The Application of Yonisomanasikāra Dhamma Principles in Enhancing Analytical Thinking Competency: A Mixed-Methods Research and Development Study among Students at Chaiyaphum Sangha College, Northeast Thailand
Keywords:
Yonisomanasikāra, analytical thinking, Buddhist education, research and development, Northeast Thailand, pedagogical innovationAbstract
Background: The integration of Buddhist principles in modern education has gained increasing attention as educational institutions seek innovative approaches to enhance cognitive competencies. Yonisomanasikāra, meaning "systematic attention" or "reasoned attention," represents a fundamental Buddhist cognitive principle that emphasizes methodical thinking and deep understanding of phenomena through cause-and-effect analysis.
Purpose: This research and development study investigates the effectiveness of implementing Yonisomanasikāra Dhamma principles in enhancing analytical thinking competency among students at Chaiyaphum Sangha College in Northeast Thailand. The study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate learning management strategies based on these principles.
Methods: A mixed-methods research and development approach was employed, involving 380 undergraduate students selected through stratified random sampling and 25 faculty members chosen through purposive sampling. Data collection utilized pre-test and post-test assessments, questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and classroom observations. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis.
Results: The implementation of Yonisomanasikāra principles significantly enhanced students' analytical thinking competency, with mean scores increasing from 2.45 (SD = 0.62) to 4.12 (SD = 0.48) on a 5-point scale (t = -42.87, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 3.12). Problem-based learning activities incorporating these principles showed the highest effectiveness (η² = 0.74), followed by reflective discussions (η² = 0.68) and critical questioning techniques (η² = 0.61). Qualitative findings revealed improved student engagement, deeper analytical reasoning, and enhanced metacognitive awareness.
Conclusions: Yonisomanasikāra Dhamma principles provide an effective framework for developing analytical thinking competencies when systematically integrated into curriculum design and pedagogical practices. The research and development model successfully bridges traditional Buddhist wisdom with contemporary educational methodologies, offering valuable insights for educational innovation in culturally diverse contexts.
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