Ti-Ratana Institute of Buddhist Studies
Certificate of Buddhist Studies

Buddhism and the World

MD001 · 12 teaching weeks · English course information

Intake not yet announced. The syllabus below is indicative.

About this course

This course develops students' knowledge and understanding of the relationship between Buddhism and the contemporary world. Students explore how Buddhist thought, ethics, communities and practices interact with areas such as science, technology, religion, culture, art, business and society.

Entry requirements

Prerequisites Students must have completed: * MT001 or YT1000 * KR001 * KR002 Enrolment Rule Students must be enrolled in the Certificate of Buddhist Studies programme.

Learning outcomes

  1. Understand and explain the relationship between Buddhism and the contemporary world.
  2. Apply Buddhist teachings when examining areas including science, technology, visual arts, performing arts and the social sciences.
  3. Critically examine contemporary questions and issues relating to Buddhism.
  4. Communicate informed responses when discussing Buddhism with others.

Indicative syllabus

No intake dates or deadlines have been set from this weekly outline.

  1. Week 1: Buddhism in the Contemporary World
  2. Week 2: Buddhist Music and Performance
  3. Week 3: Buddhist Architecture and Art
  4. Week 4: Buddhism and Other Religions
  5. Week 5: Buddhist Cults, Misrepresentation and How to Evaluate Claims
  6. Week 6: Buddhism and Minority Communities
  7. Week 7: History of Buddhism in Malaysia
  8. Week 8: Buddhism and Science
  9. Week 9: Buddhist Businesses and Ethical Enterprise
  10. Week 10: Buddhism and Technology
  11. Week 11: Field Trip / Visit to a Buddhist Temple or Community
  12. Week 12: Revision and ReflectionFestival preparation or participation may be incorporated into selected classes where appropriate.

Assessment & attendance

At least 17 of 30 attendance marks. Approximate session equivalents are guidance, not a substitute for the marks policy.

ComponentWeight
Quizzes20%
Activities20%
Attendance30%
Final assessment30%
Read the source assessment arrangements
Assessment Total: 100% Quizzes — 20% Indicative topic areas: * Buddhism and Minority Communities — 5% * Buddhist Cults and Evaluating Religious Claims — 5% * Buddhism, Science and Technology — 5% * Buddhism and the Arts — 5% Quizzes are normally conducted online or on-site using a digital device with internet access. Unless otherwise announced, quizzes are open-book. Activities — 20% Activities may include: * Buddhist arts and craft — 5% * Field-trip observation or reflection notes — 5% * Wesak Day or Wesak Eve participation — 10% Attendance — 30% Full attendance is required to receive full attendance marks. Students must obtain at least 17 out of 30 attendance marks, corresponding approximately to attendance at 7 of the 12 scheduled sessions. Late, excused and other attendance classifications may receive reduced marks according to Institute policy. Final Assessment — 30% The final assessment may cover all topics taught during the course. Method: Online or on-site using a digital device with internet access. Unless otherwise announced, the assessment is open-book.

Final assessment and certification arrangements follow the rules confirmed for your intake.