Community-Based History Learning Activities to Develop Sukhothai History Youth Communicators among Primary 4 Students in Schools within the Arunothai Network, Sukhothai Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to develop learning activities on Sukhothai history using a community-based approach to cultivate Sukhothai historical interpreters among primary school’s year 4 students in schools within the Arunothai Network, Sukhothai Province. This qualitative research study involves key informants: students, historical experts, and experienced teachers. The research scope is Kong Krailat District, Sukhothai Province. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis through descriptive recording and data triangulation to ensure the reliability of the data collection methods. The research findings indicate that the current state and challenges in learning management include students' lack of interest in studying history, an extensive amount of content, and a shortage of teachers with expertise in history, leading to teachers' lack of preparedness. Consequently, the researcher developed community-based history learning activities to cultivate young Sukhothai historical interpreters among primary school’s year 4 students in schools within the Arunothai Network, Sukhothai Province, under the "Telling the Story of Sukhothai City" activity. This activity aims to enable students to learn and develop as young Sukhothai historical interpreters through learning activities designed for this purpose. The research concludes that the "Lao Rueang Mueang Sukhothai" activity can effectively develop Sukhothai historical interpreters among primary school’s year 4 students and promotes active learning. This empowers students to independently develop storytelling skills, resulting in happiness and firsthand experience in studying Sukhothai history using a community-based approach. This activity facilitates learning, leading to genuine learning and increased importance placed on history learning by students.