INTEGRATING CHARACTER AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IN SCOUT EDUCATION: INSIGHTS FROM THE GONTOR MODEL

Mohammad Muslih; Syarifah Syarifah; Riza Ashari; Saiful Anwar; Harisman H

doi:10.56489/j6y8md15

Authors

Mohammad Muslih UNIDA (Universitas Darussalam) Gontor, Ponorogo
Syarifah Syarifah UNIDA (Universitas Darussalam) Gontor, Ponorogo
Riza Ashari UNIDA (Universitas Darussalam) Gontor, Ponorogo
Saiful Anwar UNIDA (Universitas Darussalam) Gontor, Ponorogo
Harisman H UNIDA (Universitas Darussalam) Gontor, Ponorogo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56489/j6y8md15

Keywords:

Character Education, Experiential Learning, Scouting Education, Holistic Education, Boarding School

Abstract

This study examines the integration of character education and experiential learning within scout education using the Gontor model as a case study. Character education remains a key concern in contemporary education, yet many institutions struggle to implement value formation in sustainable and practice-oriented ways. This research employs a qualitative case study approach involving interviews, observations, and document analysis to explore how scouting functions as a medium for character formation within a holistic boarding school system. The findings reveal that scouting operates as a structured experiential platform where discipline, leadership, responsibility, and cooperation are internalized through recurring real-life activities. The effectiveness of the model is supported by institutional coherence, including mentorship systems, peer leadership structures, and value-based boarding culture. This study contributes by conceptualizing scouting as an institutionalized experiential learning ecosystem rather than a supplementary extracurricular activity. The findings suggest that sustainable character education requires systemic integration between experiential programs and institutional culture. The study offers practical insights for educational institutions seeking to strengthen holistic character education through structured experiential learning.

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