Evaluation of the Mind Development Project: Sakkasa-Samadhi Meditation Program, Singburi Provincial Prison, Fiscal Year 2023

Abstract

     This research aimed to: 1. assess the outcomes of the Sakkasa-Samadhi Meditation Program at Singburi Provincial Prison for the fiscal year 2023 and 2. identify issues, suggestions, and recommendations for improving and developing the program. Data were collected from 132 participants selected through simple random sampling employing a questionnaire with a reliability score of 0.89. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis.

     Research findings revealed that: 1. the evaluation of the Sakkasa-Samadhi Meditation Program was, overall, rated at a high level. The assessment ranked from highest to lowest mean scores focused on the following aspects: inputs, outcomes, processes, and context; and 2. for issues and recommendations for the program improvement, there were four issues included: 1) context issue: the hot weather, external noise, and a crowded environment were identified as significant problems. The program should be conducted during the winter season, fans should be installed, and the training area should be restricted to unrelated individuals; 2) input issue: there was overcrowding of participants, unsuitable media, materials, equipment, audio, and visual aids, as well as an insufficient number of facilitators. Improvement of the quality of media, materials, and equipment, as well as reducing the number of participants, should be reconsidered; 3) process issue: the evaluation form had small font sizes, and some participants attended the training involuntarily. The program should redesign the evaluation format, select voluntary participants who are literate, and promote the program in advance; and 4) outcomes issue: the participants had difficulty understanding the training content and lacked engagement. The training programs should be organized continuously to enhance the participants’ understanding and participation.