Social Impacts of Urbanization on communities Surrounding the University of Phayao

Abstract

This research aimed to study social impacts of urbanization on the communities surrounding the University of Phayao, particularly communities Maeka Sub-district, and to rank intensity and severity of problems, capacities and needs of Maeka communities. It employed a qualitative methodology in which documentary research, secondary data collection, and structured interviews were carried out to collect data. Content analysis was employed to analyze data.

This research finds that Maeka Sub-district has been a college town and is becoming more urbanized in all dimensions, including population and ways of life, administrative spheres, economic activities, and infrastructure and environment.  This urbanization results in 24 social impacts.  Regarding their intensity and severity, the most severe negative impact is the garbage problem while the most intense positive impact is the variety of occupations in Maeka.  This study suggests that relevant agencies should collaborate to solve existing problems and systematically develop Maeka.