THE MODEL OF BUILDING LEARNING CENTER FOR COMMUNITY IDENTITY ON HIGH AREA AT CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to 1. study the identity of communities on highland areas in Chiang Rai Province, 2. develop learning activities related to the creative identity of these communities, and 3. propose the model of learning center for community identity on high area at Chiang Rai province. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative research and action research. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 25 key informants from two villages including Rak Phaendin Village, Moo 15, Tap Tao Subdistrict, Thoeng District, Chiang Rai Province (a Hmong ethnic community), and Yafu Village, a satellite of Huay Mae Sai Village, Moo 11, Mae Yao Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai Province (a Lahu ethnic community).

The research findings are as follows:

1. 1. The study on the identity of highland communities in Chiang Rai Province found that the Hmong ethnic group has a distinct identity in terms of traditions, culture, and way of life, especially the “Hmong New Year,” which is celebrated after the harvest season. For the Lahu ethnic group, their New Year tradition coincides with the Chinese New Year festival. It marks the beginning of a new life and involves rituals such as misfortune cleansing, soul-calling, ancestor worship, and expressing gratitude to elders. These ceremonies incorporate meaningful symbols such as pigs, chickens, eggs, and sticky rice cakes, carried out in a systematic manner that reflects the close relationship between people, spirits, and nature. There are also traditional games including spinning tops and ethnic-style clothing that express pride in their cultural identity.


2. 2. The study on learning activities related to the creative identity of highland communities in Chiang Rai Province revealed that such activities play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local heritage. The development of tradition- and culture-based activities serves as a means of transmitting indigenous knowledge, often conveyed through local dialects and oral traditions. Belief-based activities further foster a deep understanding of spiritual and cultural values, with ritual practices reflecting the community’s creative identity in meaningful ways. Additionally, the development of activities grounded in local wisdom supports intergenerational knowledge transmission in areas such as basketry, blacksmithing, embroidery, and the cultivation of indigenous crops such as upland rice and rotational plants. These practices are complemented by using traditional herbal medicine for health maintenance, highlighting the holistic and sustainable nature of local knowledge systems.