DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP IN MULTICULTURAL CONTEXTS: DESIGNING LEARNING FOR UNDERSTANDING AND COMMUNICATION

Abstract

This article aims to explore and synthesize scholarly knowledge pertaining to the development of Digital Citizenship within a Multicultural Society under the conditions of the BANI World, with particular emphasis on the interdisciplinary integration of Social Studies and Thai Language pedagogy in Bachelor of Education programs. The article presents a conceptual analysis of the interrelationships among digital citizenship, multicultural society, multicultural education, intercultural communication, and integrated learning. It further demonstrates that Digital Immunity, Cultural Intelligence, and Cultural Adaptability serve as core competencies enabling learners to participate meaningfully and responsibly in an increasingly diverse digital society. Additionally, the article proposes an integrated conceptual framework that elucidates the linkage mechanisms between Social Studies and Thai Language instruction through diversified pedagogical approaches, including Phenomenon-Based Learning, Experiential Learning, and Problem-Based Learning. These approaches collectively demonstrate strong potential for cultivating critical thinking skills, media literacy, and intercultural communication competencies essential for navigating the complexities of the BANI World. The synthesis findings clearly indicate that the interdisciplinary integration of Social Studies and Thai Language pedagogy is not merely an effective instructional strategy, but rather a strategic imperative for preparing next-generation educators to foster quality digital citizens who possess cross-cultural understanding and the capacity to coexist peacefully and sustainably within the global community.