The Development of An Appropriate Management Model for Vipassana Meditation Centers Suitable for Practitioners in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This article aimed 1) to study the current state of management at Vipassana meditation centers that aligns with the needs of practitioners in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province. 2) to develop a suitable management model for such centers based on those needs and 3) to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the developed model. This qualitative research employed documents and interviews with 26 monks/individuals as the basis for model development, conducted focus group discussions with 7 experts to evaluate the model, and assessed its implementation with 30 participants using descriptive methods.

The findings of the research were as follows. 1) The current management approaches at Wat Srichan, Wat Pho, and Wat Srinuan varied according to each center’s style. However, there were several challenges: lack of systematic personnel management, difficulty in recruiting staff, unsuitable physical environments, limited financial support, and low effectiveness in helping practitioners apply the teachings in daily life. It was suggested that the model should be simplified, clearly structured, appropriate for all levels of practitioners, and include a follow-up system. 2) The developed management model involved appointing personnel according to their skills, seeking external funding support, adjusting the environment to be quiet and conducive to practice, clearly displaying Dhamma teachings, and designing comfortable spaces for walking, standing, and sitting meditation. The model emphasized simplicity, structure, discipline, and focusing on the essence of Dhamma practice. 3) Implementation and evaluation of the model were conducted through a 10-day meditation retreat. The staff found the new model easier to implement compared to previous practices. Participants reported that they could better apply what they learned to their daily lives.