The Development of Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Virtue Indicators according to Buddhist-Based Principles
Thammasat Review June 26, 2026 Ven. Phra Medhivajarapundit (Hansa Dhammahaso), Ven. Phramaha Nantakorn Piyabhani, Ven. Phramaha Weerasak Abhinandavedi et al.
A mixed-method study developed 39 indicators for mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue based on Buddhist principles and modern science. Qualitative data came from documentary analysis, interviews with 7 key informants, and a focus group of 8 education specialists; quantitative data came from 375 Buddhist university students. Mindfulness (sati) helped people stay present and emotionally balanced, wisdom (paññā) improved problem-solving and adaptability, and virtue (sīla or guṇa-dhamma) encouraged ethical behavior and responsibility. The indicators align with the Threefold Training (tisikkha) and have thirteen sub-components. Students strongly agreed on the importance of these qualities, and experts emphasized measuring them through real-life actions rather than self-reports.