The Development of Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Virtue Indicators according to Buddhist-Based Principles

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.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In a world shaped by rapid scientific and technological advancements, cultivating mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue is essential for navigating societal changes effectively. T his study utilized a mixed-method research design, with 3 objectives, namely: 1. to collect, analyze, and synthesize the knowledge on mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue according to Buddhist Principles and Modern Science, 2. to develop mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue indicators according to Buddhist-based principles, and 3. to evaluate the quality of mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue indicators according to Buddhist-based principles. The qualitative design included a documentary study, in-depth interviews with 7 key informants, and a focus group discussion with 8 education specialists. The quantitative component surveyed 375 Buddhist students from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU) and Mahamakut Buddhist University (MBU). The 5 Content Validity Index (CVI) and Item Objective Congruence (IOC) experts examined interview forms and questionnaires. Data analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics to ensure accuracy and reliability. The findings highlighted that 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. A total of 39 key indicators were developed under three main components: mindfulness, wisdom, and virtue rooted in the Threefold Training (tisikkha), with thirteen sub-components, aligning with Buddhist teachings and modern science. The students strongly agreed on the importance of these qualities in daily life. Experts emphasized that measuring these traits should focus on real-life actions rather than self-reported opinions.