This panel featured Psychology Prof. Lin Wenying, current Dean of Academic Affairs at FGU, and Prof. Zeng Zhimian of Buddhist Studies. They shared their experiences, often from the classroom, of how to induce student motivation for self-initiated learning.
Prof. Lin believes education should offer opportunities, support, and guidance for individual students, but educators must also clearly delineate students' responsibilities and hold them to high expectations. Both responsiblities and expectations can be incrementally increased as self-confidence is developed.
Prof. Zeng explained the Buddhist notion of cultivating aspirational Bodhicitta and how aspirational Bodhicitta can be directed towards learning. If everyone latently has limitless potential in accord with Tathāgatagarbha doctrine, then aspirational Bodhicitta is the wish and the first step to unlocking and manifesting that potential within ourselves, which is simply dormant at the present.
In conclusion, everyone agreed that ultimately, learning is a self-initiated endeavor.
(Report/Shi Zhide Photos/Shi Chengjia) 2021.03.23
Psychology Prof. Lin Wenying, Dean of Academic Affairs of FGU.
Prof. Zeng Zhimian of Buddhist Studies.
Prof. Guo Chaoshun of Buddhist Studies serves as panel host.
Prof. Chen Yibiao of Buddhist Studies asks a question.
Riveting discussions among faculty ensue even after the event concludes.
A group photo to commemorate this gathering of minds.