Buddhist Educational Administration and Instruction in the 21st Century

Abstract

This study integrates the body of knowledge on 21st-century Buddhist educational administration and instruction with the framework of the National Scheme of Education (B.E. 2560–2579). The findings reveal that the operational mechanisms to successfully drive educational institutions and satisfy the "Excellent Education, Happy Living" policy comprise three systematically interconnected core components: 1) Buddhist Educational Administration: utilizing Iddhipada IV (Paths of Accomplishment) to drive human capital and foster intrinsic motivation; applying Sangahavatthu IV (Bases of Social Solidarity) for personnel management and positive relationship-building rooted in transparency and equity; and developing modern leadership competencies through Dhutiya-papanika-sutta (possessing vision, excellent management, and outstanding interpersonal skills) and Sappurisadhamma VII to adapt to community contexts and sustain student-centered approaches. 2) Buddhist Pedagogical Practices: shifting from content-based curricula to holistic student development via Trisikkha (Morality, Mentality, Wisdom) to enhance crucial soft skills; and implementing active learning through Yonisomanasikara (analytical thinking) and the Four Noble Truths to foster critical thinking, right views, and practical problem-solving in the modern world. 3) Systemic Implementation Mechanisms: employing School-Based Management (SBM) through strategic alignment, empowering teacher professional development via Professional Learning Communities (PLC) coupled with instructional leadership and ensuring sustainability through data-driven internal quality assurance. The integration of these frameworks generates the conceptual model of "Buddhist Educational Innovation and Learning," transforming schools into safe and sustainably happy environments. This ultimately achieves the paramount educational goal of nurturing holistic individuals possessing genuine 21st-century competencies.