Guidelines for Public Participation in Local Development of Bang Khru Sub-district, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate (1) public participation, (2) factors affecting public participation, and (3) approaches to public participation in local development in Bang Khru Subdistrict, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach with a sample of 394 participants. A questionnaire was used and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test and one-way ANOVA). Data were collected through interviews with 15 key informants and analyzed using a categorization of primary and secondary themes. The results revealed that (1) Public participation, overall, was at a high level (x̄ = 4.42). This included aspects such as strengthening local ties (x̄ = 4.49), participation in decision-making (x̄ = 4.49), responding to local development needs (x̄ = 4.41), and participation in implementation (x̄ = 4.39). (2) Factors affecting public participation in local development overall were at a high level (x̄ = 4.29), including leadership influence, participation benefits, performance (x̄ = 4.41), and problem-solving (x̄ = 4.39). (3) The key approach to promoting participation is to provide tangible benefits for the public, emphasizing learning, collaborative problem solving, strengthening community capacity for self-reliance, and multi-sectoral collaboration. The results of this research can serve as a guideline for local administrative organizations in designing policies and activities that focus on creating tangible benefits and strengthening leadership roles to promote effective public participation in semi-urban and semi-rural areas.