Preparing for the IB Extended Essay Interview: Reflection, Readiness, and Significant Impact
In the world of the International Baccalaureate (IB), the viva voce plays a crucial role in the Extended Essay (EE) process. This final, reflective interview with an EE supervisor offers students a chance to delve deeper into their research, discuss challenges, and demonstrate authentic engagement with their topic.
The viva voce, typically lasting between 10 to 30 minutes, is a significant step in the EE journey. Its primary purpose is to confirm the student's understanding of their research, verify the authenticity of the work, and provide an opportunity to discuss the research journey – including successes, obstacles, critical thinking, and learning experiences.
The viva voce contributes indirectly to Criterion E (Engagement), worth 6 marks. This criterion evaluates students on how well they have demonstrated commitment to the research process, critical thinking, and reflection. Insights from the viva, combined with written reflections, often form the basis for assessing this criterion, making it crucial for maximizing the score in this area.
During the viva voce, it is essential to be honest, confident, and positive. Honest reflection is valued by the IB. If something is forgotten during the interview, it is acceptable to take a moment or admit it honestly.
Preparing effectively for the viva voce involves reviewing notes from the Researcher's Reflection Space (RRS). Common questions to prepare for in the viva voce include questions about challenges faced, personal growth, potential changes, surprises during research, and evaluation of skills and IB Learner Profile traits.
Resources like RevisionDojo provide valuable assistance in this regard. They offer model viva voce questions and answers, reflection templates, and video walkthroughs. Moreover, they provide real student examples with supervisor feedback, aiding in understanding the expectations and providing a roadmap for success.
Remember, the ideal answer length during the viva voce is 1-2 minutes per answer. It is also important to be ready to defend the argument, explain the methodology, and clarify sources and interpretations.
In essence, the viva voce in the Extended Essay context is a brief, purposeful reflective interview that substantiates and deepens the evaluation of student engagement with their EE research process, directly influencing their Criterion E assessment. So, gear up, revise, and make the most of this opportunity to showcase your growth and engagement in the Extended Essay.
The viva voce not only verifies the authenticity of the work but also provides an opportunity to discuss the research journey, including personal growth experienced during the project. Effective preparation for the viva voce involves reviewing notes from the Researcher's Reflection Space and being ready to answer questions related to challenges faced, learning experiences, and the application of IB Learner Profile traits.
