Gotong Royong - Service Learning

Part of a Unique Adventure is making a difference! The literal translation of the Indonesian term ‘Gotong Royong’ is ‘Mutual Aid’. It can be compared to the more generic term of ‘Service Learning’ that is embedded in many international schools, including IB schools that adopt the CAS programme.

At CCS, Gotong Royong is directly aligned to the CCS Values and definition of Global Citizenship:

• We develop our curiosity about the world and extend our respect and appreciation of diversity.
• We engage in local and global issues and affect positive change as balanced and self-aware global citizens.
• We leverage technology responsibly and ethically to foster community on a global scale.  

Gotong Royong offers a unique way for all at CCS to get involved with their communities, by integrating service projects into the curriculum. As a form of experiential education, Gotong Royong connects theory to practice by applying classroom academic learning to ‘real-world’ social, economic and environmental problems in the community. Gotong Royong aims to enhance learning while contributing to building and revitalising communities at the school, the wider community throughout Bali, and even at national and global levels.

Gotong Royong promises to strengthen academic skills and increase motivation for educational achievement.

Gotong Royong can be applied across all subject areas and all year groups; it can involve a single student or group of students, a classroom, year group, or the whole school! Through collaboration with community partners, learners, teachers, staff and parents, service projects will be created that tackle issues including: health, education, public safety, hunger and homelessness, immigration and discrimination and the environment. Projects may take place over the course of two weeks, a semester, or even a year. 

During Years 7-11, CCS students will engage in semester-long projects in small groups facilitated by teachers. Following the Roots and Shoots model for service learning, students are empowered as compassionate leaders to plan and take action in their communities. Students spend one lesson each week implementing their campaigns with the potential for other off-campus activities.

During Years 12 and 13, CCS students will be undertaking the CAS programme in line with IB expectations. Students will be expected to plan for a range of activities, long and short term over an 18 month period, including one project that lasts for a minimum of 12 months. The general expectation is that students in the CAS programme will spend three to four hours a week undertaking CAS activities with a reasonable balance across creativity, activity and service.

Gotong Royong Learning Outcomes:

• Upon completion of projects, learners, teachers, staff and parents should be aware of their
• achievements, including some of the following:
• Identification of strengths and areas for growth
• Development of new skills, increased knowledge, understanding and a sense of cultural intelligence
• Working collaboratively in pursuit of a common goal
• Dedication and determination even in adversity
• Identification and positive action of a local/global issue to advance the community
• Compassion for others and an awareness of the consequences of their actions