This Meet the Teacher blog is written by Ms. Umadevi, who has been teaching for the past 32 years—31 of those years in Lesotho, Southern Africa, and 1 year in India. During this time, she taught IB Business Management for 12 years. Currently, she is not working, having taken a break in June 2024.
The information shared in this blog reflects her personal experiences throughout her extensive teaching career.
1.What made you become an IB Business Management teacher, and how did your journey begin and how long have you been teaching the subject?
My journey to becoming teacher was not initially planned, but it has turned out to be a deeply fulfilling career. I have been a teacher for 33 years, and for the past 11 years, I have had the privilege of teaching IB Business Management. Although teaching was not part of my original career aspirations, circumstances led me to this profession, and I have never regretted the decision. Teaching IB Business Management has been especially rewarding due to its practical application, which adds a unique level of enjoyment to the subject. Currently, I am on a break from work, but my passion for teaching remains strong, and I continue to find great satisfaction in guiding students through this engaging and dynamic subject.
2. What is the make-up and structure of your current IB class? Do you teach HL and SL? Together or separately? How many students do you have per class? Do you teach other curriculums or subjects?
Currently I am not working, I took a break from 2024 June, before 2024 June, I taught both Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) students in my IB Business Management class. Typically, these groups were taught together, with activities designed for SL students during HL lessons to keep them engaged and allow them to revise their portion of the syllabus. My class sizes usually ranged from 15 to 20 students, which created an environment conducive to personalized and interactive learning. In addition to teaching IB Business Management, I have also taught other subjects, such as Business Studies, Accounting, and Commerce, across different curricula. However, my primary focus has always been on Business Management within the IB framework. This broad teaching experience has allowed me to offer diverse perspectives in my lessons and adapt my teaching methods to meet the varying needs of each group.
3.Can you share a memorable moment or activity from your classroom that highlights the unique dynamics of teaching IB Business?
A memorable moment in my classroom that highlights the unique dynamics of teaching IB Business occurred during a group project on Hofstede's cultural dimensions. The task required students to choose countries that were most applicable to the different dimensions outlined by Hofstede. What made this experience particularly impactful was the diversity of perspectives within the class—students from various cultural backgrounds each brought their own insights based on their unique understanding of the global business environment. One group, for example, was tasked with analyzing the Japanese market. The students in this group not only researched typical business strategies for Japan but also incorporated personal experiences and cultural nuances into their presentation, sparking a fascinating discussion about cultural adaptation in business. The moment that truly stood out was when a student shared a story about her family’s business in India and how they had to adapt their marketing strategies to local customs. This real-world connection helped the entire class better understand the importance of cultural factors in international business. It served as a powerful reminder of how IB Business, with its global focus and emphasis on real-world application, fosters a collaborative environment where students learn from one another and engage with the subject matter in a meaningful and dynamic way.
4. What is one teaching strategy you've implemented that has significantly improved student engagement and understanding?
One teaching strategy that has significantly improved student engagement and understanding is group rotation. This method allows students to explore different perspectives on case studies or tasks assigned to them. In addition, I incorporate peer tutoring alongside class presentations. I divide the students into groups, with one learner assisting others, guiding them through the task, and then leading a class presentation. This approach not only fosters collaboration but also enables me to evaluate whether the students have understood the material by observing their interactions. It encourages whole-class involvement, as students help each other grasp the concepts more effectively. While this strategy can be time-consuming, it leads to long-lasting learning. I prefer to provide tasks that motivate and initiate student-led learning, as this approach has proven to be highly beneficial in enhancing engagement and understanding.
