As we analyze Western thought vs. Eastern thought, we also should take a look at the application of each school of thought is applied. Lets say that American schools reform to include eastern philosophy in its curriculum. What steps would have to occur to prepare our students and parents?

Does anybody have any thoughts on this? I am not sure on what steps should be taken.

What age students?

I'm guessing for all ages.

I included a one-quarter (nine weeks) unit in eastern thought and lit (to some extent) for high school seniors and had no issues. That school's student population was nearly 100% Christian (either Catholic or Apostolic, for the most part), yet I never got questioning phone calls or visits from parents nor objections from my students.

I prefaced the unit with the ideas that my students, in their lifetimes, would need to understand that not everyone thinks and acts and believes as they and their families do. There's a wide world out there, and it's interesting, as well as helpful, to work on understanding other cultures.

Thank you very much.

You're very welcome.

Introducing Eastern philosophy into the curriculum of American schools would require careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth transition for students and parents. Here are some steps that could be taken:

1. **Understanding the purpose and content**: Educators, administrators, and policymakers should study and familiarize themselves with various Eastern philosophies and their principles. This will help in determining the goals and content to be included in the curriculum.

2. **Curriculum development**: Collaborate with experts in Eastern philosophy and education to develop a comprehensive curriculum that incorporates key concepts, teachings, and practices from Eastern traditions. This curriculum should be age-appropriate and align with the existing educational standards.

3. **Teacher training and professional development**: Provide comprehensive training and professional development opportunities for teachers to equip them with the necessary knowledge and pedagogical skills to effectively teach Eastern philosophy. This may involve workshops, seminars, and ongoing support to ensure teachers are confident in delivering the material.

4. **Community engagement**: Involve parents and the broader community in the decision-making process. Conduct town hall meetings, workshops, and information sessions to explain the rationale behind incorporating Eastern philosophy and address any concerns or questions parents may have. This will help build support and understanding.

5. **Gradual implementation**: Implement the curriculum gradually, starting with a pilot program in select schools. This will allow for evaluation, refinement, and adjustments based on feedback from teachers, students, and parents. Use this phase to identify and address any challenges that arise.

6. **Resource allocation**: Allocate resources, including funding, materials, and technology, to support the integration of Eastern philosophy into the curriculum. Ensure the availability of appropriate textbooks, reference materials, and learning resources for teachers and students.

7. **Monitoring and evaluation**: Establish systems to monitor the effectiveness and impact of the curriculum. Regularly assess student learning outcomes, gather feedback from teachers and parents, and make necessary adjustments to improve the program over time.

8. **Continuous dialogue and reflection**: Encourage ongoing dialogue and reflection among educators, students, and parents regarding the integration of Eastern philosophy. Create spaces for open discussions, debates, and sharing perspectives. This will deepen understanding, foster critical thinking, and promote cultural exchange.

By following these steps, schools can provide a comprehensive education that includes both Western and Eastern philosophies, promoting a broader understanding of different worldviews and preparing students to thrive in a diverse global society.