The Model for the Promotion of Lifelong Learning for Different Ages based on Community Way of Life

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the interaction between groups of people in the community in the collaborative learning of people with different ages, 2) create a model for promoting lifelong learning of people of different ages based on community lifestyle, and 3) experiment the lifelong learning model of people with different ages based on community lifestyle. Researcher used Takhian Luean Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province in this research. The target groups were children, youth, working-age people, and the elderly in 12 villages. The methods used for data collection included group discussions, participant observation, interviews, and in-depth interviews. Data analysis used content analysis, inductive discussion of phenomena, and descriptive presentation. The analysis was conducted both during and after data collection. The statistics used for data analysis included Percentage, Mean, and Standard Deviation.
The research results found that:
1) The study the interaction between groups of people in the community in the collaborative learning of people with different ages in Takhian Luean Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan Province found that there were fewer children and youth, fewer working-age people, and more elderly people. Children and youth lived with the elderly. There were more family gaps, and each family member did not have enough time to take care of each other, most of them had jobs. The culture of dependence on each other was disappearing, and it was replaced by employment. The new generation was not interested in traditions and customs. The elderly stayed home and prepared food for their children and grandchildren. There were fewer activities for all ages, mostly for children. Relationships between generations were reduced, and the generation gap was widening.
2) The model for promoting lifelong learning for people of all ages based on community lifestyle has 8 important components as follows: 1) Creating a vision for learning for people of all ages, 2) Creating a learning atmosphere, 3) Learning resources, 4) Creating cooperation, 5) Learning processes, 6) Using technology for learning, 7) Developing learning activities, and 8) Gathering resources. Five activities including lifelong learning activities for people of all ages including the ‘This House Loves to Plant Vegetables’ activity, the ‘Weaving Wisdom Bonds’ activity, the ‘People of All Ages Care About Health’ activity, the ‘Local Food’ activity, and the ‘Learning Technology’ activity.
3) The results of the experiment using the model of promoting lifelong learning of people in various ages based on the community lifestyle of Takhian Luean Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan Province found that the learning behavior of children and youths are eager to learn and are enlightened (90%). Working-age people are open to learning new things and eager to learn (80%). The elderly are volunteers, sacrifice, and devote both physical and financial strength (90%). People of various ages have the highest level of satisfaction in participating in the activities.