Constructing the Meditation Course of EEC

Abstract

This research aimed to construct a meditation course of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and test its effectiveness. It employed a qualitative research study using a research and development method. The target group consisted of 8 curriculum development experts, 13 stakeholders providing feedback on the course, 3 experts who evaluated the course, 20 participats who tested its effectiveness, and 6 meditation teachers. Data was collected through participatory observation, pre- and post-assessments, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics.
The research results found that:
1. The constructed course aim to learn and practice meditation leading to attain the first absorption and application for life and works. It lasts for 10 days composing of the theoritical sesion for 22.30 hours, the practical: main, major, and minor sessions for 77, 32 and 31 hours respectively; and orientation and closing sessions for 8 hours. It has a congruence value level of 0.93 out of 1 and an appropriateness value level of 4.73 out of 5. 
2. Course efficiency after three time tests and improvments is as follows: 1. The results of the evaluation before and after participating in the research project, the overall effectiveness of the course increased from a low level to the highest level in all 3 areas: 1) knowledge and understanding of the concepts and principles 2) ability to practice the meditation until the mind is concentrated at the level of first absorption 3) how to apply the meditation to life and work. 2. Satisfaction of the research project participants, overall, was at the highest level with 81.05 percent. The items with the highest level of satisfaction were the knowledge session with 95 percent, followed by 4 items, namely the meditation teacher, the activity facilitator, the main practice session and facilitation with 90 percent.