< Issue No. 20 (2025/2026)
Sub-Article
A Transdisciplinary Approach to Teaching Buddhist Studies
Garrett, Frances, University of Toronto
Abstract
The widespread application of mindfulness and its association with an understanding of Buddhism as therapeutic plays a role in enthusiasm for courses on Buddhism in post-secondary institutions. This essay documents how two University of Toronto Buddhist Studies programs teach about Buddhism's role in healing practices globally, while also attending to student demands for compassionate educational environments. I propose that these programs offer a trans-disciplinary model of studying Buddhist traditions that is designed to enrich student interest with an academic framework sensitive to diverse Buddhist communities, cultures, and histories.