Trends of Humanities and Social Sciences Research

Decoding and Coping with the Forms of Fragmentation of Knowledge

Mohammad Manzoor Malik — Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This paper identified reductionism, hasty conceptual generalization, Eurocentrism, and epistemological bias as forms of the fragmentation of knowledge. The fragmentation of knowledge goes against the philosophically Greek-based Western pattern of knowledge which was mainly in the hands of polymaths. The polymathic spirit remained until the emergence of Modernity. The emergent fragmentation of knowledge received criticism from thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Michel Foucault, Ivan Illich, Howard Gardner, Jürgen Wolfgang Habermas, and Chris B. Heilig. The division of knowledge into specializations has two-fold effects: positive such as deep specialization and negative as the loss of holistic understanding and fragmentation. There are four forms of fragmentation: (1) reductionism, (2) hasty conceptual generalization, (3) Eurocentrism, and (4) epistemological bias. Reductionism is epistemological and theoretical. Epistemological reductionism suggests that all knowledge can be reduced to a single form of explanation, whereas theoretical reductionism suggests that one theory can be reduced to or explained by another, more fundamental theory. Hasty conceptual generalization happens when a concept is extended beyond its appropriate scope, leading to the loss of the essence of the phenomenon to which the concept is applied. Eurocentrism is mainly to understand and interpret the world from a European perspective. Epistemological bias is the criticism of many epistemological errors that can be corrected by adopting mixed methods, proper hermeneutics, reflexivity, observer participation, and erosion of gender bias.

An Analysis of the Challenges Posed by Terrorist Movements in the Middle East (2020–2024): Impacts on International Relations and Global Counterterrorism Strategies

Sarayoot Ratsamee — Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to analyze the challenges posed by terrorist movements in the Middle East between 2020 and 2024 and their impact on international relations. It focuses on the changes in the region after the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the use of technology to spread terrorist ideologies and conduct cyberattacks. Terrorist movements continue to cause instability in countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, despite the efforts of the United States of America and its allies using diplomatic and military strategies. The study also examines new forms of international cooperation, such as cybersecurity collaboration, detection, and prevention of technological threats, as well as strengthening cooperation in Southeast Asia to counter the spread of terrorist ideologies in the region. Furthermore, this study suggests ways Thailand can learn from the responses of other countries in adjusting national and regional defense policies and strategies to ensure long-term security. This study not only provides an understanding of the challenges arising from terrorist movements in the Middle East but also proposes approaches for enhancing global security and developing new strategies to address the spread of terrorist ideologies in the Contemporary world.

Between the Dragon and the Eagle: ASEAN and Human Rights in the Era of Great Power Competition

William J Jones — Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights, which was established in 2009 after the promulgation of the ASEAN Charter, was the end of human rights regionalism in ASEAN. The process which began officially in 1993 with the first official mention of human rights in ASEAN officialdom culminated with commentary that was both celebratory and derogatory. The 15 years since AICHR’s establishment have seen little progress towards human rights protection or broad advocacy emanating from AICHR. With the rise of a multipolar world the question of human rights in ASEAN is an important one to thought to reflect upon. This article argues that the AICHR’s establishment was due to the effects of the ‘Unipolar Period’ of international affairs. Furthermore, since the world has moved to multipolarity with the rise of China in international and East Asian affairs, human rights in Southeast Asia are moving into a period of stagnation or retreat.

Participation Model of the Elderly in Reviving the Mangkala Tradition and Preserving the Local Cultural Heritage of the Lower Northern Region Amidst the Modern Trend

Parinya Wanlem, Suthep Khammek — Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to study the participation patterns of the elderly in the conservation and revival of the Mangkala tradition in the context of social and cultural changes in the lower northern region in order to promote the sustainability of the local cultural heritage of the lower northern region in the modern era. The research used qualitative research. The research sample consists of 20 elderly people in the Mangkala Folk Music Conservation Club, Phitsanulok Province. Using in-depth interview techniques and focus group discussions, the content analysis of the data was used. The research results found that the Mangkala Folk Music Conservation Club, Phitsanulok Province, is an important group. The elderly in the group pass on various knowledge, including musical playing skills, beliefs in the rituals of the performance, and roles in serving society in various ceremonies. As for the transition of the era, it has received attention from government agencies and educational institutions, so Mangkala has been passed on and become well-known again. In addition, Mangkala has been revived in modern areas, such as shopping malls, cultural exhibitions, and educational institutions that give importance to the youth, giving them the opportunity to learn and practice in order to continue the life of Mangkala and spread it further.

