A Study on Cultivating Values of Respect, Harmony and Wisdom for Children and Adolescents through the Esan Folktales

Abstract

A study on cultivating values of respect, harmony and wisdom for children and adolescents through the Esan folktales aimed at studying the process of cultivating the values by using folktales for analyzing connotation of Dhamma principles and morality hidden in the four Esan folktales that were published in booklets for cultivating ethical values among children and youth. The research found that:              

1. The overall feedback of knowledge and understanding of students and local sages on the process of cultivating morality and ethics for children and adolescents by using folktales was at the highest level in: the provision of booklets on folktales for community libraries; and the participation of students in folktales reading and telling activities organized in the communities.


2. The feedback of knowledge and understanding of students and local sages on the connotation of Dhamma principles and morality hidden in the four Esan folktales are as the followings:   

            2.1 Payakaphueag is a story with the connotation of respect, gratitude and making a determined wish for enlightenment of the 5 eras of Buddha.

            2.2 Nokkrachab without Unity is a story with the connotation of harmony that leads to happiness and peace for all while disharmony and arrogance leads to ruins.

            2.3 Suwanna-samkumara is a story with the connotation of respect and gratitude towards parents and benefactors and holding truth over one’s life that leads to prosperity and happiness.

            2.4 Panhaseawsawad is a story with connotation of philosophy, teachings and morality hidden in Dhamma questions that can be applied in teaching morality for children, adolescents and general public.