This dissertation proposes an approach to learning, evaluation and knowledge that shifts the direction of attention from development of more external tools and rubrics, to the need to cultivate new understanding of the human self, greater inward balance, and deeper experience of human potential. It addresses student engagement, will for learning, and the presence of purpose and hope, by looking newly at the reason and goal of learning. Looking at the evolution of educational assessment over time, it addresses gaps between methods of assessing human capability, and knowledge and wisdom that science and cosmology demonstrates is wrapped and carried within every cell of a human being. Chapters of this work examine the depth and potential of human beings, and the foundation of learning and knowledge, from numerous angles, through integration of findings from contemplative, educational, and scientific traditions. While a growing body of scholarly work is examining the relationship between Buddhism and human development, placing particular emphasis on neuroscience and the role of the brain in learning, this work is informed by the study and practice of Sufism. Commonly identified as the contemplative, or mystical, branch of Islam, Sufi teachings remain a little known human lineage, and stand to help illuminate and provide practical ways to access and cultivate human potential toward fuller expression. They place a human being at the center of his or her development, and are oriented toward learning for transformation. Sufi teachings and practices provide particular insight into cognition and the heart, and the relevance of findings in evolutionary cosmology and cellular biology to ways human beings value and experience their being. It is the thesis of this work that for learning and evaluation to result in health and lasting growth at the level of individual and society, focus on outward methods and measures must be turned toward practices for personal integrity, inner awareness, and coherence of mind and heart. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]