Appreciation and Joy

• 216EBuddhist Architecture

  Categorize the three main types of Buddhist architecture (stupas, monasteries, temples) according to their functions; analyze how architectural elements support dharma practice and community building; and evaluate the symbolic meaning embedded in specific design features across different Buddhist cultural traditions.
• 217EBuddhist Iconography

  Analyze Buddhist iconography and symbolism, and differentiate the characteristic visual elements associated with different Buddhist traditions.
• 209EClassic Buddhist Stories and Parables

  Analyze Buddhist stories and parables to extract wisdom for daily living, and differentiate between the forms and functions of history, story, myth, and legend.
• 501EConfidence in the Buddha and Many Possibilities

  Analyze the Buddhist concept of saddha by tracing the three traditional steps of developing confidence (admiration, aspiration, realization), then evaluate how humble confidence differs from self-centered pride, and implement creative practices that demonstrate patient optimism while maintaining awareness of innate goodness despite setbacks.
• 503EContemplative Arts

  Compare and contrast contemplative arts traditions (ikebana, chado or tea ceremony, calligraphy, kyudo, charya dance) as forms of meditative practice; analyze how specific arts integrate mindfulness, precision, and aesthetic awareness; and evaluate personal experience by engaging in contemplative arts practice while documenting insights about the relationship between creative process and spiritual development.
• 503AContemplative Arts

  Explore different art materials through the five senses by touching, smelling, and observing colors and textures; create simple artworks while paying attention to how materials feel in their hands; and practice “mindful making” by moving slowly and noticing what happens when they press hard or soft, use different tools, or mix colors together.
• 503DContemplative Arts

  Cultivate beginner’s mind through contemplative art practices by approaching familiar materials with fresh curiosity, questioning assumptions about artistic ability, and practicing openness to unexpected creative discoveries; engage in sustained contemplative art projects that develop patience, concentration, and acceptance of the creative process; and examine how contemplative art practice affects their relationship with perfectionism, self-judgment, and creative confidence.
• 503CContemplative Arts

  Practice creating art without attachment to specific outcomes by starting projects with open curiosity rather than fixed plans, experimenting with letting go of “perfect” results, and discovering how releasing expectations can lead to surprising discoveries; engage in contemplative art practices that develop present-moment awareness such as mindful drawing, meditative clay work, or focused color mixing; and reflect on how the creative process changes their relationship with patience, frustration, and acceptance.
• 503BContemplative Arts

  Practice mindful art-making by focusing completely on one activity at a time, noticing when their mind wanders and gently returning attention to their hands and materials; experiment with “mistake magic” by turning unexpected marks, spills, or broken pieces into new creative discoveries; and experience the difference between rushing through art projects and taking time to enjoy each step of the process.