A Knowledge Management on Local Wisdom: A Case Study of Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group, Kham Pom Sub-District, Wapi Pathum District, Mahasarakham Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research are to: 1) study the local wisdom of cotton weaving of the Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group, and 2) examine the knowledge management processes related to the local wisdom of cotton weaving of the Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group, located in Kham Pom Subdistrict, Wapi Pathum District, Mahasarakham Province. This qualitative research combines survey methods and document analysis. The key informants include eight government officials, nine community scholars and members of the Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group, and three local leaders from the Ban Non area. The research instruments consist of interviews and observational forms. Data collection involved field visits, utilizing both participatory and non-participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, percentage, and analytical description. The findings reveal that: 1) The local wisdom of cotton weaving in the Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group demonstrates the transmission of cotton weaving knowledge from ancestors, primarily used for producing clothing. All women in the community receive this knowledge transfer, accumulating skills and experiences to achieve proficiency. Over time, they adapt or simplify weaving methods to suit environmental and societal changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of the community. 2) Knowledge management of local wisdom in cotton weaving within the Ban Non Cotton Weaving Group involves a structured process comprising six key steps: defining knowledge, seeking additional knowledge, exchanging knowledge, storing knowledge, transferring knowledge, and applying knowledge.