Developing Students’ Potential to Be Equipped with Mahidol HIDEF Skills and 21st-Century Learning Skills in Support of the University’s Aspiration to Become a World-Class University

Abstract

This research aimed to study operational problems, supporting factors, and guidelines for enhancing Mahidol University students’ potential in developing Mahidol HIDEF skills and 21st-century learning skills. The sample consisted of 367 undergraduate students in their final year of the 2021 academic year, 23 student affairs personnel, 44 employers of graduates from the 2019–2020 academic years, and 15 administrators and staff from the Division of Student Affairs responsible for organizing Mahidol HIDEF activities. The research instruments included questionnaires and interview forms. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that: 1) Operational Problems: Students participating in online activities demonstrated varying levels of technological literacy, lacked concentration, and had limited opportunities for hands-on learning. The university lacked an authentic student skills assessment tool, and the number of staff responsible for activity organization was insufficient; 2) Supporting Factors: Staff members had a clear understanding of student development policies, and there were adequate activities and facilities that supported student learning; and 3) Guidelines for Development: It is recommended to promote experiential learning, reduce classroom hours while increasing activity-based learning time, integrate activities into the curriculum, develop skills aligned with employer needs, enhance staff understanding of student characteristics, and implement a more learner-centered approach. Overall, the research results can serve as a framework for improving activities and systems that strengthen Mahidol HIDEF skills and 21st-century learning skills among Mahidol University students efficiently and effectively.