ENHANCING TEACHERS’ LEARNING MANAGEMENT COMPETENCY FOR 21ST CENTURY LEARNER DEVELOPMENT BASED ON VUḌḌHI-DHAMMA

Abstract

This academic article aims to present the enhancement of teachers’ learning management competency for developing 21st-century learners based on the four Vuḍḍhi-dhamma principles. Due to rapid changes in the modern world, educational management must shift from merely transmitting content knowledge to developing essential life skills. To successfully elevate educational quality, it is essential to develop six areas of teachers’ competencies: learning management; learner development; classroom management; analysis, synthesis, and research for learner development; teacher leadership; and building relationships and collaboration with the community. This development ensures that teachers can effectively organize active learning activities that respond to learners’ 21st-century skills (the 3Rs and 8Cs). Integrating the four Vuḍḍhi-dhamma principles comprising Sappurisasamseva, Saddhammassavana, Yonisomanasikara, and Dhammanudhammapatipatti as a foundation for competency enhancement enables teachers to establish a process of seeking knowledge from good friends (Kalyanamitta). Furthermore, it fosters attentive listening and critical filtering of information, logical and analytical reflection, and the ability to apply knowledge to instructional practices that align with learners’ contexts and real-life situations. The enhancement of teachers’ learning management competency encompasses building professional networks, accessing new knowledge, engaging in reflection and innovation development, and demonstrating excellent teaching practices. Ultimately, this approach cultivates the intellectual and ethical stability of Thai teachers, directly contributing to the sustainable development of learners who possess desirable characteristics and are well-prepared to face future challenges.