THE CREATION OF A HANDBOOK FOR CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS LEARNING ACTIVITIES ON ATTHAMI BUCHA DAY AMONG THAI YOUTH AND BUDDHISTS AT RABORKHET TEMPLE, BANBOOSUNG SCHOOL, NADI SUBDISTRICT, NADI DISTRICT, PRACHINBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the current state and issues of cultural and religious learning activities on Atthami Bucha Day; 2) examine the problems and needs in creating a cultural and religious learning activity manual for Thai youth and Buddhists; and 3) develop a cultural and religious learning activity manual appropriate to the context of communities and educational institutions in the research area. The study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through document study, in-depth interviews, and observations, with a sample comprising youth, teachers, monks, and lay Buddhists in the areas of Raborkhet Temple and Ban Busung School in Prachinburi Province. A descriptive analysis was used to obtain comprehensive and in-depth information. The research findings indicated that most youth and lay Buddhists lacked a deep understanding of the history and Buddhist principles related to Atthami Bucha Day. Current activities were fragmented, and lacked a systematic manual that genuinely promoted the participation of youth and lay Buddhists. The target groups expressed a need of an activity manual with comprehensive content on the life of the Buddha, relevant Buddhist principles, and practical guidelines presented through a variety of creative activities such as circumambulation, Dharma talks, art media creation, and learning through modern technology. A key finding from the analysis suggested that the manual should be developed by integrating Experiential Learning Theory and Cultural Transmission Theory.
This approach would promote a deep learning, an understanding of Buddhist principles and the sustainable preservation of religious traditions. In conclusion, the developed activity manual will help educational institutions and communities organize Atthami Bucha Day activities systematically, foster religious consciousness, and strengthen cultural values among youth and the public in the long term.