The Guideline for Enhancing Awareness of Good Agricultural Practice by Using Non-Formal and Informal Education Principles

Abstract

          This research aims to 1) study the participation status of farmers in informal education activities and self-directed learning in safe agricultural practices, 2) study the awareness status of safe agricultural practices among farmers, and 3) develop guidelines to enhance awareness of safe agricultural practices using principles of informal education and self-directed learning. This survey-based research collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was collected through surveys of 276 farmers in the community of Ban Namsod, Thung Chang District, Nan Province, using systematic sampling. Qualitative data was collected through interviews with 7 representatives of organizations involved in informal education and agricultural practices. The data was analyzed descriptively using frequency and percentage, then linked the quantitative data to develop quality-oriented guidelines, which were confirmed by stakeholders. The research findings revealed that:
           1) participation in informal education activities was mainly through short-term training and self-directed learning via video clips. 2) The awareness level of safe agricultural practices among farmers in the highland areas was high in terms of knowledge and attitude, while behavior was moderate. 3) Proposed guidelines for enhancing awareness of safe agricultural practices, using principles of informal education and self-directed learning, should prioritize practical training activities, volunteer activities, and informal discussion activities to foster collaborative learning in safe agricultural practices.