The Effects of School Development in the Kru Rak Thin Project Reinforced by the S.A.V.E. Model

Katcharin Mahawong, Supachoke Piyasant, Narin Nonthamand, Sakaorat Kraimak — Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The objectives of this research were 1) compare the assessment results before and after the implementation of school development under the "Kru Rak Thin" project, supplemented by the S.A.V.E. model. 2) To compare the assessment results categorized by position, region, and school size following the implementation of school development under the "Kru Rak Thin" project, supplemented by the S.A.V.E. model The sample consisted of 249 schools participating in the "Kru Rak Thin" project using stratified random sampling methods, and three informants from each school, including a teacher, an administrator, and a reinforcement team, provided the data. Data collection was conducted using 6Q quality measure evaluation form. The data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and nonparametric tests such as the Wilcoxon signed rank test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Mann-Whitney test.

The results were as follows: 1) Overall, the post-implementation scores were significantly higher than the pre-implementation scores. 2) The comparison of post-implementation scores, categorized by position, region, and school size using the S.A.V.E. Model, revealed no significant differences at the .05 level among teachers, administrators, and reinforcement team. When comparing post-implementation scores across regions using the S.A.V.E. model, significant differences were found at the .05 level. Pairwise comparisons revealed no significant difference in post-implementation scores between the Northeastern and Southern regions, while other regions differed significantly at the .05 level. Schools with 720 or more students demonstrated significantly different performance from the other size categories.

Factors Affecting Mathematical Literacy as Assessed by PISA Among Grade 9 Students in Princess Chulabhorn Science High Schools

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to 1) Examine the relationship between student-related factors, school-related factors, and family-related factors and mathematical literacy based on the PISA assessment framework for Grade 9 students from Princess Chulabhorn Science High School; and 2) Analyze factors affecting mathematical literacy based on the PISA assessment framework among these students. The sample consisted of 192 Grade 9 students from Princess Chulabhorn Science High School in the 2024 academic year, selected through multi-stage random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale, consisting of 42 items. Data analysis included Basic statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and Multiple Regression Analysis.

Results revealed that various factors showed correlations with mathematical literacy based on the PISA assessment framework ranging from .322 to .642, indicating a low to high level of correlation, with statistical significance at the .05 level for all except for the family support factor (LF1). Six factors significantly affected mathematical literacy at the .05 level, in descending order: classroom environment (CF2) (β = .638) family environment (LF2) (β = .480) instructional media (CF1) (β = -.398) basic mathematics skills (SF3) (β = .356) family support (LF1) (β = -.309) student learning behaviors (SF4) (β = 1.97)

Digital Skills of Local Government Executives in the 21st Century and Their Relationship with Employee Performance in Mueang District, Maha Sarakham Province

Ntapat Worapongpat — Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The digital transformation of the 21^st century has redefined leadership roles, requiring local government executives to possess strong digital skills to improve organizational performance. This study investigates the digital competencies of local government executives in Mueang District, Maha Sarakham Province, and their relationship with employee performance. The objectives are to (1) assess the current status of digital skills among executives, (2) examine the influence of these skills on employee performance, and (3) analyze the correlation between digital competencies and key performance outcomes. A quantitative research design was applied using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. A sample of 100 participants was drawn from a population of 1,152 local government personnel through cluster random and purposive sampling. The instruments were validated by experts and pilot-tested, resulting in a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.95. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis via SPSS.Findings revealed that digital knowledge, communication, and technology-assisted decision-making significantly predicted employee performance. Problem-solving skills showed a positive but less substantial effect. These results underscore the importance of digital leadership development for local executives to enhance efficiency and service delivery. The study offers practical implications for public sector management and contributes to the academic discourse on digital governance.

