THE GUIDELINES FOR PROMOTING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT OF PEOPLE IN THE KHOK SA-ARD SUBDISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANISATION, LAM PLAI MAT DISTRICT, BURIRAM PROVINCE.

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: (1) study the level of public participation in local development; (2) compare public participation in local development according to personal factors; and (3) propose guidelines for promoting public participation in local development in Khok Sa-ard Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, Lam Plai Mat District, Buriram Province.

This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative population consisted of 10,017 people aged 18 years and over who lived in Khok Sa-ard Subdistrict, Lam Plai Mat District, Buriram Province. The sample size was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, resulting in 389 respondents. The qualitative phase involved 32 community leaders who served as key informants. The quantitative research instrument was a five-point Likert scale questionnaire, whereas the qualitative research instrument consisted of in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as the independent-samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis.

The research findings revealed that:

1) Overall, the level of public participation in local development was high. The aspects were ranked in descending order of mean scores as follows: implementation, decision-making, and monitoring and evaluation. The benefit aspect was at a moderate level. 2) There were no statistically significant differences in public participation in local development among people of different genders, occupations, and educational levels. 3) The guidelines for promoting public participation in local development were as follows: (3.1) In terms of decision-making, the Subdistrict Administrative Organisation should develop strategies to encourage people to participate in activities, meetings, or community forums as much as possible, taking into account appropriate timing, convenience for participation, effective communication, and public relations activities to ensure that people are fully informed of and clearly understand the benefits they will receive. (3.2) In terms of implementation, the Subdistrict Administrative Organisation should develop strategies to encourage maximum public participation as representatives or committee members in the implementation of projects and activities. (3.3) In terms of benefits, the Subdistrict Administrative Organisation should organise projects aimed at reducing household expenses and increasing income, with an emphasis on practical application and knowledge development rather than monetary compensation. (3.4) In terms of monitoring and evaluation, the Subdistrict Administrative Organisation should develop strategies to involve citizens as members of monitoring and evaluation committees and conduct public relations activities through diverse, comprehensive, and accessible channels.