RESEARCH MODELS FOR ENHANCING WISDOM AND MORALITY BASED ON THAI AND INTERNATIONAL BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) analyze the existing problems and research needs related to the enhancement of wisdom and morality through Buddhist principles at both national and international levels in the present context 2) examine the components of research contributing to the enhancement of wisdom and morality through Buddhist principles at national and international levels and 3) develop a research management system for strengthening wisdom and morality based on Buddhist principles at both national and international levels. This study employed a qualitative approach combined with action research. The research instrument was an in-depth interview form. Key informants were selected through purposive sampling and included senior administrators, administrators of Buddhist colleges graduates alumni and current students academics and experts in research and development. Focus group discussions were conducted with university administrators and distinguished scholars in Buddhist research and development. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis content analysis and participant observation among staff and students. The findings revealed that 1) addressing problems and research needs in enhancing wisdom and morality requires an integrative cross-disciplinary strategy that connects Buddhist doctrines with daily life while responding to emerging opportunities in AI trends and ethics. Research should be positioned as a leader in establishing digital ethical frameworks, formulating public sector strategies and building a distinctive institutional identity. 2) The research components consist of four dimensions 1) the philosophical and doctrinal dimension emphasizing the Threefold Training (Tri-sikkhā) as the guiding compass of research 2) the academic dimension, driven by cross-disciplinary mechanisms integrating education and social sciences 3) the human dimension focusing on the development of individuals based on the six temperaments (Carita 6) the Four Types of Lotus (Bua 4) and Yoniso Manasikāra (systematic reflection) and 4) supporting factors for success, including Buddhist principles and conducive environments that ensure research sustainability and achievement. 3) The evaluation of the developed research management system covered research administration, research systems and mechanisms research models research problems and needs dissemination acceptance and the utilization of research findings with mean scores of 4.78 4.71 4.48 4.44 and 4.36 respectively