Factors Influencing Decision-Making to Participate in the ‘Ubon Book Fair’

Phaksachiphon Khanthong, Surasak Suksai, Jiranan Waenkhaeon, Suphorn Konglom — Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study employed cross-sectional descriptive research. It aimed to examine the level of satisfaction of the marketing mix and identify the marketing mix factors influencing the decision to participate in the activities next year within the context of the ‘Ubon Book Fair’. The sample consisted of 330 participants attending the 13th ‘Ubon Book Fair’, held from August 10-18, 2024, at Sunee Tower Department Store, Ubon Ratchathani Province. Participants were selected using random sampling. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The research findings indicate that participants were highly satisfied with various aspects of the marketing mix. The factors that significantly influenced their decision to attend the event in the following year, at a statistically significant level, included education level (B = 0.213), the number of activities participated in (B = 0.098), as well as satisfaction with the marketing mix in terms of price (B = 0.060), people (B = 0.066), and physical evidence (B = 0.079).

Social Return on Investment (SROI) Evaluation of the Project to Elevate Local Products to Commercial Levels for the Development of Competitive Potential of Khuean Phak Subdistrict Community, Phrao District, Chiang Mai Province

Khongsak Tuisuep, Torsak Kosawang — Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The objective of this study is to evaluate the Social Return on Investment (SROI) and propose strategies to enhance the competitive potential of the Khuean Phak Subdistrict community in Phrao District, Chiang Mai Province. Data were collected from two sample groups: 1) members of the community enterprise and 2) academics from the project to elevate local products to commercial levels. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The study found that the project had an SROI value of 1.23, indicating that every 1 baht invested generated a social return of 1.23 baht. This demonstrates that the project is a worthwhile investment, capable of increasing community members' income, reducing unnecessary expenses, and promoting the conservation of natural resources and local wisdom through product development. Additionally, the researcher proposed seven strategies to enhance the competitive potential of the Khuean Phak Subdistrict community: 1) product development and standardization, 2) financial and accounting skills development, 3) experiential marketing promotion, 4) personnel capacity building, 5) innovation and technology application, 6) network partnership development, and 7) sustainable development. It is hoped that the SROI evaluation and proposed strategies will lead to tangible and sustainable development for the Khuean Phak Subdistrict community enterprise.

Marketing Strategies to Create Added value for Namprik Krathue Products with the Development of Packaging and the Development of Distribution Channels

Supatra Khumhaeng, Sawitree Muneesri, Preecha Muneesri — Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The research on marketing strategies to add value to Krathue chili paste products focused on two main objectives: (1) to enhance product value through packaging development, and (2) to improve distribution channels. The study involved a sample of 400 consumers of Krathue chili paste from the Maila Farm Community Enterprise in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The sampling methods used were purposive sampling and convenience sampling. Data collection was conducted using questionnaires, and descriptive statistics were used for analysis. The results showed that most consumers were female, aged 51 and above, with an associate degree, a monthly income between 10,001 and 20,000 baht, single, and self-employed. Most purchases were for personal consumption, planned in advance, and influenced by friends. The products were typically purchased on Sunday afternoons, with spending per purchase ranging from 101 to 200 baht. Buyers were the main decision-makers in the purchasing process. Regarding the marketing mix, all elements were rated at a high level: product (x̄ = 3.69), price (x̄ = 3.75), place (x̄ = 3.73), and promotion (x̄ = 3.79). Strategies for adding value to the product included creating a distinctive brand, developing attractive and standardized packaging, and introducing innovative packaging that adheres to design principles and quality evaluation-focusing on product protection, user convenience, and hygiene and safety. Packaging structures were adapted to meet community needs. In terms of distribution, the strategy emphasized diverse sales formats and strong product communication. This included sharing product benefits, planning and managing online communication, storytelling, promotional campaigns, health trends, seasonal themes, quotes, and humor—all aimed at increasing the value and appeal of Krathue chili paste products.

