Knowledge Development for Readiness to ASEAN Community of International Relations Students, at College of Politics and Governance, Mahasarakham University

Abstract

This research aims (1) to explore IR students’ knowledge on ASEAN community (2) to make recommendations for improve IR students understanding and perceptions toward ASEAN community.  The research finding, according the policy of the Ministry of Education under ASEAN declaration on education applied the concept of Readiness as the framework. The research methods used the questionnaire as a tool to the data from 63 participants (IR students – particularly the upperclassmen such as junior and senior students). The finding reveals as follow.  (1) In general, the sampling group had enrolled at least couple ASEAN - related courses; mostly selected Chinese as the third language; most sampling group followed news on ASEAN three or four days a week; and previously joined ASEAN - related activities. (2) In term of students’ score from ASEAN community assessment, its mean is 8.29 points. (3) A result from the opinion test score of IR students, overall is average with exception of the first index (dissemination of news and information) which is strength. (4) From general information, research found that a year of study, average assessment points, ASEAN - related courses enrollment and ASEAN - related activities participation are not effected on the Knowledge about ASEAN community. Yet a frequency of following ASEAN News affects the knowledge. It is worth to note that opinion score of IR students with different years and grades on student development is insignificant, while opinion score of students with different activities opinions on student development is significant.  (5) IR students are highly recommend that the College of Politics and Governance should open the English courses for a Political Scientist, which offer  critical skills such as  English efficiency and encourage students ability to use ASEAN languages including technology to facilitate student skills. Finally, they suggestion for the College of Politics and Governance is College should actively promote English usage on daily basis.