Development of Motion Graphics to Enhance Fertilizer Application Skills for Sustainable Community-Based Agricultural Management: A Case Study of Volcanic Durian Farmers in Sisaket Province

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the use of digital technology and the development of motion graphics to enhance durian fertilizer application skills for sustainable community-based agricultural management. The study was conducted with volcanic durian farmers who cultivate durian for commercial purposes in Sisaket Province, Thailand. The participants were small-scale farmers with 3–15 years of experience in durian cultivation, who are directly responsible for fertilizer management and the use of digital technology in their own orchards.

A mixed-methods research design was employed, with quantitative research as the primary approach and qualitative research as a supplementary component. The quantitative sample consisted of 30 volcanic durian farmers from Kantharalak, Khun Han, and Si Rattana districts, selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires focusing on fertilizer management practices, the use of motion graphics, and production management efficiency. The qualitative component involved in-depth interviews with key informants purposively selected from the same group of participants to explain, elaborate, and contextualize the quantitative findings within the community setting.

The quantitative results revealed that most farmers initially relied on personal experience for fertilizer management and lacked the use of soil analysis data. However, after the implementation of motion graphics, farmers’ knowledge and skills in fertilizer selection, application rates, and appropriate timing significantly improved. This led to a reduction in excessive fertilizer use, lower production costs, and improved product quality. Meanwhile, the qualitative findings indicated that motion graphics helped farmers better understand complex fertilizer management processes through visual media aligned with real-world working contexts, resulting in a behavioral shift from habitual fertilizer application to practices grounded in scientific principles.

The integration of quantitative and qualitative findings demonstrates that qualitative data effectively explain the mechanisms and reasons underlying the quantitative outcomes. The results indicate that motion graphics are an effective digital tool for enhancing fertilizer management skills and can support the long-term sustainable development of community-based agriculture.