Theory of Knowledge

The Theory of Knowledge programme at Dulwich College (Singapore) is a taught course with students scheduled for 4 classes over two weeks in Year 12 and 3 classes over 2 weeks for Year 13. It deals with the question "How do we know?" - which is the main over arching question that is asked throughout TOK. The greatest compliment to TOK is that this course is the one every student remembers the most after a couple of years of University - and often says "I get what TOK was all about now!"

This may already sound a little too heavy or philosophical for you? Well fear not - the TOK course at Dulwich College (Singapore) is there to break down this question using a simple model to enable you to answer this within many subject areas and within real life situations.

The easiest way to explain it is to give an example starting with a question - "Is knowledge in Mathematics constructed differently to that of the Sciences?" Initially you may think the knowledge in these two subjects is similar - but then can you answer the question of why when something is proven in Maths many centuries ago it is still true now? While knowledge in science is constantly being changed, proved incorrect and updated - just look at a timeline of the last 100 years from Einsteins theory of relativity, to the Higgs Bosun?

Once you begin to understand that knowledge is actually very different across disciplines and domains then the TOK world will open up to you - and you will be able to start asking more questions: -

  • What ways do we have of knowing, how do we use them, and how might we use them better?
  • What are the best methods of reaching reliable conclusions in different areas of knowledge and public life?
  • How do different areas of knowledge enrich our overall understanding?
  • What responsibilities does knowledge bring?

Assessment in TOK

There are no final examinations in TOK - just one presentation on a knowledge question towards the end of Year 12 and one 1200 word essay written on one of 6 titles. View a sample presentation from a past student and also a sample essay. I am not saying either are the best but it will give you an idea of what you will be aiming and studying towards.

TOK Subject Brief


TOK in pictures

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Is TOK actually valuable at the university level - 'Absolutely. Consider a pre-med track. Ethical decision making and how to apply your knowledge when working with patients or conducting research is something that you will be asked to study and, believe it or not, TOK was preparation for this.' - University of Rochester students