Teaching And Learning Model of Meditation Teachers Based on the Willpower Institute’s Approach

Abstract

This article research aims to 1) study meditation teaching in Thailand; 2) analyze meditation teacher education according to the Willpower Institute; and 3) propose a meditation teacher education model according to the Willpower Institute.

This qualitative research study found that:

1. There are five major meditation teaching approaches in Thailand: Buddha Meditation, Anapanasati Meditation, Pung-Yuap Meditation, Luang Por Thian Meditation, and Dhammakaya Meditation.
2. The curriculum's strengths lie in its systematic approach, with easy-to-understand course content and practices. This allows students to gain access to meditation and experience the joy of practice, fostering determination and diligence. A challenge is the meditation teacher course's six-month duration, which is too long, especially for those still working. Some students miss classes and are ineligible to take the exam.
3. The meditation teacher education model according to the Willpower Institute, Branch 154, Wat Pa Dara Phirom, Chiang Mai Province, and Branch 283, Wat Pa Achan Man Phurithatto, Chiang Mai Province, consists of a (short-term) Chinnasasa Meditation course, with volunteer instructors and students having faith in the curriculum. The teaching process uses a manual, namely the 3 volumes of the meditation teacher course book and then plays a tape of a lecture by His Holiness Somdej Phra Yanawachirodom (Luang Por Wiriyang Sirintharo), consisting of both theory and practice. There is systematic teaching. The practice format emphasizes 2 postures: walking meditation and sitting meditation. Evaluation and assessment include theoretical and practical field exams at Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai Province, for 4 days and 3 nights before completing the course.