A Research Work of Lecturers Teaching Undergraduate Students in the Vocational Education Institute, Central Region 3: A case study of Prachinburi Technical College

Abstract

This research is qualitative in nature, aiming to 1) study the research activities of instructors teaching undergraduate students at the Central Region 3 Vocational Education Institute, and 2) develop more effective research guidelines for instructors. The methods used include in-depth interviews and observations, collecting data from 9 instructors in 3 fields: Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, and Office Management Technology. The method of triangulation of data sources and data analysis were used.

 The research findings revealed that 1) the institution has policies and programs aimed at supporting instructors' research activities by providing budget assistance for publication, supporting registration and travel expenses for academic presentations, and offering quality assurance assistance before publication. 2) Instructors expressed the need for a team of experts to provide advice and quality checks on research before submission to academic journals. They also want the institution to continuously promote and organize training on research, as well as support for necessary materials, equipment, and instruments for conducting research in each field. 3) The problems and obstacles faced by instructors include heavy teaching workloads, leaving limited time for research, and lack of budget support for research activities. 4) The research development guidelines suggest that the institution should establish clear guidelines, encouraging instructors and students to collaboratively create new research outputs that align with the curriculum development goals. Additionally, support should be provided in selecting appropriate research topics to ensure the production of quality outputs that can be practically utilized. This research can serve as a guideline for improving research support policies in educational institutions. Help elevate the quality of the professor's research and create new knowledge that is beneficial for teaching and learning at the vocational education level.