The role of monk in life-long learning

Abstract

This article presents the significant role of Buddhist monks as educational leaders in Thai society from past to present, particularly in developing Pali studies, general Buddhist schools, and educational opportunities for communities through the collaboration of homes, temples, and schools (BOW: Ban, Wat, Rongrian), with temples serving as community learning centers. The study reveals that ecclesiastical monks play a crucial role in managing lifelong learning for communities through five components: 1) philosophy and theory, 2) principles and goals, 3) educational management activities, 4) learning management and assessment, and 5) learning resources. These findings reflect the importance of Buddhism in Thai community development, both in terms of kinship relationships and learning communities.