5. Do you incorporate real-world business scenarios into your lessons for students? If so, how?
Yes, incorporating real-world business scenarios into lessons is an effective way to help students understand the practical application of business concepts. This approach allows learners to research and comprehend the different types of businesses and their various functions. One method I use is presenting case studies based on actual companies or industries, where a company might face challenges such as a decline in sales or the need for innovation. Students analyze the situation, identify key problems, and propose solutions using relevant business frameworks. Additionally, I guide students through simulations that mirror business decisions in areas such as marketing, finance, and operations, where they might make decisions about product pricing, budgeting, or entering new markets. I also incorporate discussions about current events, such as mergers, disruptive innovations, or shifts in market dynamics, to help students see how theories play out in real-world scenarios and understand the fast-changing business landscape. Moreover, providing tasks that involve identifying existing business organizations and researching them further allows students to connect theory with practice by examining how these organizations operate in the real world.
6. What are some common challenges students face in IB Business, and how do you help them overcome these obstacles?
1. Understanding Complex Concepts
Concepts such as change, culture, ethics, globalization, and innovation can be difficult for students to apply effectively in case studies. The challenge often lies in connecting these abstract concepts to real-world business scenarios.Solution: To address this, I break these concepts down into simpler terms and use real-world examples that are relevant to students. This helps them understand the practical application of these concepts and how they play out in different business contexts.
2. Grasping Complex Topics in the Syllabus
Topics like business strategies, marketing, and finance can be particularly complex and intimidating for many students. These areas require a solid understanding of both theory and practice. Solution: I use a variety of visual aids—such as diagrams, charts, and case studies—to help students better understand these topics. Relating the theories to businesses they are familiar with makes the material more tangible and easier to grasp.
3. Time Management and Meeting Deadlines
Time management is a major challenge, especially when students need to balance multiple tasks, including case studies, assignments, and internal assessments, within tight deadlines. Solution: I assist students by helping them set clear, manageable goals and break down larger tasks into smaller, more achievable steps. Encouraging them to create weekly schedules, prioritize tasks, and set deadlines ahead of official ones helps them stay on track. Additionally, I teach effective revision techniques to ensure they can manage their time well, especially when preparing for exams.
4. Internal Assessments (IAs) and Extended Essays (EEs)
Conducting independent research for IAs and EEs can be overwhelming for students, as it requires careful planning, research, and analysis. Solution: I guide students in refining their research questions and structuring their essays properly. I also provide detailed feedback to help them improve their work and stay on top of deadlines. Regular check-ins and progress reviews ensure that they stay focused and make steady progress on their assessments.
5. Analysis and Evaluation of Case Study Scenarios
Students often struggle with analyzing and evaluating case study scenarios, which requires them to apply business concepts in-depth. This can be a complex task, especially when it comes to drawing conclusions and offering well-supported evaluations.Solution: I encourage students to practice past exam papers and focus on developing their skills in analysis, discussion, and evaluation. I emphasize the importance of using appropriate business terminology to strengthen their responses and help them understand the structure and expectations of the exam questions.
In summary, the main challenges in IB Business are understanding complex concepts, mastering the syllabus, managing time effectively, handling IAs and EEs, and analyzing case studies. By providing practical solutions and ongoing support, students can overcome these obstacles and perform successfully in the course
7. In your opinion, what are the key skills that students need to develop to succeed in IB Business? And how do you develop them?
To succeed in IB Business, students need to develop a combination of academic, analytical, and practical skills. These skills not only help them excel in the subject but also prepare them for the business world. Here are the key skills and how I help students develop them:
1. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Why it's important: IB Business requires students to analyze business situations, evaluate strategies, and draw conclusions. Developing critical thinking helps them not only understand the material but also apply it to real-world scenarios. How I develop it: I encourage students to question assumptions, challenge ideas, and look at case studies from different perspectives. In class, I use discussion-based activities that promote problem-solving and decision-making. Additionally, students practice analyzing case studies, where they must identify key issues, evaluate alternatives, and justify decisions using evidence and business theory.
2. Research Skills
Why it's important: Independent research is essential, especially for assessments like the Internal Assessment (IA) and Extended Essay (EE). The ability to gather, interpret, and synthesize data is crucial. How I develop it: I teach students how to use reliable sources, conduct effective online research, and collect data in a structured manner. I also guide them in refining their research questions to ensure that they are focused and feasible. Throughout the research process, I emphasize the importance of data analysis and linking findings to relevant business concepts.
