The State and Development of the Knowledge System in Communication Arts, Journalism, and Mass Communication in Thailand

Abstract

This study aims to understand the communication knowledge system within the context of structural transformations in Thai higher education. The objectives are to examine the challenges and current status of knowledge management systems, knowledge structures, and knowledge ecosystems in communication, journalism, and mass communication in Thailand, as well as to develop guidelines for enhancing these systems through the participation of the academic community. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including document analysis of research outputs and theses in communication studies and focus group discussions with participants from three types of higher education institutions: research universities, Rajabhat universities, and private universities. The findings reveal that the communication knowledge system in Thailand comprises three main dimensions: knowledge structure, knowledge ecosystem, and knowledge management system. The knowledge structure is characterized by interdisciplinarity and fragmentation, with variations across institutional contexts in terms of knowledge producers, research directions, and funding sources. Meanwhile, the knowledge ecosystem lacks systematic integration, and knowledge management systems face limitations in support mechanisms and resource accessibility. In addition, most research outputs are published at the national level, while international publications remain limited. Policy recommendations emphasize the development of a national-level knowledge infrastructure, the reform of funding mechanisms to better align with communication studies, the strengthening of institutional research support systems, and the consolidation of communication studies as a distinct academic discipline in order to enhance the coherence, impact, and sustainability of Thailand’s communication knowledge system..