CAS Learning Outcomes

Understanding the CAS learning outcomes
The CAS coordinator, advisers and supporting staff, as well as the students, must share a common understanding of the language and meaning of each learning outcome. For example, students may need more clarity with the term “challenges”, and determine, for example, that a challenge could be taking on a completely new or unfamiliar CAS experience, or an extension of an existing one. Coordinators, advisers and supporting staff are reminded that each student may have a unique way of meeting the CAS learning outcomes, and will serve the students best by avoiding comparing student accomplishment. Recognizing each student’s CAS journey is imperative when referencing the CAS learning outcomes.

Learning outcome descriptors
Students may gain stronger understanding of CAS learning outcomes when explained through the use of descriptors. The CAS coordinator and students can discuss each CAS learning outcome and design descriptors specific to the school and students.
The following chart shows example descriptors for each CAS learning outcome. These descriptors are provided only as suggestions; they are not exhaustive, and can be adapted, edited, and more may be added. Further, not all descriptors must be met; it is the CAS coordinator’s decision with the student as to whether the CAS learning outcome has been achieved. 

CAS learning outcomes

Learning outcome 1:  Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth Suggested descriptors  The student: is aware of own strengths and weaknesses  is open to improvement and growth opportunities  is able to propose activities according to own interests and talents  is willing to participate in different activities  is able to undertake a thoughtful self-evaluation  is able to see themselves as individuals with various abilities and skills, some more developed than others.

Learning outcome 2:  Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process Suggested descriptors The student: participates in an experience that demands an appropriate personal challenge; this could be with new or familiar experiences  is willing to become involved in unfamiliar environments and situations  acquires new skills and abilities  increases expertise in an established area  shows newly acquired or developed skills or increased expertise in an established area.

Learning outcome 3: Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience Suggested descriptors The student: is able to articulate the CAS stages including investigation, preparation, action, reflection (ongoing) and demonstration, moving from conceiving an idea to carrying out a plan for a CAS experience or series of CAS experiences  demonstrates knowledge and awareness by building on a previous CAS experience  shows initiative by launching a new idea or process  suggests creative ideas, proposals or solutions  integrates reflective thoughts in planning or taking initiative  is aware of roles and responsibilities when designing an individual or collective CAS experience  shows responsible attitude to CAS project planning  is able to develop a coherent action plan taking into account the aim or purpose, activities and resources.

Learning outcome 4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences Suggested descriptors  The student: demonstrates regular involvement and active engagement with CAS experiences and CAS project  is able to foresee potential challenges to the initial plan and consider valid alternatives and contingencies  demonstrates adaptability to uncertainties and changes  gets involved in long-term CAS experiences and CAS project.

Learning outcome 5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively Suggested descriptors  The student: shares skills and knowledge  listens respectfully to proposals from peers  is willing to take on different roles within a team  shows respect for different points of view and ideas  makes valuable contributions  is responsible for participating in the group  readily assists others  is able to identify, demonstrate and discuss critically the benefits and challenges of collaboration gained through CAS experiences.

Learning outcome 6:  Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance Suggested descriptors  The student: recognizes the global implications of local issues  is able to identify global issues in the local or national community  shows awareness of issues of global importance and takes concrete and appropriate actions in response to them either locally, nationally or internationally  gets involved in CAS projects addressing global issues in a local, national or international context  develops awareness and responsibility towards a shared humanity.

Learning outcome 7:

Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Suggested descriptors 

The student:

• recognizes ethical issues 
• is able to explain the social influences on one’s ethical identity 
• takes into account cultural context when making a plan or ethical decision 
• identifies what is needed to know in order to make an ethical decision 
• articulates ethical principles and approaches to ethical decisions 
• shows accountability for choices and actions 
• is aware of the consequences of choices and actions regarding self, others involved and the community 
• integrates the process of reflection when facing an ethical decision 
• shows awareness of the potential and varied consequences of choices and actions in planning and carrying out CAS experiences.