Development of participatory community-level agricultural learning center A case study : Suea Kok Sub-District agricultural group, Wapi Pathum District, Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) Examine the general background of the community, (2) Study community participation in the development of an agricultural learning center, and (3) Investigate problems and suggestions related to community participation in the development of an agricultural learning center. This study involved a sample of 268 farmers selected from a total of 815 farmers residing in a community with agricultural land. The sampling method used was stratified random sampling, proportional to the number of farmers in each of the five villages. Data collection tools included questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Statistical analyses included frequency distribution, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, and content analysis. The findings revealed that: (1) The majority of the respondents were female, with an average age of 35-45 years with major educational attainment of the secondary level (Grade 9 or Vocational Certificate). The average farm size was 5-10 rai per family with average household labor force of 1.40 individuals. The primary occupation was agriculture, followed by livestock farming. The average annual income from agriculture ranged from 100,001 to 150,000 baht, while the average income from livestock farming was between 15,000 and 25,000 baht. Income from other sources averaged 10,000 baht per year. (2) The overall level of community participation in the development of the agricultural learning center was 82.00%, which was a high level of participation. And (3) Problems and suggestions regarding community participation in the development of the agricultural learning center could effectively be addressed through collaboration between farmer representatives in the community, various agencies, and community members. This collaboration leads to the formation of networks and the establishment of a tangible learning center, contributing to the improved quality of the community. The details of the five individual aspects are rated at a moderate level, while the overall assessment is at high level, respectively.