GUIDELINES FOR APPLYING THE THREEFOLD TRAINING TRISIKKHĀ TO DEVELOP MORAL AND ETHICAL VALUES AMONG LOWER SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS OF KUT BONG PHITTHAYAKHARN SCHOOL, KUT BONG SUBDISTRICT, PHON PHISAI DISTRICT, NONG KHAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aimed to: 1) study the principle of the Threefold Training (Tri-sikkhā) as presented in Buddhist scriptures; 2) investigate the current conditions of moral and ethical development among lower secondary school students at Kud Bong Pittayakarn School, Kud Bong Subdistrict, Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province; and 3) propose guidelines for applying the Threefold Training to enhance the moral and ethical development of lower secondary school students at Kud Bong Pittayakarn School. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a structured interview guide as the primary research instrument. The key informants consisted of 34 participants, including administrators, teachers, community leaders, and individuals involved in student development. The collected data were analyzed in accordance with qualitative research procedures and presented through descriptive analysis.

The findings revealed that:

1) The findings revealed that the Threefold Training—namely morality (Sīla), concentration (Samādhi), and wisdom (Paññā) serves as a systematic framework for human development. Morality regulates behavior, concentration develops mental stability, and wisdom enhances rational thinking. These principles can be effectively applied to promote students’ moral development and appropriate conduct in daily life.

2) Regarding the current conditions, the study found that the school has continuously implemented moral development through instructional processes and student development activities. Most students demonstrate good discipline and fundamental moral values; however, certain behaviors still require improvement. There is a need to strengthen the development process to ensure greater systematic implementation and continuity.

3) In terms of development guidelines, the application of the Threefold Training can holistically enhance students’ behavioral, mental, and cognitive development. This includes promoting discipline through moral activities, cultivating mental awareness through meditation practices, and strengthening analytical thinking skills. Such development should be supported through collaboration among the school, families, and the community to ensure sustainability.