An Assessment of Community Potential and Strategic Development Directions Toward a Strong Community of Ban Huai Cho Tai, Mae Kha Subdistrict, Fang District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were: 1) to assess the potential of the community and
2) to study guidelines for development toward community empowerment in Ban Huai Cho Tai, Mae Kha Subdistrict, Fang District, Chiang Mai Province. The research population consisted of 206 household representatives, with a purposive sampling of 40 participants. Data were collected through questionnaires and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using mean values, standard deviations, and content analysis. The findings revealed that community potential in four dimensions was assessed as follows: community administration and management were at the highest level, with a mean of 4.45; local wisdom was at a good level, with a mean of 3.98; livability was also at a good level, with a mean of 3.96; and income generation and employment were at a good level, with a mean of 3.51. Approaches to strengthening the community included: promoting the conversion of organic waste into compost for agricultural use; encouraging organic farming to create added value; upgrading local products in terms of both quality and marketing to enhance the grassroots economy; integrating technology through online platforms and modern innovations accessible to community members; and accelerating the transfer of local wisdom from the elderly to younger generations through community learning centers.