Journal of MCU Social Science Review

CULTIVATING VOLUNTEER CITIZENSHIP THROUGH ENGAGING SCOUT ACTIVITIES

Krung Muangnakrong — 2025-01-01

This academic article aims to present guidelines for developing volunteer citizenship through participatory scout activities by examining concepts, principles, and methods for youth development through scouting processes. The study finds that developing volunteer citizenship is a crucial process for social development, especially in an era facing various challenges and crises. Scout activities are designed to train youth in community service and other beneficial activities. Notably, participatory scout activities are considered an effective tool for youth development as they emphasize key principles of learning through practical experience, teamwork, and service to others. The development of volunteerism must be conducted systematically through three crucial processes: 1. developing knowledge and understanding of volunteerism and citizenship, 2. practicing through diverse and meaningful activities, and 3. building cooperative networks among homes, schools, and communities. Furthermore, the study reveals that organizing participatory scout activities should consider key components, including building internal motivation, developing teamwork skills, promoting creativity, and connecting activities to real-life situations. However, the development of volunteer citizenship faces several challenges, such as time and resource constraints, inequitable access to opportunities, and maintaining activity sustainability. Addressing these challenges requires developing appropriate support systems, building collaborative networks, and developing educational innovations that respond to Thai social contexts. This article presents guidelines for integrating participatory scout activities to develop volunteer citizenship through analysis of key components, activity guidelines, and development recommendations, which will benefit youth development and the creation of a strong and sustainable society.

DEVELOPMENT TEACHERS’ COMPETENCIES IN LEARNING MANAGEMENT OF THE FUTURE SKILLS

Benchaporn Wannupatam — 2025-01-01

This research aims to 1. examine the essential competencies required for teachers in facilitating future-oriented learning skills, 2. develop a training curriculum, 3. implement the training curriculum, 4. assess satisfaction with the curriculum, and 5. establish a network for teacher competency development in facilitating future-oriented learning skills. The study employs a mixed-methods approach. The target groups include: Phase 1 - 150 teachers; Phase 2 - 5 experts; Phase 3 - 50 teachers; and Phase 4 - 42 teachers. The tools used in the study are a training curriculum, curriculum manual, tests, teacher competency assessment forms, and satisfaction questionnaires. The statistical methods include percentage, mean, standard deviation, content analysis, and t-tests.

The findings revealed the following: The overall need for teacher competencies in facilitating future-oriented learning skills was at the highest level. The training curriculum for developing teacher competencies in future-oriented learning skills includes the curriculum's background, principles, objectives, content, structure (18 hours), training activities, materials, tools, and evaluation methods. The curriculum was deemed highly appropriate overall. Teachers' knowledge and understanding of facilitating future-oriented learning skills significantly improved after training, with a statistical significance level of .05. Teachers expressed high satisfaction with the training curriculum overall. The development of a network for enhancing teacher competencies in future-oriented learning skills demonstrated that teachers excelled in organizing learning activities and evaluating future-oriented learning outcomes at the highest level. Additionally, their competencies in designing and writing lesson plans and creating and using instructional media were at a high level. Teachers expressed the highest level of satisfaction. Moreover, the network facilitated awareness, communication through various channels, knowledge sharing, and the extension of learning opportunities.

APPRECIATION AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN CARING FOR HERITAGE TREES IN NAKHONTHAI DISTRICT, PHITSANULOK PROVINCE

Saowaluk Limsiriwong — 2025-01-01

This research aims to: 1. study the level of public participation in caring for heritage trees and their appreciation of heritage trees, 2. compare public participation in caring for and valuing heritage trees, and 3. provide recommendations for the conservation of heritage trees in Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province. The study employs a quantitative research methodology, collecting data through questionnaires from a sample of 310 individuals. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, with hypothesis testing conducted using one-way ANOVA. The findings are presented through descriptive analysis supported by statistical tables.

The results of the study indicate that the overall level of public participation in caring for heritage trees was high. The highest mean score was observed in participation in tree ordination ceremonies or tree planting activities. Regarding the level of appreciation of heritage trees, the overall perception was rated at the highest level. The item with the highest mean score was the recognition of heritage trees as a medium for cultural identity preservation. The hypothesis testing results revealed that the mean scores for participation in caring for heritage trees differed significantly based on the duration of residence in the community and occupation. Regarding the appreciation of heritage trees, significant differences were found based on the respondents' place of origin. In terms of ranking recommendations for public participation in heritage tree conservation, the top three recommendations out of 11 were: 1. educating local children and youth, 2. creating signage to indicate the locations of heritage trees, and 3. promoting cultural tourism activities in the area.

