The Development Process of Village Health Volunteers’ Competencies for Basic Photography in Health Communication with Smartphones for Karen Communities, Highland Areas

Abstract

Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) is a crucial mechanism that closely engages and reaches out to the residents in remote highland areas. VHVs require competence in health communication with local public health officers. This research aims to: 1) develop basic courses for capturing still and motion images using smartphones and 2) examine the outcomes of the imaging course through qualitative research. The study is divided into three phases: 1) data collection from documents and community surveys; 2) designing and developing the course; and 3) conducting practical training for a target group of 30 individuals from 10 sub-districts across 3 districts in Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces. Research tools include interviews on course requirements, pre- and post-training practical tests, performance assessments, knowledge and application evaluations, and group discussions. The findings reveal several key points regarding the imaging course: 1) familiarity with technology is essential; 2) enhancement of smartphone skills is needed; 3) improvement in imaging skills is essential; 4) there must be emphasis on practical abilities; and 5) enhancement of etiquette in capturing and disseminating images is required. The course comprises three activities: 1) pre- and post-training skill assessments, 2) training content, and 3) practical exercises. Results indicate a 42.1% improvement in VHVs’ development, categorized as intermediate. Participants are classified into three groups: high-level development (5 individuals), moderate-level development (23 individuals), and low-level development (2 individuals). Due to differences in age, gender, education, and Thai language proficiency among VHSs participants, community teachers are recommended to assist in project mentoring. The findings suggest the potential for extending this project’s impact into future public health policies for organizations in the region.