Development of a Curriculum to Enhance Wisdom and Morality Based on Thai and International Buddhist Principles

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) investigate the current conditions, problems, and needs for developing a curriculum that enhances wisdom and morality based on Thai and international Buddhist principles; 2) examine the components of such a curriculum; and 3) propose policy guidelines for its development. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected from 350 participants, including administrators, lecturers, students, alumni, and graduate employers, using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Qualitative data were obtained through document analysis, in-depth interviews with 25 key informants, and focus group discussions with 20 experts. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.
The findings revealed that: 
1) the current state of curriculum development for enhancing wisdom and morality based on Thai and international Buddhist principles was at a high level overall ( = 4.38). Major problems included insufficient budget support for learning media and educational innovation development, as well as inadequate information technology infrastructure and equipment. The overall need for curriculum development was at the highest level ( = 4.54), particularly regarding the integration of morality, ethics, and Buddhist principles into all courses. 
2) The curriculum development framework consisted of six key components: curriculum design, instructors, learning management, resources and learning environment, assessment and evaluation, and graduate characteristics. 
3) Policy recommendations emphasized the enhancement of competency-based curricula, the development of instructors as wisdom coaches, the promotion of active and digital learning, the creation of supportive learning ecosystems, authentic assessment practices, and the cultivation of graduates with global competencies and moral integrity.
The study generated a new body of knowledge in the form of the WISDOM Model, comprising six components: Wellness & Wisdom, Innovative Ecosystem, Skill & Competency-Based Learning, Digital Platform, Outcome-Driven Assessment, and Mindful Facilitators. This model provides a framework for developing Buddhist curricula that integrate wisdom, morality, and digital innovation to produce high-quality graduates capable of living and working sustainably in a global society.