Research Synthesis in A Master’s of Education, Program in Education, Major of Development Education, Faculty of Education, Chiang Mai University

Abstract

This article aims to discuss the main findings of the research synthesis in a master’s of Education, program in Education, major of Development Education (DE), Faculty of Education, Chiang Mai University. Data were collected from 22 theses conducted between 2015 and 2018. The study employs a qualitative method and the concepts of research synthesis and Development Education. The findings reveal that 1) the theses tend toward the qualitative method aiming to study the working process/lesson learned, focusing on social and cultural issues centering in the North, especially Chiang Mai. Additionally, they tend to study in schools and having students as participants. 2) The main research objectives can be grouped into three groups; to study the working process/lesson learned, to develop lesson plans/activity plans and assess the effectiveness, and to survey the social issues. 3. The study shows different degrees of the problem in development and education in Thailand, especially in the North which implies the development process in marginal areas. Furthermore, it signifies that the meaning of DE from the post-WWII is still brought into play although there is evidence to suggest that DE at present should be in line with the postmodernist perspective and critical theory. However, in the future, research to serve the construction of knowledge on DE in Thailand and, at the same time, link closely with the DE movements on the international level should be considered.