Developing the Competency of Morality Teaching Monks Based on Knowledge in the 21st Century, Sri Prachan District, Suphanburi Province

Abstract

The objectives of the research are 1) to analyze the teaching competency of morality teaching monks based on the 21^st century knowledge, 2) to create activities to develop the competency of morality teaching monks, and 3) to evaluate the changes of teaching practices of morality teaching monks in Si Prachan District, Suphan Buri Province. Qualitative research methodology is used together with the action research. The tools used in the research include teaching competency questionnaires, in-depth interviews, observation of learning management behavior, reflective activity suitability assessment form activity plans and lesson plans collected information by conducting in-depth interviews with 15 key informants who have experience in teaching Dharma in primary and secondary schools at least 2 years of experience teaching Dharma. Data analysis by descriptive data analysis and content analysis.

The results show that 1) the teaching competency of morality teaching monks is well expertise in the content of the Dharma and the transmission of traditional principles, but there are limitations in the use of technology, innovative instructional approaches, and the connection of principles to the real-life contexts in the 21^st century learners. Additionally, they lack classroom behavior management skills and systematic application of Buddhist psychology in teaching. 2) Four competency development activities are designed and implemented: the art of Dhamma teaching, digital Dhamma media creation, Buddhist leadership development, and creating an engaging Dhamma classroom. The changes in the teaching of morality teaching monks have been found to have professional development in the use of technology, Buddhist Leadership and classroom management. The 21^st century skills can be applied in learning management effectively and in the context of modern learners. The research knowledge is presented under the PĀVANĀ Model, which is a model for developing morality teaching monks’ competencies in the 21^st century by integrating Buddhist principles with modern learning management approaches.