The Development of Technological Competence for Subdistrict Headman, Village Headmen, Assistant Village Headmen, Subdistrict Clerks, and Subdistrict Medical Practitioners according to the Local Administration Act in MaharajDistrict of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

          Due to the impact of technological changes and innovation development on all sectors of society, including the roles of local administrative officials, this study aims to investigate how these officials, who play a critical role in guiding their communities towards sustainable development within the context of Thailand 4.0, are prepared to use technology. The study sought to reveal their technological capabilities and readiness, which are essential for enhancing their effectiveness in adapting to changes and supporting national development goals efficiently.
          The objectives of this study were: 1) to examine the development of technological competencies among village chiefs, headmen, assistant headmen, village police, and public health officers under the Local Administration Act in Maha Rat District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; 2) to compare these technological competencies based on demographic and socio-economic factors; and 3) to explore strategies for enhancing technological competencies among these roles.
         The research was conducted in two stages. Stage 1 was a quantitative study involving a sample of 133 individuals, selected using purposive sampling. The research tool was a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.81. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation. Stage 2 was a qualitative study involving data from 12 key informants, including members of the sample group and district-level government officials in Maha Rat District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, analyzed through interviews.
          The findings revealed that: 1) the level of technological competency development among village chiefs, headmen, assistant headmen, village police, and public health officers was rated as high; 2) significant variations in technological competencies were observed based on demographic and socio-economic factors. The majority of respondents were female (54.9%), aged between 35-44 years (32.3%), with a high school education or equivalent (39.8%), serving as assistant headmen (42.1%), with 6-10 years of tenure (37.6%), and earning between 8,001 – 10,000 Baht (47.4%); and 3) recommendations for enhancing technological competencies include organizing modern technology training, developing supportive programs, providing necessary tools and budgets for improving data processing, storage, and dissemination, and promoting the use of smartphones along with training in data-related legal issues to improve work efficiency.