Design and Development of an Integrated Learning Management Innovation for Enhancing Welding Skills through user Experience and Self-Directed Learning in Vocational Certificate Programs

Abstract

This research aimed to design, develop, and evaluate an innovative learning management approach that integrates user experience and self-directed learning to enhance the welding skills of students in vocational certificate programs. The study was conducted using the Design Thinking process and consisted of three phases. In Phase 1, the needs assessment was conducted based on user experiences in welding. The sample group included 10 students from the welding program at Kam Muang Vocational College and 5 instructors and experts in welding. The findings revealed that current teaching methods failed to effectively meet student needs due to the lack of accessible, hands-on learning materials. In Phase 2, the design and development phase, the sample included two instructors from Kam Muang Vocational College and Maha Sarakham Technical College, as well as three experts in learning management and content. The developed learning innovation was found to support students’ self-directed learning. In Phase 3, evaluation and reflection were carried out with a group of 20 vocational certificate students and two welding instructors from the aforementioned colleges. The satisfaction evaluation showed an average score of 4.4 out of 5, equivalent to 88.5%, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the learning activity package.