Studying the Needs from User Experience in Metal Welding to Develop Metal Welding Skills of Students in Vocational Certificate Programs

Abstract

This research aims to develop student's skills in a vocational certificate program in metal welding by exploring the essential needs arising from the user experience in the welding trade. The study sample includes 10 Khammuang Industrial and Community Education College students, three teachers from various institutions, and two university lecturers. The target group consists of 10 students from Kham Muang Vocational College, 3 instructors from external vocational colleges, and 2 professors from the university. The research methodologies included questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and qualitative data analysis. The study utilized a design-thinking framework encompassing five dimensions: role, emotion, perception, attitude, and behavior. The statistic used in the research is the mean, where the questionnaire that passed the Index of item objective congruence (IOC) assessment by three experts has an item-wise consistency value ranging from 0.60 to 1.00. The findings revealed that the students had insufficient practical training, leading to a lack of technical skills due to time constraints and teaching methods. The substandard quality of work underscored the need to improve teaching methods and use instructional media. The need to improve teaching methods and use instructional media aims to prepare and develop the student's skills, enabling them to become professional and safe practitioners in the welding profession.