A A Research and Development Process of Eco-cultural Products of Bangpakong River Basin Communities, proceeding within the Paradigm of Holistic Development

Abstract

Two objectives of this research were to elaborate the facilitation process appropriate for the development of eco-cultural products, and to explicate the competence and changes found in entrepreneurs after participating in this project. The studies employed qualitative approach in data collecting and analysis regarding 13 participants who had carried out works based on their own proficiency and expertise. The results revealed that out of 13 products, five showed high level of performance, i.e. they could reach level 7 where not only self-reliance and growth but also connection and partnership with civil society are attained, according to the 8 steps of development indicators. Meanwhile, the effective developmental processes were made up of a preparatory process working upon contextual knowing, basic skills training, empathy and participation encouragement, as well as having co-commitments, and a main process which emphasized creating a free open space, cooperation of groups and networks, and giving supports and guidance. Such participatory processes gave rise to outcomes found in entrepreneurs regarding sharing and learning in practices, gaining skills in communication and public speaking, having self-awareness, building empathic relationships, and gaining new perspectives of living and working so that benefiting people and nature in wider scale can be expected.