Course Purpose
Dear Students,
Welcome to the journey of exploring Buddhist philosophy, a course designed to deepen your understanding of complex existential questions. This course aims to develop your critical thinking skills, enable you to see the interconnectedness of life, and encourage ethical reflection. Understanding concepts like kilesa vatta (the cycle of defilements) and vipāka vatta (the cycle of results) will not only provide insights into personal well-being but also shape your perception of society. As your teacher, I believe that grappling with these ideas is essential for cultivating empathy and wisdom in our increasingly complex world.
Course Overview
Course Title: Exploring Buddhist Philosophy: Understanding the Cycle of Existence
Grade Level: Upperclass (Students Grade 11-12)
Topics Covered: Kilesa Vatta, Kamma Vatta, Vipāka Vatta, Four Noble Truths, Dependent Origination
Course Duration: Full semester
This course challenges you to engage deeply with philosophical questions and encourages you to reflect on your beliefs and values. You will become capable of analyzing complex ideas and applying them to everyday life.
Learning Goals
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
Analyze the concepts of kilesa, kamma, and vipāka in depth.
Apply Buddhist philosophy to personal and societal challenges.
Engage in evidence-based discussions about ethical dilemmas.
Reflect critically on your own beliefs and experiences.
Structure & Routine
Our weekly routine will include:
Socratic seminars to explore philosophical questions deeply.
Project-based investigations on real-life applications of Buddhist concepts.
Journaling for personal reflection and inquiry.
Regular feedback sessions to cultivate collaborative learning.
Assessments for Understanding
Learning will be assessed through:
Demonstrations of understanding via projects and presentations.
Process reflections to encourage self-assessment.
Peer/teacher conferencing to foster dialogue.
Portfolios that compile your learning artifacts.
Expectations & Community Norms
In our classroom, we will cultivate:
Mutual respect and curiosity.
Academic honesty and a culture of contribution.
A fair approach to accountability regarding attendance and deadlines. If you're struggling, please reach out for support.
Final Note
I encourage you to bring your full selves to this exploration. Learning is a shared journey, and I believe in your growth and potential. Together, we will navigate these profound ideas and their impact on our lives.
