The Scenario of a Learning City Model Based on the Lifelong Learning Concept to Develop the Active Aging of Thai Elderly

Abstract

     This article presents the results of qualitative research, applying the future studies concept of future research techniques. The research aimed: 1) to analyze and synthesize the phenomenon of a learning city based on the lifelong learning concept for the development of active aging both in Thailand and foreign countries; 2) to create the scenario of a learning city model based on the lifelong learning concept for the development of Thai active aging within the next decade (2013-2023) and set up the strategies to put the learning city model into practice; and 3) to examine and evaluate the learning city model. The research was conducted using document studies, good case studies, scenario planning, group discussion, and scenario evaluation using an evaluation form. It was found that the learning city model included 5 essential elements: 1) principles of a learning city involving lifelong learning and a community based on development to support the elderly to empower themselves in terms of health promotion, social participation, and security promotion through learning activities and to integrate learning of intergenerational relations; 2) elements of a learning city including learners, learning organizers, body of knowledge, learning activities, learning atmospheres, learning networks, knowledge management, strategies, public policies and development targets, committees, and a national lifelong learning network; 3) learning processes of a learning city consisting of non-formal and informal education; 4) operational processes of a learning city based on community-based development; and 5) the strategies of putting a learning city model into practice which comprise specifying public policies and knowledge management to integrate into a national learning network and allocating resources for learning city development based on the lifelong learning concept for active Thai aging to create personnel, community, and the network at the national level.