Guidelines for the Development of Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy Programs in Buddhist Studies and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were 1) to study the problems and factors affecting the teaching management of lecturers in the Buddhist Studies and Philosophy program at Mahamakut Buddhist University; and 2) to propose guidelines for curriculum development in the Buddhist Studies and Philosophy program at Mahamakut Buddhist University. This was a mixed-methods research combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. The sample group consisted of 80 persons including students, employers of graduates, curriculum coordinators, curriculum lecturers, and campus administrators. The research instruments used were questionnaires and interviews. Statistical analyses included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis, and descriptive analysis. The research findings revealed that 1) the overall problems and factors affecting teaching by lecturers in the program were at a high level, and in individual aspects, the aspect with the highest opinion was intellectual skills, followed by knowledge. The aspect with the lowest opinion was interpersonal skills and responsibility; 2) the guidelines for curriculum development included making the curriculum flexible to suit learners, integrating online systems, developing critical thinking, establishing academic collaboration with other universities in the country to facilitate joint learning, conducting research and development, creating innovations that responded to national strategies, and increasing curriculum publicity by emphasizing its attractive educational strengths to reach those interested in pursuing further studies.