EFFICIENCY OF WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE PHRA PIMOL IRRIGATION AND MAINTENANCE PROJECT AREA, NAKHON PATHOM PROVINCE

Jirattikarn Suksing — 2025-01-01

This research aims to: 1. study the factors influencing the efficiency of water management in the Phra Phimon Irrigation and Maintenance Project area, Nakhon Pathom Province, 2. identify predictive factors for water management in the project area, and 3. provide recommendations for improving water management in the Phra Phimon Irrigation and Maintenance Project area. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach. For the quantitative part, the study targeted 93 personnel working within the project area. A sample size of 48 was determined using the G*power program through stratified random sampling, with a margin of error set at 0.05. The qualitative part involved in-depth interviews with 17 key informants.

The findings revealed the following: 1. The overall level of factors influencing water management efficiency, particularly in terms of staff participation, was high. 2. Two factors were found to predict the efficiency of water management in the Phra Phimon Irrigation and Maintenance Project area. These factors significantly correlated with the assessment of water management efficiency, with a multiple correlation coefficient of 0.801. Together, they accounted for 64.1% of the variance in water management efficiency, with statistical significance at the 0.00 level. 3. Recommendations for improving water management efficiency include enhancing various aspects of water management, particularly during crises, integrating technology into management processes, developing personnel, and improving communication efficiency.

FINANCIAL SUSTAINABLE GAY RETIREES: CONSTRUCTING MEANING THROUGH COUNTER DISCOURSE TO CAPITALISM

Chaiwoot Paksuthiphol — 2025-01-01

This research aims to explore the experiences of retired gay individuals in defining financial sustainability through their resistance to capitalist discourse. The study adopts a qualitative approach within a critical paradigm. Data were collected using narrative inquiry through semi-structured interviews. Participants were purposively selected through a gatekeeper and self-identified as gay, aged 65 and above, with the ability to articulate the concept of financial sustainability. A total of 15 participants were involved. Data analysis was conducted through thematic analysis, constructing narratives grounded in the theoretical framework of Michel Foucault’s concept of identity formation. This framework posits that identity is shaped by the power of knowledge operating through discursive practices, meaning that identity is forged through resistance to dominant discourses.

Research findings reveal that the meaning of financial sustainability, constructing through counter discourse to capitalism, has four key aspects: gay men with financial independence, gay men who establish themselves as the family's pillar, gay men with career choices of work, and gay men with interpersonal relationships at work.

THE PROMOTING THE WELL-BEING OF THE ELDERLY IN URBAN COMMUNITIES IN BANGKOK

Anchalee Srikolchan — 2025-01-01

This research aims to: 1. Study the context of community participation, 2. Identify appropriate activities, and 3. Propose suitable approaches to promote the well-being of elderly individuals in urban communities. The study is descriptive research employing qualitative data collection techniques. The primary research tool is a semi-structured interview. Data were gathered through interviews with 45 elderly individuals aged 60 and above, as well as 150 individuals aged 45-60 who are preparing for ageing. Content analysis was used to interpret the data.

The findings provide insights into community engagement, suitable activities, and strategies for enhancing elderly well-being, contributing to the development of sustainable and inclusive aging policies within urban areas. The research findings reveal that the urban community context affecting elderly well-being in Thailand includes: 1. community participation in creating an ecosystem suitable for the elderly, 2. the physical characteristics of urban environments impacting health, such as developing green spaces and organizing activities suited to limited spaces, and 3. accessible and comprehensive healthcare services. Health-promoting activities for the elderly in urban areas cover four aspects: 1. physical health, 2. mental and emotional well-being, 3. cognitive health, and
4. social health. The appropriate strategies for enhancing community participation in promoting elderly health include: 1. urban space management, 2. access to healthcare and welfare services, 3. support for social inclusion and community engagement, and 4. technology for the elderly.

