ACCESSING POTENTIALS FOR EDUCATIONAL BIRDING ACTIVITY IN A MEDIUM-SIZED URBAN UNIVERSITY

THE CASE STUDY OF DHURAKIJ PUNDIT UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative methodology with two primary research objectives: 1) to collect data on bird species in Dhurakij Pundit University (DPU) through field survey using standard birdwatching gears over the period of 5 months from January 2024 to May 2024, and 2) to conduct preliminary assessment of DPU, chosen as a case for medium-size urban universities in Thailand, for its potential for conducting educational and beginner birdwatching activities. For this objective, assessment framework was developed by using Thailand’s Bird Watching Standards (Department of Tourism, 2021) as a basis. Additional inputs for improving the assessment framework were obtained through content analysis of structured in-depth interviews with a panel of experts in birdwatching activities. All experts were recruited through snowball sampling method.

Results from the preliminary assessment indicate that Dhurakij Pundit University represents a viable site for educational and beginner birdwatching activities, with its notable potential in the area of site accessibility, supporting facilities, as well as site security and safety management. In terms of natural elements, DPU has plenty of well-design green spaces that are suitable for birds. As the result, the university is home to 36 bird species, fulfilling the minimum requirement for beginner birdwatching as proposed by the expert panel. On the other hand, the results also underscore the necessity for improvement in the area of activity design and nature interpretation skills of bird leaders. Finally, it is recommended that the university provide supports in forming an organization pertaining to birdwatching and other conservation-related activities as part of the Green University Policy.