A Study of Local Knowledge Space Construction Process of Kwan Phayao Fisherfolks Community to Promote Lifelong Learning

Abstract

The study aims to 1) study the process of the construction of local knowledge space in Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities, Muang District, Phayao Province, and 2) to study and synthesize lifelong learning models based on local knowledge of Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities. This research was examined through qualitative research method. The data collection was divided into 2 phases: Phase 1, studied the construction of local knowledge space in the Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities by using documents, observation, and interviews with local fishermen from four communities derived from snowball selection. Phase 2, studied and synthesized lifelong learning models based on local knowledge of the Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities by conducting interview data from key informants derived from purposive sampling: 1) Kwan Phayao local fishermen, 2) children and youth, 3) teachers and educational personnel, 4) school administrators, and 5) a member of local administrative organization. The data was collected from March to September 2023. Knowledge space concept and lifelong learning concept were employed as a framework for studying and analyzing data.

The results of the research found that: 1) The Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities have co-created a local knowledge space in the form of situational knowledge based on the experiences of local fishermen that contested and articulated with scientific knowledge, natural resource management of the government, and socio-economic dynamic of communities in the area around Kwan Phayao. There are 3 operations: learning and experiential operations, networking and negotiating operations, and institutional and connecting network operations. 2) Lifelong learning model based on local knowledge of Kwan Phayao fisherfolks communities are holistic and dynamic reflecting the knowledge space of local fisherfolks communities and the area around Kwan Phayao. Particularly, local fishery learning field is considered as the center. Moreover, the elements of lifelong learning connect holistically including learning facilitators, learning resources, learning advocates, and learners of all ages.