BUDDHIST COMMUNICATION INNOVATION THROUGH 2D ANIMATION: ON WOMEN IN THE BUDDHA'S TIME

Napassorn Kulpanat; Phra Arthit Sriparat

Authors

Napassorn Kulpanat Graduate School, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand
Phra Arthit Sriparat Graduate School, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand

Keywords:

Buddhist Communicative Innovation, 2D Animation, Women in the Buddha's Time, Metaverse

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In response to rapid societal changes driven by technological advancements and the National Education Plan (2017 - 2036), Section 65, which emphasizes human resource development in educational technology, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University recognizes the importance of historical education, particularly in the central examination course on Buddhist History. However, current curricula often lack comprehensive content regarding the history of women during the Buddha's time, who played a vital role in preserving and supporting Buddhism. This research aimed to develop a Buddhist communicative innovation titled "Women in the Buddha's Time" using 2D animation. The objectives were to study and create educational media illustrating the history and roles of women in the early Buddhist era through 2D animation and to evaluate the learning outcomes of students.

Methodology: This study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE Model to ensure systematic quality control. The population consisted of first-year students at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University during the first semester of the 2024 academic year. The sample, obtained through cluster random sampling, included 45 participants (Monks and Laypeople). The research instruments included: 1) A 2D animation innovation featuring 10 prominent women (Sujata, Visakha, Khujjuttara, Samavati, Uttara Nandamata, Suppavasa, Suppiya, Katiyani, Kalikurgarika, and Nakulamata Gahapatani) presented via the Spatial application in the Metaverse; 2) An achievement test; and 3) A media quality evaluation form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a t-test.

Main Results: The findings revealed that students' satisfaction with the Buddhist innovation was at the highest level ( $\bar{x}$ = 4.78, S.D. = 0.39). Post-test learning achievement scores were significantly higher than pre-test scores at a .05 level of significance. Furthermore, the quality of the developed 2D animation was rated as excellent ( $\bar{x}$ = 4.65, S.D. = 0.48) across content, technical aspects, and Metaverse presentation. The media also effectively conveyed the histories, roles, and virtues of these 10 women in the Buddha's time as exemplary models for society.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: The development of this innovation reflects the principle of Panna (Wisdom) by utilizing technology for the propagation of Buddhism. It aligns with the Iddhipada IV (Four Paths to Success) in achieving quality media production. Moreover, it showcases the invaluable roles and virtues of women in Buddhism as role models for living according to Dhamma.

Conclusions: The development of "Women in the Buddha's Time" 2D animation via the Metaverse effectively enhances students' access to learning resources. This educational innovation aligns with the Society 4.0 era, offering a new and engaging approach to Buddhist studies that is accessible anywhere and anytime, ultimately improving learners' understanding of the history, virtues, and Dhamma principles of women in the Buddha's time.

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