Creativity Action Service(CAS)
CAS is a fundamental part of the Diploma Programme experience. The CAS requirement takes seriously the importance of life outside the world of academics. The IB goal of educating the whole person and fostering a more compassionate and active citizenry comes alive in an immediate way when students reach beyond themselves and their books.  The CAS requirement encourages students to share their energy and talents with others; students might, for example, participate in theatre or musical productions, sports, community service and service learning activities. Through these activities, students should develop greater self-awareness and concern for others, as well as the ability to work cooperatively. Creativity is interpreted broadly to include a wide range of arts activities as well as the creativity students demonstrate in designing and implementing service projects. Action includes participation in physical activity in either or both individual and team sports. Service encompasses a host of experiential learning opportunities such as community, social service and service learning activities. Some examples include helping children with special needs, visiting hospitals and working with refugees or homeless people. As a result of their CAS experience as a whole, including their reflections, there should be evidence that students have - increased their awareness of their own strengths and areas for growth
- undertaken new challenges
- planned and initiated activities
- worked collaboratively with others
- shown perseverance and commitment in their activities
- engaged with issues of global importance
- considered the ethical implications of their actions
- developed new skills
The focus of CAS is on the learning outcomes listed above. These outcomes help to emphasize that it is the quality of a CAS activity (its contribution to the student’s development) that is of most importance. The guideline for the minimum amount of CAS activity is approximately three to four hours per week, carried out on a continual basis over an 18-month period, including July and August between Year 1 and 2, with a reasonable balance between creativity, action and service. |