DEVELOPMENT OF A FORMAT FOR ORGANIZING BUDDHIST TOURISM FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES IN PHITSANULOK PROVINCE

Phrakrupalad Suwattanabuddhikun (Suthep Suthevamethi) — 2025-01-01

This research article has the objective 1. identify a prototype area, 2. synthesize and develop through participatory action research, and 3. propose a model for organizing Buddhist tourism festival activities in Phitsanulok Province. A qualitative research approach was employed, including workshops with 14 community leaders and representatives, as well as focus group discussions with 10 experts. Content analysis was used for qualitative data, while quantitative data were collected through questionnaires on satisfaction levels from 400 residents in Mueang Phitsanulok District and analyzed using percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

The findings revealed the following: 1. The prototype area exhibited readiness across six dimensions, aligning with the six principles of Saraniyadhamma, fostering shared vision and goals focused on sustainable knowledge and faith development for Buddhist festival activities among local communities. 2. The discovered process comprised four stages (Initiate, Act, Certify, Reflect) and seven steps: 1. Initiate, involving Engage (understanding the context and root causes), Map (setting shared goals), and Plan (assessing community potential); 2. Act, including Organize (resource allocation and activity planning) and Work (execution within a suitable timeframe); 3. Certify, involving Evaluate (assessing satisfaction and participation); and 4. Reflect, comprising Reflect (identifying changes, understanding cultural differences, and building networks at individual, organizational, and community levels). 3. The researcher and the prototype community collaboratively designed the inaugural "1st Phra Si Ratanathat Buddhist Robe Offering Ceremony." The evaluation results showed a high level of overall satisfaction ( =4.168, S.D.=0.243). Lessons learned were synthesized into the SAMOKHAE for JI-MUEANG framework, emphasizing collaboration for sustainable Buddhist tourism festival development in Phitsanulok Province.

THE ROLE OF THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL UNDER THE 2017 CONSTITUTION IN PROMOTING POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF DISADVANTGED GROUPS

Teep Ransanoi — 2025-01-01

This research aims to: 1. Study the role and operations of the Political Development Council under the 2017 Constitution in promoting political participation of disadvantaged groups. 2. Analyze obstacles and challenges in political participation faced by disadvantaged groups including disabled people, elderly, low-income individuals, and minorities. 3. Propose guidelines for developing the Political Development Council's role in promoting political participation of disadvantaged groups. This qualitative research uses documentary research methodology, collecting data from primary and secondary sources with content analysis.

The research findings were found that 1. the Political Development Council's role was terminated by NCPO Order 71/2016, creating a gap in promoting participation of disadvantaged groups. Although the 2017 Constitution established rights protection foundations in Articles 27, 70, and 78, enforcement remains limited. 2. Key obstacles for disadvantaged groups, besides physical and information access barriers, include attitudinal problems where they feel their voices are unheard. Integration between agencies and local mechanisms remains inefficient. 3. Important development guidelines include: amending Election Law Articles 28 and 30 to increase accommodation measures, establishing representative quotas in committees, developing easily accessible communication channels, and establishing local participation promotion centers with effective monitoring systems. However, promoting political participation of disadvantaged groups still faces challenges in inter-agency integration, reaching remote areas, and resource limitations. This requires developing an ecosystem conducive to participation in terms of infrastructure, information, and participation mechanisms through cooperation from all sectors.

DEVELOPMENT OF PLATFORM TOOL FOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT IN COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING

Danucha Saleewong — 2025-01-01

This research article has the objective 1. design and develop a learning assessment tool platform for competency-based learning, and 2. experiment with the use of the platform. The sample consisted of two groups: 400 educators, including 300 from pilot schools in Pathum Thani Province and 100 from Rajabhat University, and five experts. Research instruments included: 1. the competency-based learning assessment platform, 2. a quality assessment form for the platform, 3. a satisfaction and opinion questionnaire, and 4. a platform efficiency evaluation form. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation.

