To facilitate broader participation, the BSI offers commitment at two levels of participation: audit and certificate of Buddhist studies.
Audit Student
An audit student is enrolled in the class, pays tuition, has access to all class materials (including the Canvas classroom), is not expected to deliver presentations, and is not pursuing a 4-year certificate of Buddhist Studies. Audit students may be eligible to obtain credit toward the 4-year certificate if they have had full attendance during their audit status, they have met the expectations stated below, and are approved by the BSI after a review.
- For guidance to request change of audit to certificate status contact: BSI-Admin@Dharmateacherorder.org
Expectations for Audit Students
Audit students are encouraged to attend classes and other activities of the DTO-BSI.
All students regardless of status must always keep their cameras on to promote participation and inspire engagement in the class.
Full virtual class participation is expected.
Audit students are expected to complete the assigned readings but are exempt from delivering class presentations. However, they have the option to present if circumstances permit.
Certificate Students
A Certificate of Buddhist Studies is conferred by the Dharma Teacher Order after completion of the four year curriculum, and upon the recommendation of BSI senior leaders and the approval by Thay.
Expectations for Certificate Students
With gratitude for receiving the gift of the Dharma, a certificate student commits to the following:
- Attend all classes.
- Complete reading assignments prior to scheduled classes.
- Meet with an assigned book mentor before and after their presentation.
- Participate actively in class during the presentation via Zoom.
- Participate actively in the Virtual Classroom using the Canvas LMS (Learning Management System). Training will be provided.
- Take a quiz after the last presentation of each book. There will be a total of 7 quizzes for this year’s class.
- Develop regular personal meditation practice.
- Demonstrate observance of the DTO Guiding Principles.