A Comparative Study of Factors Influencing the Use of Government Housing Bank's Mobile Banking Services among Users in Eastern

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to examine the use of mobile banking applications in three dimensions: trust, risk, and confidence. It further aims to compare these three dimensions across demographic factors. This is a quantitative study utilizing a questionnaire for data collection. The sample includes 328 users of the Government Housing Bank's mobile application in the Eastern Region of Rayong Province, selected through multi-stage sampling. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency distribution, percentage, mean, standard deviation, one-way ANOVA, and pairwise comparison using Fisher's Protected LSD test.

The study found that: (1) Service users perceive mobile banking applications as highly trustworthy, involving minimal risk, and credibility, with overall satisfaction rated at the highest level. (2) A comparison of mobile banking application usage across three dimensions—trust, risk, and credibility —categorized by age groups, revealed that trust levels vary significantly among different age groups. Notably, elderly users aged 60 and above demonstrated distinct trust levels compared to other age groups. Additionally, when examining individual dimensions, it was found that trust levels differed significantly. Furthermore, when categorized by average monthly income, overall service usage varied. A detailed analysis of individual dimensions revealed statistically significant differences in both trust and risk, with significance at the .05 level.

Adaptation Guidelines for Aviation Industry Organizations and Air Transport Services under Business Disruption Situation to Support Thailand’s Air Transport Liberalization

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to: 1) study the operational characteristics of the aviation and air transport service industry under business transformation situations; 2) examine the components of organizational adaptation strategies for the aviation and air transport service industry under business transformation situations; and 3) develop a structural equation model for organizational adaptation strategies in the aviation and air transport service industry under business transformation situations to support the liberalization of air transport in Thailand. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research. The quantitative sample consists of 500 executives responsible for policy and related aspects within the aviation and air transport service industry. The qualitative sample comprises 15 experts in the aviation and air transport service industry. The research tools used include questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and multivariate statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The research findings reveal that the organizational adaptation strategies for the aviation and air transport service industry under business transformation situations to support the liberalization of air transport in Thailand, with the highest mean scores, are as follows: in terms of responsiveness, establishing close relationships with partners at all levels; in terms of digital transformation, designing business models that align with digital changes according to evolving paradigms; in terms of mindset or behavioral adjustment, providing personnel with knowledge and understanding of business cycles and disruptive change patterns in the digital economy era; and in terms of resource management, designing work with structures and coordination aimed at achieving goals. The hypothesis testing results indicate that there is no statistically significant difference at the 0.05 level in the importance given to organizational adaptation strategies for the aviation and air transport service industry under business transformation situations to support the liberalization of air transport in Thailand between ground operations and service businesses. The structural equation model developed was found to meet the evaluation criteria and is consistent with empirical data, with a chi-square probability level of 0.09, a relative chi-square of 1.108, a goodness-of-fit index of 0.952, and a root mean square error of approximation of 0.015. The qualitative research results show that experts agree with the proposed strategies and consider them suitable for use as guidelines for adaptation, including the development of business models for learning and future growth.

The Satisfaction of Users Towards the Quality of the 19th Batch of Medical Graduates, Doctor of Medicine Program at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital (MNRH) Praboromarajchanok Institute, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health Institutions join in Mahidol University, revised curriculum in 2013

