engagement
Students engage in diverse, impactful projects, such as:
Intercultural Understanding
Collaborating with diverse teams to enhance cultural understanding and promote global citizenship.
Peacebuilding
Exploring advocacy and activism as tools to foster peace and resolve conflicts.
Sustainability
Investigating and implementing holistic approaches to sustainable development.
Toy/Support Design
Creating therapeutic tools or toys through iterative design in collaboration with service partners.
Shifting Neighborhoods
Conducting research on cultural and generational shifts in Singaporean neighborhoods.
Innovative Solutions to Campus Initiatives
Developing innovative solutions to improve campus initiatives, such as the return of plates and cups.
Course Structure and Assessment
Curriculum Strands
The curriculum is divided into five strands—Changemaker Mindset, Design Thinking, Systems Thinking, Leading for Positive Change, and Project Management—each explored through project-based learning. This structure allows students to actively engage with complex real-world challenges.
Assessment
The course uses a blend of external and internal assessments, including impact analysis, competencies portfolios, case studies, and project proposals. These assessments reflect the action-oriented and practical nature of the course, ensuring students are evaluated on their ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
Career and Academic Relevance
The skills and knowledge acquired in this course are applicable across a wide range of fields, including business, STEM, education, public policy, and sustainable development. Students are prepared not only for academic success but also for leadership roles in any domain where driving change is crucial.
The “IB Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change” course at UWCSEA is more than just an academic program—it’s a transformative experience. It prepares students to be pioneers in educational and societal change, equipping them with the tools to make a meaningful, lasting impact on the world. This course is an exciting opportunity for students who aspire to lead and innovate in the face of global challenges.
