The Four Iddhipadas and Motivation Enhancement in Buddhist Monastic Schools

Abstract

The Four Iddhipada or the Four Foundations of Success consist of: 1. Chanda (aspiration/desire), 2. Viriya (effort), 3. Citta (mental application), and 4. Vimamsa (investigation/analysis). These principles, as taught by the Buddha, serve as essential tools for achieving goals. These teachings hold particular significance for developing motivation in teaching and learning within Phra Pariyattidhamma Schools, which are educational institutions focused on producing religious personnel and developing wisdom through Buddhist teachings. The application of the Four Iddhipada in enhancing motivation among teachers and students helps foster the desire to learn, perseverance in practice, dedication to study, and prudence in decision-making. This article analyzes approaches to implementing the Four Iddhipada within the context of Phra Pariyattidhamma Schools, emphasizing the creation of sustainable intrinsic motivation, the development of learning skills, and the establishment of conducive learning environments. The study findings indicate that systematic implementation of the Four Iddhipada principles results in positive changes in motivation among both teachers and students, leading to enhanced teaching and learning effectiveness and holistic development of learners according to Buddhist principles.