EVALUATION OF ACHIEVEMENTS FROM PRACTICING DHAMMA-NAVA “WANG” AMONG THE THAI SANGHA AND THAI PEOPLE

Abstract

This research aimed to 1. evaluate the achievements resulting from the practice of the Dhamma-Nava “Wang” principles among the Thai Sangha and people, and 2. propose policy recommendations for enhancing the achievements derived from such practices. A mixed methods research design was employed, integrating documentary research, quantitative research, and qualitative research. The quantitative sample consisted of 5,711 monks and 7,834 Thai people from 37 provinces nationwide, selected through cluster sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires
and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The qualitative data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 148 key informants and analyzed through content analysis.

The findings revealed that 1. the overall achievement level of practicing the Dhamma-Nava “Wang” principles among the Thai Sangha was at a high level, while the Thai people also demonstrated a high level of achievement. Notable outcomes included strong faith in the Triple Gem, intention to apply Buddhist principles in daily life, mindfulness, wisdom, and mental calmness. Qualitative findings further indicated that the practice of the Dhamma-Nava “Wang” principles helped reduce stress, enhance moral and ethical development, foster positive attitudes and behaviors, and promote harmonious relationships within families, communities, and society, and 2. Policy recommendations emphasize the continuous expansion of training programs, the development of curricula tailored to diverse target groups, and the integration of the Dhamma-Nava “Wang” principles into educational institutions and digital media to achieve sustainable outcomes at the national level.