Developing an e-Learning Model of Rice Farming for Young Farmers in Thailand

Abstract

Developing an e-Learning Model of Rice Farming for Young Farmers in Thailand

The research aims to assess the needs for an e-Learning model of rice farming for young farmers in Thailand, to develop propose the model, and to evaluate the adequacy of the proposed model. First, at the needs assessment phase, we prepared for a questionnaire, and 400 young farmers answered it. For the data analysis of the questionnaire. In addition, the eight best practice farmers in Thailand answered our interview in order to determine the content of the e-Learning model.

Second, at the development phase, 15 specialists expressed their opinions on the components of the model. We constructed an e-Learning model farmers in Thailand answered our interview in order to determine the content of the e-Learning model. based on the results from the needs assessment phase. The proposed e-Learning model consists of five components: 1) context, 2) input, 3) process, 4) output, and 5) feedback. Context includes analysis of learners, analysis of instructors, and analysis of lifelong learning online; input includes philosophy and vision, development of curriculum, development of learning management system (LMS); process includeds production courseware, knowledge transfer, learning through LMS, and evaluation; output includes the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains of young farmers ; feedback was quality assurance system.

Third, at the evaluation phase, five experts evaluated the proposed models. They concluded that the model and its components are appropriately specified.

In conclusion, the model and its components can be suitable and useful for rice farming for young farmers in Thailand, and can enhance the sustainable development of the Thai agriculture community.