New Microsoft courses for IB Career-related Programme students

International Baccalaureate (IB) Career-related Programme students can now take two Microsoft courses: Microsoft Skills Modules and Microsoft Certification.

The Geneva-based nonprofit foundation said it has partnered with technology company Microsoft to launch the Microsoft Skills Learning Path (MSLP) courses.

“Digital technology and tools can play a central role in fostering a more inclusive and in-demand skilled-based labour market that can be advanced when we work together in new ways to provide students with easier access to develop these skills,” said Rick Herrmann, Vice President Worldwide Public Sector Education, at Microsoft.

The MSLP courses are self-paced, digital learning and resources to help build technology skills and understanding.

“Working with the IB helps us empower and enable students to gain expertise in high-demand technology skills through training, leading to industry-recognised Microsoft certifications,” said Herrmann.

Microsoft Corporation chief executive Satya Nadella speaks during the VivaTech (Viva Technology) trade fair in Paris. Source: Gerard Julien/AFP

Microsoft courses to cover emerging tech

The IB offers four international education programmes for students aged three to 19: Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme (CP).

Established in 2012, the CP is for those in the age range of 16 to 19 years old seeking a pathway to further/higher education, apprenticeships or employment.

The curriculum includes a minimum of two IB Diploma Programme (DP) courses, a core consisting of four components and a career-related study.

It’s seen as a more practical, real-world approach to learning. While the IB DP exams are marked externally, CP components are assessed by the school.

The new Microsoft courses add more technology skills and understanding that hone computational thinking, problem-solving, critical and design thinking and basic programming.

With the partnership, CP students can access Microsoft courses such as Coding, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Science. This is in addition to technical topics such as Microsoft Azure AI, Data Analytics or Cybersecurity.

The twoMicrosoft courses can be completed in person or via hybrid learning mode.