FROM:  Martin A. Rosenthal, M. Ed.
rosenthalm@comm.net

 I am performing a project for EDSP 6540,  Methods of Instruction
 for Gifted Students, at the University of New Orleans with
 Dr. M. Banbury.

The purpose of this project is, first, to introduce gifted students to
the Veda's conception of "triguna" or the three modes of material
nature.  Secondly it is to empower students to learn ways of
researching more about the three modes of material nature
(Goodness, Passion and Ignorance) and to learn how to create
projects which will present this concept and its application to the
general populace. These presentations may appeal to multiple
intelligences as described by Dr. Gardner of Harvard: linguistic;
analytical (math and logic); spatial (art); bodily kinesthetic
(dance, athletics etc.); musical; interpersonal (political, social);
intrapersonal (self-awareness, mysticism, psychological);
naturalistic (atuned to nature's harmony and balance).

Finally, the goal of this project is to discover ways to
introduce the teaching of Triguna (GPI - the three modes of material
nature: Goodness, Passion and Ignorance) into the standard
curriculum.  This can be achieved in three presently identified
phases (more may be discovered as we progress): 1. students will
include these ideas in their school work; 2. students will influence
teachers to include these ideas in their lessons; 3. students will
pursue the means and methods to influence school boards to
appreciate and include  these ideas at the local, state, and even
national level. Therefore all this will also be a lesson in research
methods, creative presentations, and social empowerment.

Students who do not agree with the concept of Triguna may also
provide creative input.

The present plan is to conduct this class over the internet and local
bulletin boards.  As inertia develops, the students and director may
pursue facilities at UNO or other public education facilities.  The
library is one possible source.

TO GET STARTED:
Visit the GPI HOME PAGE on the internet:
	http://pages.prodigy.com/gpihome/

And/Or  read the files in Utilties, main library of
 "Place with No Name:" (504) 280-6022
This is a computer bulletin board (BB).
	GPI - WHY Goodness, Passion and Ignorance
	GPI - SOCRATES
	GPI - The BIBLE
	GPI - The GITA and GPI
	GPI - guide to FICTION

And/Or read:
     The Bhagavad Gita:  Chapter 14: Verses 5-20 The Three Modes
of Material Nature
     Chapter 18: 19-39 - The Perfection of Renunciation

NOTICE:   This project is not intended to promote any particular
religious faith, but to my knowledge, the Bhagavad Gita is the best
source of information about the three modes of material nature.  I
confess I have a devotional interest, but request that this project be
pursued for the secular or humanistic value of the understanding of
Triguna.

One part of this project shall be to become aware of prejudice against
the Vedas in parts of our mostly European Judeo-Christian American
society so we can avoid obstacles due to Zenophobia (fear of strangers).
If Triguna is worth understanding, then we must present it in a way which
will not arouse the unnecessary defenses of those who are not acquainted
with it.