Guideline for the development of Participatory Database for Management of Collaborative Paddy Farming at Makluamai Sub-District, Sungneon District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

           This research has the objective to study the context and use of the database for the management of paddy farming. Moreover, this data has been created a guideline for designing a participatory management project to develop a database system for paddy farming group in Makluamai sub-district, Sung Noen district, Nakhon Ratchasima province. This research uses the concept of participatory action research (PAR). The researchers divided research participants into three groups which were 1) 30 participants who are members and committee of the collaborative paddy farming group 2) 8 government personnels in relevant areas, and 3) 7 researchers participating in sub-research projects, which are a total of 45 participants. Data were collected using field surveys, in-depth interviews, group interviews, and knowledge sharing. The data were analyzed using qualitative data analysis. Data analysis has been collected and carried out to design and develop a database for Guidelines for the development of participatory database for the management of the collaborative paddy farming. The findings of the research were as follows,

          The collaborative paddy farming group in Makluamai sub-district, Sung Noen district, Nakhon Ratchasima province has been supported to carry out collaborative paddy farming from 2015 up to the present. The group has produced 105 Khao Dawk Mali for consumption, paddy-selling. The government database system used consists of the Big Farm Support Database Project and Cooperatives and the Central Farmer Registration Database which are from the Department of Agriculture Extension, Ministry of Agriculture. For the groups’ management, data are not yet accessible and only district agricultural officials and assistant farm managers can extract information from the database. It is difficult to use the information and prepare reports. Also, there were no archived reports or documents recorded in the group meetings. Farmers are aware of and recognize the need for information to use in future group management. It is found that farmers need a database for water management the most, followed by a cost management database to help improve the efficiency and decision-making in rice cultivation. Guidelines for the development of participatory database for management of collaborative paddy farming at Makluamai Sub-district, Sungneon District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province consists of 1) build understanding and awareness of the benefits of using the database system, 2)  promote participation in the development and use of the database, 3) support and information technology systems that support the use of the database,               4) development of a database system following application requirements, and 5) build confidence in the use of technology.