VOLUNTEER PLUS: THAI BUDDHISM (SOCIAL) 2017

The practicum entails that the participant will be provided with academic literature and theories related to the subject of the program (Thai Buddhism). This study ‘package' is required to be studied pre­departure. The participant will develop their knowledge/vision related to the specialized field of study by fulfilling assignments/questions based on the studied theories and literature before entering the program. With this theoretical ‘baggage'; the participant will participate in the local one week program/practicum and assess their previous findings (answers on the pre­departure questions) against the local situation of the subject of study. During this one week program the participant will be participating in the program activities/assignments among both Volunteer Plus and regular participants. While participating, the participant has to further assess/study the local situation of the subject guided by the Volunteer Plus curriculum. Through this assessment, the participant will further develop his/her own vision based on the onsite evaluation of the local situation and pre­departure knowledge. The participant will be testing the predescribed academical theories by observing and actively participating in the local ‘practical' situation. Lastly, the participant will review their pre­departure theoretical assessment against their practical onsite findings by fulfilling the final assignments/questions of the Volunteer Plus curriculum. The participants are more than welcome to discuss their findings, views, opinions and ideas throughout this week among each other. Furthermore, the knowledgeable and specialized program coordinator of the Volunteer Plus programs always have a well established practical background in the allocated field of study. This specialised coordinator will further guide the participants through the practicum, is always available to answer questions and/ will provide a better understanding of the local (cultural) context towards the participants. After fulfilling the program and its curriculum by handing in the related assignments adequately, the assignments are appraised by the supervisor (MA) of the educational practicum division, the participant will be awarded with the Educational Practicum certificate within the assigned field of study. Buddhism began in Northern India around the year 500 BCE. The Buddhist tradition gets its name from a man known by his followers as the Buddha, or the awakened one. He was born into a princely family in a region of Northern India that now lives in Southern Nepal. During this week you will learn the teachings of Buddhism in Thailand, first hand from a monk and stay within the temple grounds, learning techniques for meditation and chanting. This program allows you to learn about and experience the practice of Thai Buddhism. During this week you will have the chance to practice meditation and chanting with local monks in a quiet and spiritual environment. You will be given an introduction to Thai Buddhism by means of a short documentary and you will also have the opportunity to visit a monastery and to ask questions to a highly respected monk. You will have the chance to stay in an authentic Thai temple and experience this way of life first hand. Meditation will of course play a major role in your week.