Guidelines for the Development of Democracy Based on Buddhist Principles in Secondary Schools under the Office of the Secondary Education Service Area, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province: A Case Study of Secondary Schools in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Abstract

The research on “Guidelines for Democratic Development Based on Buddhist Principles in Secondary Schools in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province” is a mixed-method study conducted in 4 secondary schools. The objectives were to study factors and key components in democratic development according to Buddhist principles and to propose guidelines for developing a democratic way of life.

The research found that the majority of respondents were female students with an average age of 15.52 years, studying in grade 11 and living with their parents. Factors related to democratic development in terms of perception, understanding, and attitude were at high levels. The key components of democratic development based on Buddhist principles consist of three main aspects. Moral Conduct: Emphasizes respect for different opinions through activities such as student council elections and volunteer projects. Mental Development: Focuses on mental development through meditation practice, reflection, and studying biographies of important figures. Wisdom: Promotes rational and analytical thinking using innovation and technology to create learning experiences. The approach to democratic development based on Buddhist principles focus on creating direct experiences through various activities such as student council elections, opinion expression, and volunteer projects (Moral Conduct); developing mind and intellect through meditation, reflection, and studying biographies of important figures (Mental Development); and using innovation and technology to create engaging learning experiences, such as digital democracy platforms and simulation technology (Wisdom).