Research Directions on the South Regional Literature in 2 decades (2540-2560)

Abstract

This Research article aimed to research direction on local literature in southern Thailand during the two decades (1997-2017) that assembled a set of graduate-level abstracts and full-text publications were examined, conducted during 1997-2017 in reference to local literature. 133 studies were found with descriptive analyses. The findings revealed the 24 education institutions in reference to local literature in Southern Thailand, under 25 courses were in reference to the matter. The collected data fell under 10 categories: (1) fiction; (2) folk chant; (3) tale and religion; (4) proverb and wise saying; (5) textbook, learning material, and scripture; (6) folklore; (7) tradition and ritual; (8) Nirat (a journey composition); (9) auspicious occasion, foresight, and physiognomy; and (10) mixed literature. Among the 10, “tale and religion” was the most emphasized category in research. In addition, the study discovered 12 research concepts including (1) literary elements; (2) aesthetics; (3) society; (4) comparison; (5) Buddhist philosophy; (6) modern theory; (7) development of learning innovations; (8) language; (9) folklore; (10) culture and wisdom; (11) peace and kshanti (Sanskrit for patience), forbearance and forgiveness; and (12) communication. The most academically mentioned concepts were “literary elements”. This study discovered that the research direction on local literature has been rather non progressive. The researchers were too preoccupied with literary analyses as oppose to finding connections of the social contexts or theoretical explanations for the literary works. Similarly, there has been an excessive focus on documentary studies as opposed to qualitative research or whatever else. Based on this notion, future studies should employ diverse research methodologies with an extra effort for social integration, social participation, group work, and interdisciplinary research.