Indonesia has a unique and diverse education system which reflects its varied culture and traditions. For language learners and those interested in the educational context of the country, understanding the Indonesian vocabulary related to schooling and the educational system is crucial. Here is a list of essential Indonesian schooling vocabulary and their definitions:
Pendidikan – Education
This is a general term which refers to the system or process of educating or being educated.
Pendidikan di Indonesia wajib bagi anak usia 6 hingga 18 tahun.
Sekolah – School
This word refers to an institution for educating children.
Saya pergi ke sekolah setiap hari kecuali hari Minggu.
Murid / Siswa – Student (elementary and secondary)
In Indonesia, ‘murid’ is commonly used for primary school students while ‘siswa’ for secondary and high school students.
Banyak murid di sekolah dasar yang memakai seragam.
Mahasiswa – University student
This term is specifically used for students who are studying at the university level.
Mahasiswa itu sedang mempersiapkan skripsinya.
Guru – Teacher
A person who teaches, especially in a school.
Guru matematika itu sangat disukai oleh anak-anak karena cara mengajarnya yang menarik.
Dosen – Lecturer
This term refers to a university academic who teaches and also may conduct research.
Dosen saya sangat pandai dalam ilmu sejarah.
Kurikulum – Curriculum
The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
Kurikulum baru ini diharapkan bisa meningkatkan kualitas pendidikan.
Pelajaran – Lesson or Subject
This refers to a fixed period of time during which learning is intended to occur.
Pelajaran biologi hari ini sangat menarik.
Ujian – Exam or Test
A formal assessment of a student’s knowledge or proficiency in a certain subject.
Siswa kelas dua belas akan menghadapi ujian nasional minggu depan.
Sekolah Dasar (SD) – Elementary School
This refers to the first level of compulsory education in Indonesia for children aged 6-12.
Anak saya baru masuk Sekolah Dasar tahun ini.
Sekolah Menengah Pertama (SMP) – Junior High School
This educational stage caters to students aged 13-15.
Kakak saya sekarang bersekolah di Sekolah Menengah Pertama.
Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) – Senior High School
Secondary school for students aged 16-18.
Setelah lulus dari Sekolah Menengah Atas, dia ingin melanjutkan pendidikan ke perguruan tinggi.
Universitas – University
An institution of higher education and research which grants academic degrees in various subjects.
Universitas Indonesia adalah salah satu universitas terbaik di negara ini.
Seragam Sekolah – School Uniform
The standardized clothing worn by students during their education at school.
Semua murid harus memakai seragam sekolah yang telah ditetapkan.
Understanding these terms should provide a solid foundation for those looking to discuss educational topics or navigate the schooling environment in Indonesia. Whether you are a student, teacher, or just a language enthusiast, expanding your vocabulary in this area will greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in an Indonesian educational context.
