Development of Community Learning Process by Using Research as a Base for Independent Study in Buddhism for Students of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University

Abstract

Self-directed learning processes that enable learners to construct knowledge for themselves and promote lifelong learning are essential for the development of human potential. This research was financially supported by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. This research aims to develop a community learning process using Buddhist independent study research as a base. The sample consisted of 16 students, purposively selected. The research instruments included: 1) focus group discussion notes, 2) a manual for the community learning process using a research-based approach, and 3) an evaluation form for effectiveness. Data analysis methods included data categorization, interpretation, and descriptive writing. This research was financially supported by the Office of the Permanent Secretary.
The research findings show that developing a community learning process based on the CCS concept has 7 steps: (1) organizing a problem-finding forum, (2) field surveys of problems, (3) organizing a solution-finding forum, (4) driving problem-solving initiatives, (5) extracting lessons learned,
(6) synthesizing and providing feedback to the community, and (7) research report writing. This was integrated with two research-based learning approaches: (1) the instructor uses research findings and processes for teaching, and (2) the learner uses research findings and processes for learning. This was implemented with graduate students in an independent study on developing Buddhist lifestyle activities to enhance the mental well-being of elderly people at Wat Bangluang community. Evaluations of the effectiveness of the research-based community learning process for independent studies in Buddhist studies showed that it can stimulate learners to build knowledge by themselves, and integrate and apply Buddhist knowledge to practice solving community problems.
The research contribution is in developing tools that can be used in the research-based community learning process, namely the "Tree of Noble Truths". Tree 1 (the Problem Tree) provides data collection tools to study problems, identify causes and impacts. Tree 2 (the Wisdom Tree) provides tools to brainstorm goals, solutions, resolution methods and impacts, leading to collective agreements for community problem-solving actions.