Abstract:
The study consisted of the following five objectives: 1) to study and analyze the current issues in organizing moral camps for youth in Sisaket Province based on Buddhist peaceful means; 2) to examine the context of organizing moral camps for youth in Sisaket Province; 3) to explore concepts and theories related to organizing moral camps for the younger generation based on Buddhist peaceful means; 4) to analyze practical guidelines for organizing moral camps for the younger generation based on Buddhist peaceful means; and 5) to propose appropriate and improved guidelines for organizing moral camps for the younger generation in Sisaket Province through Buddhist peaceful means. The study employed a qualitative research method, including documentary research and fieldwork through in-depth interviews. Key informants include: 1) experts in organizing moral camps; 2) learning process designers for moral training camps, 3) government schoolteachers in Sisaket Province; and 4) younger generation representatives in Sisaket Province, totaling 20 monks and laypersons.
The research findings revealed that :
1) The organization of moral camps for the younger generation in Sisaket Province is confronted with multiple problems. These include a lack of communication skills, a lack of ideological commitment, and inadequate coordination among monk instructors. The camp content is often outdated and fails to reflect the current context, while the activities lack engagement and creativity. Furthermore, the programs generally lack systematic planning and clear evaluation frameworks. Youth participants frequently exhibit low motivation, influenced by the appeal of social media and consumerist values, and increasingly perceive religion as disconnected from their personal lives. The rapid changes in the digital age has further diminished the relevance and effectiveness of traditional camp models in meaningfully engaging the younger generation.
2) The contextual study of the younger generation in Sisaket Province regarding moral camp organization reveals that moral teaching monks play a highly significant role. A key aspect highlighted is their function as moral exemplars; while the majority of monks demonstrate appropriate conduct, a few exhibit behaviors inconsistent with their religious roles. In terms of instruction, although they possess Dhamma knowledge, they often lack effective pedagogical techniques suitable for engaging younger generation. Moral guidance is typically reactive, occurring after problems arise, indicating the need for a shift toward proactive prevention strategies. Furthermore, the moral cultivation process suffers from insufficient collaboration with teachers and parents. Additionally, there is a lack of systematic volunteer-based activities to foster social responsibility and public-mindedness among the younger generation.
3) The conceptual and theoretical framework for organizing moral camps for the younger generation based on Buddhist peaceful means encompasses several key components. These include training theories that emphasize the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes through participatory learning; modern educational perspectives that promote responsibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing world; and active learning approaches that engage learners through hands-on activities and critical thinking. The design of camp activities is tailored to the learning preferences of Generation Z, who prefer speed and challenges. Additionally, Blooms Revised Taxonomy is employed to encourage higher-order thinking, and instructors play a vital role in conveying both knowledge and moral values grounded in Buddhist peaceful principles.
4) The proposed guidelines for organizing moral camps in Sisaket Province through Buddhist peaceful means, titled the Organizing Moral Camps for the Younger by Buddhist Peaceful Means, aims to cultivate the development of younger generation through the Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca) and the Threefold Training (sīla, samādhi, paññā). The model consists of three core components (instructors, knowledge, and skills) and four supplementary elements. These elements emphasize experiential learning, active participation, and real-life contextual relevance. The training follows a structured sequence: initial, intermediate, and final phases, to foster sustainable behavioral and attitudinal transformation. The moral camp is categorized into four dimensions: physical, behavioral, emotional, and intellectual, aiming to holistically develop body, behavior, mind, and wisdom. Dhamma principles are integrated to guide learners toward peaceful living within themselves, their families, and society.