Academic Area Pathways
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599EOpanayikoAnalyze the difference between accepting teachings through belief, versus discovering truth through direct experience, then evaluate how applying a Buddhist concept in daily life—such as impermanence or compassion—can lead to personal insights. Compare direct experience with theoretical understanding of dharma teachings, and assess whether this experiential approach demonstrates the quality of opanayiko by genuinely leading toward inner clarity and transformation.
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446EPraise and BlameAnalyze the role that praise and blame play in human motivation; evaluate the role of praise and blame in your own motivations; and aspire to act with a motivation free from craving approval or fearing criticism.
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458EBuddhanatureAnalyze how the concept of buddhanature may affect one’s outlook on life; compare and contrast the principle of buddhanature with other religious or philosophical beliefs; and assess how the understanding of innate goodness transforms relationships.
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502ETanha: Sensory EnjoymentImplement mindful self-care practices that honor the body as a vehicle for awakening, and analyze how unrestrained sensory craving creates suffering.
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510EMusical AwakeningAnalyze how specific musical elements in chosen pieces convey Buddhist values, evaluating how qualities like mindfulness, compassion, courage, or insight are expressed through sound.
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521EAbhidharma: Sensory AwarenessIdentify the six sense faculties and twelve ayatanas and connect them to our experience of conditioned perception. Evaluate how habitual reactions to pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral sensations can limit our perceptions. Implement mindfulness practices utilizing awareness of sensory processes.
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415EKarma and HabitAnalyze the relationship between Buddhist teachings on karma and neuroscientific understanding of habit formation; evaluate how conscious repetition of wholesome thoughts, words, and actions creates positive neural pathways; and synthesize understanding by implementing deliberate habit-change practices that demonstrate the intersection of contemplative training and brain plasticity.
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416ERefraining from Sexual MisconductAnalyze the Buddhist understanding of sexual misconduct within the context of consent, honesty, and non-harm; evaluate how the principles of respect and mindfulness apply to intimate relationships; and synthesize understanding by examining how this precept supports both personal integrity and healthy community relationships.
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417ERefraining from stealingAnalyze the concept of “taking what is not given” beyond simple theft to include deception, exploitation, and environmental harm; evaluate the karmic relationship between stealing and loss as described in Buddhist teachings; and synthesize understanding by implementing practices of generosity (dana) that counteract acquisitive tendencies.
