Management model of Buddhist temple charity school with Buddhist innovations

รูปแบบการบริหารจัดการโรงเรียนการกุศลของวัดในพระพุทธศาสนาด้วยนวัตกรรมวิถีพุทธ

Abstract

This research aims to: 1. Study the administration of Buddhist temple charity schools 2. Analyze the administration of Buddhist temple charity schools using Buddhist innovative approaches 3. Propose a management model for Buddhist temple charity schools based on Buddhist innovation. This is a qualitative research study conducted through document analysis, content analysis, and in-depth interviews with 18 key informants, including school administrators of Thammasathit Suksa School, school board members, parents, current students, alumni, and education experts and stakeholders. Data were analyzed through content analysis and focus group discussions, and the findings were synthesized into a body of knowledge.

Research Findings

1. The administration of Buddhist temple charity schools operates under the Private Schools Act and follows a clear management structure comprising the licensee, school manager, principal, school board, and teachers. These schools emphasize good governance and Buddhist principles, aiming to integrate Dhamma into effective teaching and learning. Despite facing challenges such as teacher shortages, limited budgets, and declining student numbers due to competition with public schools, and reliance on insufficient donations and subsidies, the schools should emphasize transparency, stakeholder participation, and holistic student development.

2. The administration based on Buddhist innovation aims to develop students both academically and spiritually. The model incorporates five core Buddhist principles: 1) Academic administration based on Sappurisa-dhamma, focusing on thorough data analysis. 2) Personnel management in line with Sangahavatthu-dhamma, emphasizing both academic and moral development of students. 3) Financial management grounded in integrity, transparency, and collaboration. 4) General administration aligned with the Four Noble Truths, ensuring systematic planning. 5) Integration of Buddhist principles with modern management for sustainable education.

3. The proposed model for managing temple charity schools through Buddhist innovation focuses on integrating Dhamma with contemporary administration to promote students' academic performance, morality, and life skills. The BISLM model includes Buddhist-informed academic management, innovative personnel development, transparent and sufficient budgeting, and a holistic environment. Key strategies include the Baworn (temple-school-community) collaboration, Buddhist-oriented teacher development, self-assessment using the 3Rs (Reflection, Responsibility, Reform), and image communication. The model envisions well-rounded students, sustainable schools led by moral leaders, adaptive staff, and active community engagement.