Guidelines for Knowledge Development to Transform Community Mindsets amid Changes in Na Siao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province

Abstract

The development of knowledge and the transformation of community mindsets amid changes in Na Siao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province aimed to: (1) examine the existing knowledge of the community amid changes; and (2) identify guidelines for knowledge development to promote behavioral change. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Phase 1 of the study included a population of 1,864 households, with a sample size of 329 people. Phase 2 involved in-depth interviews with 12 key informants, including community leaders and residents from 8 villages in Na Siao Subdistrict. Data were analyzed using statistical methods, including frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, with statistical significance set at the 0.05 level, as well as descriptive analysis.   

         The research results revealed the following:

         The first objective was to assess the existing knowledge of the community amid changes in Na Siao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province. Overall, the community’s existing knowledge was at a moderate level. When analyzed by specific domains, the existing knowledge related to health was high, followed by the social environment, which were also high, while the knowledge of economic environment was at a moderate level.

         The second objective was to identify guidelines for knowledge development to promote behavioral change in Na Siao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province. Regarding social environment, knowledge should be developed to enable the community to anticipate and address issues arising from both natural and human-made environmental challenges. In terms of economic environment, emphasis should be placed on creating added value from community resources in order to generate income through a circular economy within the community, which can expand outward and adapt dynamically to changing economic conditions. For community development management, community leaders, public representatives, and leaders of various groups should demonstrate an understanding of community management principles and highlight to community members the importance and benefits of participating in the community development management process. Regarding democratic governance, awareness should be promoted among community members regarding their rights and responsibilities while ensuring respect for the rights of others. Community members are expected to respect community rules and regulations, understand how to access public services, and utilize the justice system. Regarding community health, knowledge and understanding of the causes of physical and mental health problems arising from social changes, unhealthy dietary habits, and substance use behaviors that affect overall health and society should be promoted. Finally, for modern information technology, public knowledge should be enhanced to support adaptation, raise awareness of technological risks, and encourage appropriate and safe use of technology.