A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SUBJECTS IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION CURRICULA IN CONNECTION TO BUDDHIST ISSUES

Abstract

The study found that the old curricula had focused on the Scriptures and practice more than modern days’ curricula. It covered not only the theories, but also the how-to. The earlier curricula also emphasized the Sila under the Threefold Learning and, though very little coverage on Samadhi, it did underline methods to cultivate true wisdom. It is worth noting that the Thai language classes in the earlier days had a broader integration with the training in higher wisdom (Pannasikkha) than the subject of Buddhism itself. However, the training in concentration (Samadhisikkha) is lacking. From the perspective of Buddhism, the curricula are not as complete when considering the practice aspect of the training. As a result, it can be concluded that all of the education curricula has had only partial ingetration into the Buddhist Scriptures and practice.