A MODEL FOR DEVELOPING THE POTENTIAL OF MONKS AS MISSIONARIES IN MODERN SOCIETY IN SATTAHIP DISTRICT, CHONBURI

Abstract

This article aimed to 1) study the potential of monks as missionaries in modern society in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, 2) to develop the potential of monks as missionaries in modern society in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, and 3) to present a model for developing the potential of monks as missionaries in modern society in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, using participatory action research methodology. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, training, and lessons learned from 18 monks/persons. Content analysis was conducted with contextualization using the technique of triangulation. The research results indicated the following: 1) The potential of monks as missionaries in modern society is to promote faith and morality that competes with the digital age that uses online platforms, thereby causing the dissemination of the Dharma in the digital age to be challenging due to distorted information. In contrast, Dharma principles will facilitate the mindful use of technology and the presentation of correct information. 2) Monks as missionaries in Sattahip have developed skills in the use of Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to disseminate the Dharma by linking Dharma principles with society to reach the new generations and creating easy-to-understand and interesting communication that addresses social issues, promotes unity, and develops the locality through moral activities and applying the concept of loving-kindness to create sustainability. 3) The model for developing the potential of monks as missionaries in Sattahip used an Upskill model to build on the past in order to learn and practice skills in using technology and online media, a Reskill model to adjust to the present and enhance people’s skills in applying the Dharma to their daily lives, and a New Skill model to create new value in the future by using AI and data analysis to create interactive content and multimedia.