The Development of Buddhist-oriented Group Process Activities to Enhance 21st Century Life Skills for Youth at Wat Lat Pla Khao School, Si Prachan District, Suphanburi Province

Abstract

This research has three objectives: 1) to study the Buddhist principles related to the development of 21st century life skills for youths at Wat Lat Pla Khao School, Si Prachan District, Suphan Buri Province; 2) to design a group process based on the Buddhist way of life that promotes 21st century life skills; and 3) to organize a group process activity based on the Buddhist way of life for youths in the school to develop comprehensive life skills. The research method used was a mixed methods research, consisting of documentary research to analyze the relevant principles, qualitative research by collecting data from in-depth interviews with 10 informants, and focus groups with 9 participants, consisting of youths, teachers, and monks in the area, as well as action research by organizing an experimental activity with a group of 25 youths to measure the results before and after participating in the activity.

The results of the study found that Buddhist principles can be used as an important tool to develop youths’ life skills comprehensively in the dimensions of emotions, minds, society, and behavior, especially the use of important principles: Adhipanya, Adhijitti, Sanghavatthu 4, Bodhipakkhiyadhamma 37, Yoniso Manasikara, and the 4 Bases of Power, which can create an ethical foundation. Developing analytical thinking and life skills systematically In designing and organizing group process activities according to the Buddhist way, it was found that all 4 types of activities, namely role-playing, self-reflection stage, digital world analysis, and Dharma games, can stimulate youths to dare to express themselves, be responsible, know how to set goals, control themselves, understand themselves, and be able to apply Dharma principles to real life. This reflects the potential of integrating Dharma principles into participatory learning processes that respond to the goals of education in the 21st century.