Development of Digital Cultural Heritage Archives of the Ban Khok Phra Community, Nong Phluang Subdistrict, Chakkarat District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the cultural heritage information of the Ban Khok Phra community and 2) develop a digital cultural heritage database of Ban Khok Phra, Nong Phluang Subdistrict, Chakkarat District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. A mixed-method approach was employed, collecting qualitative data through interviews with 17 key informants, including community leaders, local experts, and representatives of relevant agencies. Data was analyzed using content analysis. The digital database quality was evaluated by five experts with at least five years of experience in relevant fields, selected through purposive sampling to reflect the actual conditions of digital cultural heritage database development. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

The research findings revealed two categories of cultural heritage: 1) tangible heritage, including the ancient Ubosot of Wat Khok Phra and ancient Buddha statues; and 2) intangible heritage, comprising 1) local wisdom in crafting bamboo fish traps, chicken cages, bamboo hammocks, and reed mats; 2) performing arts such as Ton drum performances; 3) local cuisine including, Bon curry, Khi Lek curry, Hua Tan curry, Tan dessert, and Dog Fart dessert; 4) cultural traditions such as boat racing and the Nang Dong ghost play; and 5) beliefs and rituals, including the Grandfather Spirit shrine worship and pole hugging. The evaluation of the digital cultural heritage database showed high performance in design and content areas, while searchability and usability were rated at the highest level.