Public Participation in the Development of Creative Tourism Plans: A Case Study of Muang District, Phitsanulok Province

Abstract

          This research’s objectives were: 1) to study the level of public participation in the development of creative tourism plans; 2) to compare personal factors affecting public participation in the development of creative tourism plans; and 3) to study the public participation guidelines for the development of creative tourism plans. Both quantitative research and qualitative research were employed.  The research results showed below.

1. Public participations in the development of creative tourism plans overall with all five items were at a moderate level. With consideration of each aspect, it was found that, sorted from highest to lowest average, receiving information, providing information, expressing opinions. There were the aspect of participation and support, and participation in work at every step, respectively.
2. Comparisons of the personal factors and public participations in the development of creative tourism plans in Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province revealed that people with various ages, education, status, occupation, and monthly income overall had different contributions, statistically at the .01 level, while the overall participations of people of different genders was not statistically different at the .05 level.
3. Guidelines for developing public participations in the creative tourism plans should include publications of various news information for the communities to know thoroughly,  encourage people to attend community meetings and express their opinions on problems and needs. Training or activities should be organized to provide knowledge and understanding of plan development to the people. Also, they should create motivation and closeness to the people.