Buddhist Philosophy and Education for Building Online Social Immunity for Elementary School Children in the Digital Age: A Blended Learning Approach

Abstract

This academic article has three objectives: firstly, to analyze and synthesize Buddhist philosophical principles that can be applied as instruments for building online social immunity among elementary school children; secondly, to propose a blended learning model that integrates Buddhist philosophy with contemporary educational technology; and thirdly, to suggest learning activity designs that cultivate critical thinking skills, media literacy, and ethical social interactions grounded in moral values. The study analyzes three key Buddhist philosophical principles, namely the Threefold Training (Trisikkha), Spiritual Friendship (Kalyanamitta), and Systematic Reflection (Yonisomanasikara), for application in designing blended online and offline learning. The analysis reveals that these three Buddhist principles can be systematically integrated into instructional models in the digital age. Specifically, the Threefold Training develops ethical behavior, concentration, and wisdom in technology use; Spiritual Friendship builds quality relationships among teachers, students, and parents; and Systematic Reflection strengthens critical thinking skills and media literacy. Accordingly, this article proposes the Buddhist-Integrated Blended Learning Model, which comprises four components: balanced learning spaces, Trisikkha-integrated learning processes, Kalyanamitta learning communities, and holistic developmental assessment. Furthermore, the proposed framework requires consideration of four key factors: children’s age-appropriate development, active participation from teachers and parents, integration of virtual and real-world experiences, and the creation of a learning environment that promotes intellectual growth