The Development of Thai Language Learning Activities Using Project-Based Learning to Promote Reading Literacy for Grade 6 Students

Abstract

This study aimed to (1) develop and evaluate the effectiveness of Thai language learning activities using a project-based learning (PBL) approach to promote reading literacy among Grade 6 students based on the 80/80 efficiency criterion, (2) compare students’ reading literacy before and after participating in the PBL-based learning activities, and (3) investigate students’ perceptions toward the PBL-based Thai language learning activities. The research employed a research and development (R&D) methodology consisting of three phases. The sample included 23 Grade 6 students from Prachasarnwitthaya School, Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province, during the second semester of the 2024 academic year, selected through simple random sampling. The research instruments were: (1) Thai language learning activities based on the PBL approach, (2) a reading literacy assessment, and (3) a student opinion questionnaire. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, effectiveness index (E1/E2), and a dependent samples t-test. The results indicated that: 1. The Thai language learning activities based on project-based learning (PBL) to enhance reading literacy among Grade 6 students consisted of four phases: (1) topic selection for the language project, (2) project planning, (3) project implementation, and (4) project presentation and evaluation. The overall appropriateness of the learning activities was rated at the highest level (x̄ = 4.86, S.D. = 0.07). The instructional effectiveness was measured at 80.56/79.44, which meets the established criteria. 2. Students' reading literacy significantly improved after participating in the Thai language learning activities based on project-based learning, with a statistically significant difference at the .05 level. 3. Students' overall opinions toward the implementation of Thai language learning activities based on project-based learning to enhance reading literacy at the Grade 6 level were rated at the highest level (x̄ = 4.52, S.D. = 0.16).