SBT Instructor Training Programs
SBT recognizes that many of our members may feel a sincere wish to share the Dharma with others. It’s important to first clarify the difference between sharing and teaching. Anyone can share the Dharma informally, which is welcomed and encouraged. You can discuss your thoughts and feelings on the various Buddhist principles, concepts, and practices with others. However, teaching the Dharma is seen as a more formal and official role. This can include presenting structured talks and sharing personal interpretations of the Dharma.
SBT also makes a clear distinction between instructors and Dharma Teachers. In SBT, instructors are certified to instruct and coordinate specific practices or programs that they have been properly trained in. This can include leading daily meditations and practices and instructing programs. Dharma Teachers, by contrast, are authorized to present formal teachings.
In traditional Buddhist cultures, one would never ask to teach—this would demonstrate a lack of humility and would likely raise concerns with one’s teacher. More appropriately, if a student felt ready, they may say to their teacher, “I hope that one day, I possess enough knowledge to share the Dharma with others.”
Buddhists believe teaching an accurate presentation of the Dharma is a great responsibility. SBT even has precepts stating that members are not permitted to teach the Dharma without permission. This is done to protect the Dharma, the instructor, the audience, and our organization. If not properly prepared, an instructor who teaches prematurely may find themselves in difficult situations – confronted by tough questions, criticism, or hollow flattery that may feed egoic pride.
Our SBT Instructor Training Programs
To support our members’ aspirations – and to do so responsibly, we offer incremental training programs that guide instructors-in-training through the various programs we offer. This allows students to gradually cultivate their knowledge, skills, and confidence. Below is an outline of our various instructor training programs.
SBT Instructor Training Outline
1. Basic Meditation Instructor Training Programs
2. Skillful Living Instructor Program
3. Advanced Meditation Instructor Program
4. Secular Buddhist Essentials Instructor Program
1. Basic Meditation Instructor Training Programs
Our Meditation Instructor Training Programs are designed for experienced students who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to their practice. These programs mirror our public meditation programs, and operate seamlessly behind the scenes, providing instructors-in-training the opportunity to practice and develop their teaching skills. As part of their training, instructors are required to attend and participate in the main public teachings, and later in the week, lead the same class to fulfill their training requirements. Through this process, instructors develop both confidence and competence, culminating in their certification as Basic Meditation Instructors.
2. Skillful Living Instructor Training Program
Our Skillful Living Instructor Training Program is designed for those who have completed our Basic Meditation Programs and are ready to deepen their teaching skills and knowledge. This program, based on the Buddha’s teachings, is the foundation of the SBT curriculum and for many, it’s their first step into the Buddhadharma. This program mirrors our public Skillful Living program, and operates seamlessly behind the scenes, providing instructors-in-training the opportunity to practice and develop their teaching skills. As part of their training, instructors are required to attend and participate in the main public teachings, and later in the week, lead the same class to fulfill their training requirements. Through this process, instructors develop both confidence and competence, culminating in their certification as Skillful Living Program Instructors.
3. Advanced Meditation Instructor Training Programs
Our Advanced Meditation Instructor Training Program is designed for those who have completed both our Basic Meditation Programs and our Skillful Living Program. This program follows a mentor-based approach, pairing instructors one-on-one with students. Certification is granted in a structured, three-tiered system based on both teaching proficiency and personal meditation skills.
4. Secular Buddhism Essentials Instructor Training Program
Our Secular Buddhism Essentials Instructor Training Program is designed for those who have completed our Basic Meditation Programs and our Skillful Living Program. This program mirrors our public program, and operates seamlessly behind the scenes, providing instructors-in-training the opportunity to practice and develop their knowledge and teaching skills. As part of their training, instructors are required to attend and participate in the main public teachings, and later in the week, lead the same class to fulfill their training requirements. Through this process instructors develop both confidence and competence, culminating in their certification as Secular Buddhism Essential Instructors.
Dharma Teaching
When a teacher believes an instructor is ready – free from pride or ambition – they may be formally authorized to teach. Being recognized as qualified to teach the Dharma is not based on knowledge and experience alone, but perhaps more importantly, on whether the teachings have truly ripened within the individual, and the fruits of their practice are clearly evident.