Development of agricultural learning activities by schools under the Chiang Mai primary educational service area offices

Abstract

This research aims to explore the development process of agricultural learning activities in schools under the Chiang Mai Primary Education Area Office. It analyzed the extent of local community involvement and proposed ways to promote community participation in this development process. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving interviews with school administrators, teachers responsible for activities, and community representatives from the school board, totaling 615 participants (205 per group). The survey of the development process revealed that most agricultural activities focused on crop growing and animal husbandry. The average duration of these activities was six years, and schools had policies on agriculture, livelihoods, and life skills development aligned with NEDA’s four aspects. Approximately 51.2% of the sample schools reported high levels of success based on learner competency, morality, ethics, and responsibility, as well as achievements such as the Honest School, Moral School, and Model School for Curriculum Development awards. The study found substantial community participation in the development of school agricultural learning activities. Factors significantly influencing participation included the experience and opportunities of community representatives in development activities.

The findings suggest guidelines to enhance community participation, including building good relationships with diverse ethnic groups, involving the public in organizing activities through co-thinking and decision-making, supporting and cooperating in control and monitoring, and fostering home-to-school and school-to-home interactions to promote community understanding of the school