IB Digital Society uses a specific vocabulary that students must understand and apply accurately. Many marks are lost not because students misunderstand digital systems, but because they misuse or vaguely apply key terms. While the course discourages memorisation, clear understanding of terminology is essential for precise analysis and evaluation.
This article provides a student-friendly glossary of essential IB Digital Society terms and explains how they should be used in exams and the internal assessment.
Why Terminology Matters in Digital Society
IB Digital Society is a concept-driven subject. Examiners look for accurate use of terminology to assess understanding.
Correct terminology helps students:
- Communicate ideas clearly
- Apply concepts consistently
- Avoid vague or generic explanations
- Demonstrate subject-specific understanding
Using terms inaccurately can weaken even strong arguments.
Digital System
A digital system is a set of interconnected digital components that collect, process, and use data to produce outcomes.
In Digital Society, a digital system:
- Has defined components
- Operates according to rules or algorithms
- Produces social impacts
Students should always analyse a specific digital system, not “technology” in general.
Algorithm
An algorithm is a set of rules or instructions that a digital system follows to process data or make decisions.
In IB Digital Society, algorithms are analysed for:
- How they influence outcomes
