GUIDELINES FOR PALI STUDIES ENHANCEMENT ACCORDING TO THE FOUR SAṄGAHAVATTHU PRINCIPLES, PHRAPARIYATTIDHAMMA SCHOOL, KHOK PIEW TEMPLE, MUEANG SONGKHLA DISTRICT, SONGKHLA PROVINCE

Abstract

     This research aimed to: 1) study the current conditions of Pali studies at Phrapariyattidhamma School, Wat Khok Piew; 2) develop guidelines for promoting Pali learning based on the Four Sangahavatthu principles; and 3) propose appropriate guidelines suitable for the school context. This research employed a qualitative research methodology and was conducted in three stages: studying the current state, developing guidelines, and presenting the guidelines. The key informants consisted of 22 individuals, including administrators of the Phrapariyattidhamma school, teachers of Phrapariyattidhamma education in the Pali Division, and monks and novices studying Pali. In addition, 7 qualified experts participated in the focus group discussion. The research instruments included in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive synthesis.

The findings revealed that:

1. The current condition of Pali studies maintained strong educational standards under the Sangha education system; however, several problems were identified in five aspects, namely curriculum, teaching and learning management, instructional media, learning activities, and measurement and evaluation, particularly the complexity of content, memorization-based teaching methods, limited learning materials, insufficient learning activities, and evaluation focusing mainly on memorization.


2. The Four Sangahavatthu principles-dāna (giving), piyavācā (kind speech), atthacariyā (beneficial conduct), and samānattatā (equity) can be effectively integrated into all five aspects, enhancing educational resources, positive communication, learner support, and equality in education.


3. The appropriate guidelines should emphasize a holistic learning system by applying the Four Sangahavatthu principles as a mechanism to enhance motivation, improve the learning atmosphere, and promote sustainable learning achievement.