Application of Information Communication Technology to Develop Thai Farmers’ Potentials and Become Smart Farmers
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Abstract
The objectives of this research were to study the context of using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for the development of Thai farmers' potentials to become smart farmers; their communication patterns and propose guidelines of using ICT for the development. It is a qualitative study. In-depth interviews were conducted with 9 key informants who were purposively selected using interview questions. Then, the data were analyzed by means of content and descriptive analysis. Results revealed that most of the smart farmers were male, the average age was 55 years, who finished primary school. Their average family size was 4 members, with average annual income was 200,000-860,000 baht, and an average of 1-10 rai of land with rice planting and gardening. The use of ICT in daily life was mainly through smartphones and tablets. The purpose was for information searching and communication. The main communication channel was the media through people like smart agricultural officers, followed by ICT media. This was done through formal communication, i.e. top to bottom and bottom up followed by horizontal communication and network communication. The communication strategies used were seminars, vocational visits and participation. It was suggested that farmers should use the internet of things (IoT), sensor, big data, geo, drone and robotic systems in developing their potentials and to applying them at work. There needs to be supported from government. Ministry of agriculture and related offices must work cooperatively to implement the policy via ICT application in order to develop their potentials.
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