The TOK exhibition is the internally assessed component of the theory of knowledge in IBDP. The exhibition is a product of a compilation of the three objects which a student chooses in order to connect to one of the 35 IA prompts. The IB TOK2022 guide specifically mentions that the three objects must be linked to the same IA prompt.
For a successful and scoring TOK exhibition, students must base it either on the core theme or one of the optional themes.
TOK Exhibition means demonstrating the three objects with the purpose of broadly answering IA prompt chosen. The idea is to make the use of the three objects evident and obvious so as to weave through the chosen IA prompt.
For example, if you have chosen IA prompt number 16 – ‘Should some knowledge not be sought on ethical grounds?’, you may choose objects that include the use of technology and how it manifests us to draw connections with knowledge.
TOK exhibition objects sample:
TOK Exhibition sample
The TOK exhibition object sample 1 is an image of the article published on www.towardsdatascience.com The object is not a general object but is specific to the real-world context that exists in a particular time and place. It raises the ethical question about data sourcing and modeling including the methods and tools adopted while demonstrating the scope of the data and technology (knowledge framework).
TOK Exhibition object 2
The TOK Exhibition object sample 2 is an image of the news article published in The Times of India that glorifies the ethical stance of sex toy users in India. Typically, the use of technology in achieving sexual pleasures is not acceptable in Indian culture and values. The sex toy in itself is not looked upon as a healthy option. Here the article/image also exemplifies how seeking knowledge about the use of technology for sexual satisfaction is preferred to be unattended, undercovered, and undiscussed.
TOK Exhibition object sample 3
The TOK Exhibition object sample 3 is a curious case of an ethical dilemma about the use of robots as technology to teach students. The knowledge that can be sought here is how far robots can exactly replace humans? Can technology show and demonstrate similar empathy, care, and values that a teacher do while raising not just academic levels but also elevating various other needs. The above article/image has been taken from The ethical dilemma of robot teachers.
Students are requested to give all three articles a good read. Perhaps, any image they take from the virtual world must demonstrate a real-world context, and therefore reading the full article can help in explaining conducting the TOK exhibition.
If you notice carefully, all three objects can be linked to ‘Knowledge and Technology’, an optional theme. The arguments can be drawn on ethical grounds and by making connections between the objects and how TOK manifests the world around us. Further, all images of the objects must be clearly and appropriately referenced.
TOK Exhibition commentary
A single file document that contains 950 words of commentary based on the TOK exhibition along with images of the three objects and their specific real-world context. The TOK exhibition commentary must justify each object’s inclusion in the iA prompt.
TOK Exhibition examples
Essentially TOK exhibition commentary is a document that should not be more than 950 words. Students may divide the word count to approximately nearing 300 words each for better involvement of all the objects rather than favoring one and ignoring the other. Additionally, it is a work of a solo student and NOT a group.
In the above example, an argument is expected from the student to convey both pros and cons of ‘Should some knowledge not be sought on ethical grounds?’. The chosen object allows students to discuss the point of view, not in isolation, but as a whole. The theme assists students in establishing links and connections with the object. However, it is important that justification of the contribution of each individual object is included. The argument can be drawn through the thread of ethics and evidence can be presented with reference to IA prompt chosen.
