THE APPLICATION OF IDDHIPĀDA 4 IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION OF THE MONASTIC SCHOOL AT WAT SOK PA LUANG IN VIENTIANE CAPITAL

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) investigate the principles of the Four Bases of Success Iddhipāda IV in Theravāda Buddhism; 2) examine the current conditions of educational administration at Sok Pa Luang Monastic School in Vientiane Capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic; and 3) propose guidelines for the application of the Four Bases of Success Iddhipāda IV in the administration of Sok Pa Luang Monastic School in Vientiane Capital. This study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data were collected from 30 key informants through purposive sampling. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis, and the results were presented in a descriptive and analytical format.

The findings of the study revealed that:

1) The findings revealed that the Four Bases of Success—chanda (aspiration), viriya (effort), citta (concentration), and vīmaṃsā (investigation)—constitute a systematic process for achieving success. This process begins with intrinsic motivation, leading to sustained effort, focused attention, and reflective evaluation for continuous improvement. These principles can be effectively applied within the context of educational administration, promoting both efficiency and sustainability.

2) Regarding the current state of administration, the study found that the management of Sok Pa Luang Monastic School is primarily structured around the hierarchical system of the Sangha, with centralized decision-making. While this allows for efficient operations aligned with monastic discipline, it lacks systematic development in areas such as planning, technology integration, and personnel development. Additionally, limitations in resources and participatory management affect the overall quality of educational management.

3) In terms of application, the Four Bases of Success can be integrated across all administrative domains. Chanda fosters motivation and organizational commitment; viriya enhances perseverance in continuous development; citta improves work quality through attentiveness; and vīmaṃsā supports systematic evaluation and improvement. The integration of these principles contributes to effective, transparent administration and strengthens organizational sustainability.