Management for Enhancing the Capacity of Vocational Skill Development in the Sunday Buddhist Study Centers of Phichit Province

Abstract

          This research article aimed to: 1) examine the status, problems, and obstacles in the management of Sunday Buddhist Studies Centers in Phichit province; 2) compare personal factors with opinions regarding the status, problems, obstacles, and management success of the centers; and 3) propose management guidelines to enhance the centers' capabilities in vocational skill development. This quantitative study utilized questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 262 monks and laypeople. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, T-test, and F-test, alongside content analysis for open-ended responses.

           The research findings revealed that

1. The overall status of the centers was at a high level (= 3.59), with the highest-rated item being efficient and transparent management and budget allocation ( = 3.87). In contrast, problems and obstacles were perceived at a moderate level overall ( = 3.01), with the most significant issue being insufficient budget support, which hindered the centers’ operations and activities ( = 4.04).
2. The comparison of personal factors revealed that administrative committee members and teachers of different genders, ages, and educational levels held significantly different overall opinions at the .05 level of statistical significance. However, differences in position did not result in a statistically significant difference in opinions.
3. To enhance the centers’ capacity for vocational skill development, the study recommends ensuring adequate budget allocation, increasing personnel and teacher compensation, developing digital instructional media, and organizing activities tailored to learners’ ages and interests. Furthermore, a clear and systematic supervision and evaluation process should be established.