THE APPLICATION OF THE SEVEN KALYĀṆAMITTA DHAMMA 7 TO PROMOTE LEARNING AND INNOVATION SKILLS OF STUDENTS AT BAN DONG TA WANG SCHOOL, PHO SAI DISTRICT, UBON RATCHATHANI PROVINCE

Abstract

Abstract

          This research article aims to: 1) examine the current state of learning skill development among students at Ban Dong Ta Wang School, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province; 2) study the principle of Kalyanamitta in Theravada Buddhism; and 3) apply the Seven Kalyanamitta Qualities to promote learning and innovation skills among students at Ban Dong Ta Wang School, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. This study employs a qualitative research methodology, drawing on primary sources namely the Thai-language Tipitaka published by Mahamakut Rajavidyalaya as well as secondary sources and field research conducted through in-depth interviews with twelve key informants, comprising education academics, school administrators, government teachers, parents, and students. The research instrument used was an interview form. Data were analyzed through content analysis and findings are presented using descriptive analysis.

The research findings revealed that: 1) the promotion of learning skills is oriented toward developing 21st-century competencies through active learning, whereby positive interaction and trust between teachers and students serve as critical factors in fostering motivation and the development of analytical thinking and communication skills; 2) the Seven Kalyanamitta Qualities  Piyo, Garu, Bhāvanīyo, Vattā, Vacanakkhamo, Gambhīrañca Kathaṃ Kattā, and No Caṭṭhāne Niyojaye  function to stimulate learners toward right thinking, which constitutes the starting point for intellectual development in accordance with the principles of the Threefold Training (Tisikkhā); and 3) the application of the Seven Kalyanamitta Qualities in promoting learning skills revealed that teachers integrate these Dhamma principles into their instructional processes through loving-kindness, positive communication, and attentive listening, with the aim of developing critical thinking, collaboration, and ethical learning  ultimately enabling students to develop their learning skills effectively and sustainably.