3. Time Management and Organizational Skills
Why it's important: Given the wide range of tasks in IB Business, from assignments to exams and internal assessments, students need to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and balance their workload. How I develop it: I help students break down their tasks into smaller, manageable steps and encourage them to create detailed schedules. I also teach them the importance of setting priorities and avoiding procrastination. By regularly checking in on their progress, I can help students stay on track and ensure they allocate time for both short-term tasks and long-term projects.
4. Communication Skills (Written and Verbal)
Why it's important: Clear communication is essential in IB Business, both in writing and speaking. Students need to present their ideas concisely and use business terminology appropriately, whether in case study responses, essays, or presentations. How I develop it: I emphasize the importance of structuring responses clearly, with a logical flow of ideas and evidence-based arguments. I give students opportunities to practice writing case study answers, essays, and short responses with specific attention to clarity and coherence. In class discussions and group activities, I encourage students to articulate their thoughts and engage in debates, helping them refine their verbal communication skills.
5. Application of Business Theory to Real-World Situations
Why it's important: IB Business is not just about learning theory; it’s about applying that theory to real-world business problems and scenarios. Being able to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical situations is vital. How I develop it: I use a variety of real-world case studies and current business examples to help students relate the theory to practice. I also encourage them to keep up with business news and trends, as this helps them understand how theoretical concepts are implemented in the business world. Through these discussions, I challenge them to think critically about how businesses make decisions and address challenges.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration
Why it's important: Many aspects of IB Business involve working in groups—whether it's for collaborative assignments, presentations, or discussions. Effective teamwork skills are essential for success in group-based tasks and in the business environment. How I develop it: I incorporate group activities into the classroom, where students are required to work together on case studies, business simulations, or presentations. I guide them in practicing active listening, respecting diverse viewpoints, and delegating tasks effectively. These experiences help students build their collaboration skills and learn how to work well in teams.
7. Business Terminology and Conceptual Understanding
Why it's important: Being able to use the correct business terminology and understand key concepts is crucial for excelling in exams and assignments. How I develop it: I regularly review key terminology and concepts in class, encouraging students to incorporate them into their written and spoken work. I also use interactive methods, like quizzes and flashcards, to reinforce their understanding and help them retain important terms.
By developing these skills, students not only improve their performance in IB Business but also acquire essential tools for success in their future academic and professional careers. Regular practice, feedback, and engagement in the learning process are essential in helping students master these skills.
8. If you could give one piece of advice to new IB Business Management teachers, what would it be and why?
If I had to give one piece of advice to new IB Business Management teachers, it would be to foster critical thinking and real-world connections. IB Business Management is about understanding how businesses operate in the real world and how theory, along with business management tools, can be applied to address various issues within the business environment. Encouraging students to think critically, analyze case studies, and draw connections between their studies and current events can make the content more engaging and relevant. This approach is essential because the IB program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and the development of independent thinkers. By guiding students to question, research, and debate real-life situations, you help them develop skills that will be useful in their careers, all while keeping the classroom dynamic and thought-provoking.
9. Share anything else you would like
One of the most important aspects of teaching the IB Business curriculum is its strong emphasis on global awareness, which encourages students to not only refer to textbook theories but also engage with the world around them. I find it rewarding to watch students begin to make connections between what they learn in class and real-world events. This ability to relate theoretical concepts to practical situations helps them deepen their understanding and see the relevance of business education in a global context.
Another aspect I truly value is how much students learn from one another in a diverse classroom setting. Each student brings their own unique experiences and perspectives, and I enjoy witnessing them teach and support each other—whether through peer tutoring or sharing insights during class discussions. It’s important to recognize how much collaborative learning enhances the overall educational experience, creating an environment where students can engage with and learn from one another in meaningful ways.
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