The Development of a Local Curriculum to Enchaning Local Guides in Ecotourism and Agriculture in Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat
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Abstract
This research used research and development and mixed-method approach with the following objectives 1) To survey ecotourism and agricultural tourism sites in Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. 2) To study and evaluate the potential for ecotourism and agricultural tourism in Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. And 3) To develop a local curriculum to enhance ecotourism and agricultural tourism guide skills in Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.The sample and data collection involved government agencies, private sectors, communities, and tourists in the tourism sites of Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. A total of 400 sets of questionnaires were used to survey and assess the potential, and 18 in-depth interviews were conducted. The data were analyzed to calculate the percentage, mean, standard deviation, and sample group for curriculum testing, which included local students. The curriculum and activity set's efficiency were assessed using the E1/E2 test. The research was found that 1) The tourist attractions in Nopphitam District are diverse and distinctive. Eight locations were selected for the survey: Krung Nang Waterfall, Khuam Nu Learning Center, Hong Cave, Khao Chang Lon Viewpoint, Khao Lek Viewpoint, Krung Ching Hot Springs, Krung Ching Waterfall, and Khlong Klai Rafting. 2) The potential assessment from tourists at eight locations in Nopphitam District showed an overall average score of 3.81, which is at a high level. This led to the development of a local curriculum to enhance ecotourism and agricultural tourism guide skills. And 3) The curriculum's efficiency was determined to be E1/E2 = 80/80, which is equivalent to 81.50/84.00, meeting the specified efficiency criteria. The average test scores of the local curriculum's knowledge before and after its implementation showed a statistically significant difference at the .05 level. The average efficiency and suitability ratings of the curriculum, based on the opinions of the instructors, were overall at the highest level.
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References
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