Principles of Professional Engagement

Subject Overview

This subject explores ethical professional engagement through the bodhisattva values of committed service and embodied practice, offering frameworks applicable to both Buddhist and secular practitioners. Students develop competencies in identifying and communicating the key elements of a bodhisattva model of engagement. They apply Buddhist teaching to organisational ethics through structured practice methodologies. Students also evaluate the bodhisattva values of committed service and practice through applied practice scenarios. Emphasising practice-based learning modules, the subject connects ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges in professional ecosystems. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and communicate the key elements of the bodhisattva model of engagement.
2. Apply Buddhist concepts to contemporary professional or community contexts.
3. Reflexively and critically evaluate bodhisattva values, practices and roles in professional engagement within a groupwork context.
4. Develop competencies aligned with Buddhist teachings and relevant to ethical professional engagement.

Assessments

• Assessment 1, Part A: Individual teaching presentation of the practical significance of a bodhisattva value (10%, due week 3)
• Assessment 1, Part B: Critical self-evaluation of the presentation (20%, due week 5)
• Assessment 2: Portfolio showcasing a bodhisattva (in progress)’s learning journey in a modern world (30%, due week 7)
• Assessment 3: Reflective report detailing practical application of professional engagement strategies to a real-word learning experience in a group (40%, due week 10)