Angkana winaichatsak, Amornrat banlangsanoi, Sutad Yearngklang — Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital has been producing rural physicians since 1997. Monitoring and evaluating the performance and competencies of medical graduates after one to two years of practice provides essential data for improving, adjusting, and refining the curriculum of the Medical Education Center. This ensures the production of high-quality medical graduates capable of effectively working in rural areas and meeting the healthcare needs of Health Region 9. Objective: To assess the satisfaction of employers and colleagues regarding the quality of medical graduates from the 19th cohort and to compare satisfaction levels based on different evaluators' characteristics (gender, age, and roles), the province of practice, and the duration of collaboration. Methodology: The study sample consisted of 258 individuals who employed or worked with the 19^th cohort medical graduates. A satisfaction questionnaire was used to assess various aspects of graduate performance, with a five-point rating scale. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentage, mean, standard deviation. Comparisons were made using t-test, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The overall satisfaction of the stakeholders with the quality of the 19th batch of graduates was rated as good (mean = 4.25). The most prominent strengths were the graduates’ ethics and professionalism (mean = 4.30), followed by their ability to communicate and build relationships with patients, families, colleagues, and communities effectively (mean = 4.29), and their ability to work efficiently and happily in community settings (mean = 4.29). The area identified for improvement was the integration of knowledge from various fields, including social sciences, humanities, behavioral sciences, medical technology, as well as principles of patient care, the healthcare system, and relevant laws, to provide holistic patient management (mean = 4.12). In terms of evaluators' roles and work locations, hospital directors and employers in Surin Province showed significantly higher satisfaction levels (p = 0.015 and p = 0.030, respectively). Conclusion: The overall satisfaction with the quality of the 19th batch of medical graduates from the revised curriculum (2013) was good. However, further development is needed in the integration and application of knowledge in patient care, such as the appropriate use of laboratory tests, in future curriculum revisions.

Analysis of the Multiple Choice Questions exam in the course of health and disease of newborns to adolescents 1 for 4th year medical students, faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) are widely used in knowledge assessments because they can evaluate multiple objectives through numerous items. Following each exam, a test analysis is conducted to determine the validity and reliability of these questions. This study assessed the quality of MCQs used in the "Health and Diseases in Newborns to Adolescents I" course for fourth-year medical students of the Faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University. The evaluation included analyzing individual question quality and overall test set effectiveness and examining the relationship between question difficulty levels before and after the exam.

Methodology: The study was retrospective data from medical student exams in the 2020 academic year. There were four sets of 100 questions. Sets 1-4 were tested with 65, 50, 49, and 13 students. All MCQ test sets have been reviewed and assessed for quality by an examination validity assessment committee to ensure it according to the purpose of the course. The 400 answers to questions were analyzed as a difficulty (p) and distributing (r) of the exam. Statistical tools were applied to examine relationships, including mean, standard deviation, KR-20 reliability coefficient, and Pearson correlation.

Results: The results showed that the item difficulty for all four test sets ranged from 0.20 to 0.80, with 65.75% of items falling within this range, and item discrimination values above 0.35 for 22.75% of items, indicating good discrimination power. The validity of the test sets was confirmed, as they aligned with the course objectives, content, and structure. Reliability coefficients for all four sets were found to be acceptable (≥0.70). The correlation between the difficulty levels of questions before and after the exam ranged from 0.31 to 0.50, suggesting consistency between pre- and post-exam difficulty levels.

Conclusion: This study analyzed the quality of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in the Health and Diseases in Newborns to Adolescents I for 4^th year medical students. The findings indicate that most questions had appropriate difficulty and discrimination indices, with validity and reliability at acceptable levels. There was a moderate correlation between pre- and post-exam difficulty levels.

Factors Affecting the Adoption of Healthcare Robots in the Hospital: A Case Study of Hospital in Thailand

Kanokkan Hoymala, Chaiwat Oottamakorn — Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research studies factors affecting the adoption of healthcare robots in the hospital a case study of hospital in Thailand. This research investigated the factors involved in the robots using in hospital based on the results of 400 medical personnel involved in the use of healthcare robots. The medical staff was selected randomly for data collection. Data was gathered by an online closed-end questionnaire, which was tested in terms of content validity and reliability. Data analysis was performed by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to identify common factor and create new component groups.

The result revealed that factors affecting the adoption of healthcare robots in the hospital a case study of hospital in Thailand six groups of components: perceived risk had four components: legal concern, privacy concern, trust and safety. system concern had four components: technical, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, time. ethical concern had two components: social influence, change resistance. one component of facilitating conditions, behavioral intention and use behavior.