GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING LEARNING SCHOOLS OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS UNDER LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN MAE HONG SON PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) determine the current and desired conditions, and the modified priority needs index, 2) establish guidelines for developing learning schools, and 3) verify the accuracy and appropriateness of the guidelines for developing learning schools. The sample group comprised 144 participants, including school administrators and teachers. The target group consisted of 11 scholars through interviews. Another target group of nine scholars was involved in verifying the accuracy and appropriateness of the developed guidelines. This research employed a mixed-methods approach. The data collection instruments comprised four types: a component synthesis form, a set of questionnaires with the Item–Objective Congruence (IOC) ranging from 0.80 to 1.00, with the reliability coefficient of 0.97 for the current condition, and 0.99 for the desired condition, an interview form, and a focus group discussion record. Quantitative data were analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation and the modified priority needs index. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and summarized descriptively.

 The research findings indicated that: 1) The current condition, both overall and in each aspect, was rated at a high level, and at the highest level for the desired condition. The modified priority needs index, overall, was ranked the top three needs in descending order as follows: Technology Utilization, Mental Models, and Personal Mastery. 2) The guidelines for developing learning schools based on the highest-ranked modified needs index in each aspect are proposed as follows: (1) Personal Mastery: Budget planning should be implemented to support staff participation in training, seminars, or study visits, along with individual development plans. (2) Mental Models: Personnel should be encouraged and supported to analyze their work systematically. (3) Shared Vision: Meetings should be held to plan and set clear goals for the shared vision of the educational institutions. (4) Team Learning: The educational institutions should foster a culture of mutual acceptance and respect. (5) Systems Thinking: Planning meetings should be conducted, along with the development of an operational manuals. (6) Technology Utilization: Modern technological equipment should be adequately provided for practical use. 3) The accuracy and appropriateness of the developed guidelines revealed that all aspects were overall accurate and appropriate, with a 100% approval rating.