Guidelines for Developing the Roles of Monks as Morality Teachers in Schools

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were 1) to study the roles of monks in propagating Buddhism; 2) to study the roles of monks as morality teachers in schools; and 3) to analyze approaches to developing the roles of monks as morality teachers in schools. The research used documentary data, including primary data, namely textbooks on the issue of propagating Buddhism, and secondary data, namely academic texts, journals, and theses on monks teaching morality. These data were then analyzed to identify approaches to developing the roles of monks teaching morality. The data were summarized in descriptive form. The research results found that 1) in terms of the roles of monks in propagating Buddhism, monks played an important role in propagating Buddhism with compassion and the application of Dharma teachings through religious teachings, religious persons, religious places, and religious ceremonies. Propagating can be carried out through sermons and lectures according to Buddhist teaching methods. Monks should have appropriate qualities, such as having deep knowledge of Dharma, having a good personality, not being disrespectful to others, being well-educated, and being able to teach clearly and logically; 2) in the aspect of the roles of monks as morality teachers in schools, monks played a crucial role in integrating Buddhist principles into social studies and religious studies instruction to promote morality, concentration, and wisdom. This was accomplished through lesson planning, student development activities, and Dhamma studies examinations. This included coordinating with subject teachers to maximize teaching effectiveness, using appropriate learning media and assessments for student development; 3) in terms of guidelines for developing the roles of monks as morality teachers in schools, the analysis indicated that the principles of Buddhist propagation can be applied to develop morality teaching in schools in six areas: (1) focusing on student benefit, (2) training and knowledge development, (3) lesson planning, (4) promoting education, (5) being a good friend, and (6) being mindful.