🥅Objectives and Evaluation

Why learn Tibetan?

• Gain access to understanding Buddhist philosophy and practices through the poetic and multi-layered meanings of Tibetan syllables and words.

• Open your world up to a community of fellow dharma students and teachers.

• See possessions as objects that are temporarily at hand, rather than fixed and permanent, through language use. 

• See feelings and problems as something that temporarily alight on us, not something that arise from our basic nature.

• Learn to communicate using an evidence-based way of forming verbs.

• Examine your critical thinking, your intentions, and your attachments through language use.

• Learn to distinguish between volitional and non-volitional actions.

• Continually examine the self and its role in your actions through considering your evidentiary perspective. 

From Micro to Macro - Why learn any second language?

• Brain stimulation (memory, concentration, creativity)

• Improved cognitive skills (problem-solving, analysis)

• Educational advantages (expanded educational opportunities, innovative approaches to science and technology)

• Personal development (new perspectives, self-confidence)

• Building relationships (nuanced understanding of perspectives, sharing ideas, connecting with others)

• Cultural insight (values, traditions, ways of life)

• Community building (sharing experiences, creating shared identity, raising bilingual or multilingual children)

• Career advancement (local and international opportunities)

• Travel experiences (meaningful travel experiences, deeper cultural engagement, overcoming barriers)

• Global understanding (more meaningful connections with people from all over the planet)

Where do I fit in and what are my personal objectives?

It's important to be able to frame your goals so that you can check your progress, and readjust as circumstances warrant. 

Here is a framework that you may find useful in guiding your progress toward your goals:

Newbies (CEFR A0–A1)

Learners with no prior exposure to Tibetan. Start from the alphabet, basic sounds, and common phrases. 

Heritage Speakers (CEFR A2–B1)

Tibetan diaspora speakers who understand and speak conversational Tibetan but lack formal reading, writing, or grammar training. 

Dharma Trekkers (CEFR A1–B2)

Travelers and Buddhist practitioners who want to use Tibetan in monasteries, retreats, and pilgrimages. Functional and spiritual focus. 

Dharma Interpreters (CEFR B2–C2)

Advanced learners who aim to interpret teachings, translate texts, or pursue rigorous study of Dharma language.