Public Participation in the Management of Child Development Centers in Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were to: 1) examine the level of public participation in the management of Child Development Centers in Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province; 2) compare factors affecting public participation in the management of Child Development Centers; and 3) investigate guidelines for public participation in the management of Child Development Centers. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative sample consisted of 240 parents whose children attended Child Development Centers in Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province, while 22 key informants were selected for the qualitative phase. Research instruments included questionnaires and interview forms. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and content analysis.

The findings revealed that:

1. The overall level of public participation in the management of Child Development Centers was at the highest level. Among the dimensions of participation, participation in decision-making had the highest mean score, followed by participation in receiving benefits, participation in operational activities, and participation in evaluation, respectively.
2. The comparison of participation factors indicated that individuals of different age groups demonstrated significantly different levels of participation in the management of Child Development Centers at the .05 level. Furthermore, the results of multiple regression analysis revealed that organizational culture was a significant factor influencing public participation at the .01 level (β = 0.418). Organizational culture accounted for 19.20 percent of the variance in public participation (R² = 0.192).
3. Guidelines for enhancing public participation in the management of Child Development Centers should emphasize equality, active listening to public opinions, transparency in management processes, and the development of trust between Child Development Centers and the community. These practices can encourage public involvement in all stages of management and contribute to more effective and sustainable Child Development Center administration.

Keywords: Public Participation; Management; Child Development Center;