THE DEVELOPMENT OF BAN MAP CHAN COMMUNITY, MUEANG RAYONG DISTRICT, RAYONG PROVINCE FOR COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT AND LOCAL WISDOM MODEL

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. To examine the existing conditions of community management and local wisdom at Ban Map Chan village, 2. To enhance the community management and local wisdom practices at Ban Map Chan, and 3. To transform Ban Map Chan into a model community for effective community management and local wisdom preservation. The study utilized a qualitative research approach, collecting data through in-depth interviews with 25 key informants who were purposefully selected from four groups: community leaders, local wisdom keepers, residents, and academicians. Additionally, focus group discussions were held with 10 participants who were experts from the same stakeholder groups.

The findings showed that the community had several notable strengths, including strong leadership, distinctive water retention dam wisdom, active community collaboration, and well-established network partnerships. However, challenges existed in transmitting traditional knowledge to younger generations and securing adequate funding. While the community benefited from opportunities in ecotourism and technological advancement, it also faced threats from climate change impacts and out-migration of working-age population. The community development process followed the AIC model framework. In the Appreciation phase, data were gathered and SWOT analysis was conducted. The Influence stage involved organizing knowledge-sharing forums and encouraging community participation. The Control phase focused on establishing mutual agreements and creating monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The research demonstrated that the community successfully elevated itself to model status by implementing the four Iddhipada principles. Through Chanda, they fostered local pride and developed a shared vision. Viriya was evident in setting ambitious yet achievable goals and creating detailed action plans. Citta manifested through cultivating collective consciousness and strengthening community bonds. Finally, Vimamgsa was applied by developing systematic analytical thinking and establishing learning mechanisms from past experiences, ultimately leading to sustainable community development.