Developing Character Education Based on Local Wisdom

The aim of this research was to develop character education model based on common values of local wisdom. The research applied a modified development research with four stages:
survey to find common value in local wisdom, develop character
education model, model internal validation and external validation. This research found thirty three common values and those
associated with two dimensions of life; the heart versus mind and
personal versus social. Three instructional strategies were successfully developed: integrated into every theme, as an objective
in extra-curricular, and implemented as school culture. Internal
validation indicated that the strategies were appropriate for improving students’ character. External validation found that the
strategies could improve students’ capability in implementing the
values of honesty, creativity, toughness, and caring. The finding
reinforces theory that moral knowing does not automatically become a moral feeling and moral feeling does not automatically become moral action. Thus, teacher’s example is the key factor in
the development of student character.