The Development of a Participatory Learning Model for Type 2 Diabetic Patients in a Diabetes School by Community for Community, Trakan Phuet Phon District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

     This action research aimed to develop a participatory learning model for type 2 diabetic patients at a diabetes school by community for community, Trakan Phuet Phon District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. There were two groups of participants 310 type 2 diabetic patients selected by stratified random sampling, and a purposively selected cadre of 18 participants for in-depth interviews and focus groups. The research was conducted between April and November 2025. Data was collected using questionnaires (Cronbach's Alpha=0.93), health status records, in-depth interviews, and focus group guidelines. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests, while qualitative data used content analysis.

     The results showed that previous approaches lacked opportunities for patient expression and personalized care. The developed model consisted of 4 steps 1) engagement in participatory activities, 2) participatory learning processes, 3) continuous follow-up and empowerment, and 4) evaluation and reflective learning. The results showed that most participants had a moderate level of knowledge about complication prevention and diabetes remission (x ̅=7.96, S.D.=1.28 and x ̅=7.74, S.D.=1.36, respectively). Post-participation, the participants' knowledge significantly increased and was accompanied by a significant reduction in HbA1c levels (p-value<.001).