The findings revealed that: 1. the learning assessment platform for competency-based education was successfully developed and made available at https://evapowertool.com/. The platform comprised four key sections: 1. understanding assessment and evaluation for competency-based learning, 2. tools for assessment and evaluation, 3. additional learning resources, and 4. supplementary materials. The overall platform quality was rated at the highest level. 2. Educators expressed the highest levels of satisfaction and positive opinions toward the platform, while experts evaluated the platform’s efficiency at the highest level.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF BOARD GAME LEARNING MEDIA IN SOCIAL STUDIES TO ENHANCE ANALYTICAL THINKING SKILLS AND LEARNING ENGAGEMENT OF PRE-SERVICE SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHERS

Pichart Kaewpuang — 2025-01-01

This research article has objectives 1. Develop board game learning media in social studies to enhance analytical thinking skills and learning engagement of pre-service social studies teachers, 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of board game learning media in social studies on analytical thinking skills and learning engagement of pre-service social studies teachers. The samples used in the research were 30 pre-service social studies teachers who studied in social studies program, College of Teacher Education, Phranakhon Rajabhat University.

The instruments used in the research consisted of lesson plans using board game learning media; an analytical thinking skill test, and a learning engagement evaluation. The experiment was conducted for 8 weeks. The data were analyzed by arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and t-test.

The research results revealed that: 1. Board game learning media in social studies consisted of six key components: 1. board game title, 2. objectives, 3. materials and objects, 4. rules of playing the game, 5. players, and 6. Stories. The quality of board game learning media in social studies was at the highest level, and had an efficiency (E1/E2) of 81.11/83.44, which followed criteria 80/80; 2. Pre-service social studies teachers who learned board game learning media in social studies had higher analytical thinking skills and learning engagement than pre-experiment at a statistically significant level of 0.05.

THE INFLUENCES OF COMPETENCY, ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT, AND JOB SATISFACTION ON THE EFFICIENCY OF AIRPORT GROUND STAFF IN THAILAND’S LOW-COST AIRLINES

Korawin Kungwola — 2025-01-01

This research article has the objective 1. assess the levels of competency, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and employee efficiency. 2. investigate the direct and indirect influences of these factors on employee efficiency. 3. develop a comprehensive model to illustrate these relationships. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods research design was adopted, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative research involved distributing surveys to 300 airport ground staff of low-cost airlines in Thailand. Qualitative research involved semi-structured interviews with 10 key informants. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Findings revealed 1. high overall levels: the overall average of competency, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and employee efficiency among airport ground staff in Thai low-cost airlines were found to be high (average = 3.99). Competency has the highest average rating (4.44), followed by employee efficiency (4.06), job satisfaction (3.84), and organizational commitment (3.64). 2. significant relationships: this study found significant relationships among competency, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and employee efficiency. Competency and organizational commitment were found to have a positive influence on job satisfaction, which in turn had a direct effect on employee efficiency. Additionally, both competency and organizational commitment indirectly influenced employee efficiency through job satisfaction.
3. ACAW Model was developed based on the identified direct and indirect effect, as well as the combined influence of latent variables that interact with each other. This model provides a visual representation of the complex relationships between the four key factors. The study highlights the importance of human capital in the aviation industry and provides valuable insights for policymakers and industry practitioners, emphasizing the need to invest in employee development and foster a positive work environment to enhance employee efficiency and organizational performance.

GUIDELINES FOR ESTABLISHING A BUDDHIST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE IN THAILAND

Phrakhrusuthi Kittibundit (Krisada Kittisobhano) — 2025-01-01

This research aimed to study the principles and methods of temple property management, develop a prototype for the Buddhist Property Management Office, and formulate policy recommendations. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) methodology comprising seven stages, beginning with document analysis and in-depth expert interviews, followed by a survey of 500 monks and citizens, development of guidelines and prototypes through focus group discussions and pilot implementation in selected temples, and finally, policy recommendation formulation.

The findings revealed that: 1. Temple property management principles should integrate Buddhist teachings, legal frameworks, and modern management principles, with management methods divided into four main areas: financial and accounting management, land and building management, religious property management, and revenue and benefit management. 2. The development of the Buddhist Property Management Office prototype proposed establishing provincial-level agencies under the supervision of the Provincial Sangha Office, with internal operations divided into four main departments. 3. Policy recommendations were categorized into three areas: policies for the Sangha focusing on improving administrative structure and governance, policies for the government emphasizing legal reform and academic support, and policies for the public sector emphasizing community participation and constructive oversight. Implementation should be conducted systematically and adapted appropriately to each local context.