Developing Vocational Skills for Grassroots Communities through Mushroom Processing Based on Local Wisdom and Sufficiency Economy: A Case Study of Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) examine and analyze the contextual conditions of local wisdom–based mushroom processing grounded in the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province; and (2) develop vocational skills for grassroots communities through local wisdom–based mushroom processing under the Sufficiency Economy framework. A mixed-methods research approach was employed using a sequential exploratory design. Qualitative data were first collected to obtain an in-depth understanding of the local context, followed by quantitative data to validate and support the qualitative findings. The conceptual framework was based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and sustainable development principles.

The research was conducted in Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province. The sample consisted of five participants, including community leaders, producers, distributors, and members of mushroom processing groups, selected through purposive sampling. Research instruments included in-depth interviews to explore contextual aspects of local wisdom–based mushroom processing and a satisfaction questionnaire to assess vocational skill development among grassroots communities. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, namely mean and standard deviation, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis and presented descriptively.

The findings indicated that participants reported the highest overall level of satisfaction with the vocational skill development program through local wisdom–based mushroom processing under the Sufficiency Economy framework (𝑥̄ = 4.66). When analyzed by dimension, the highest mean score was found in the application of knowledge (𝑥̄ = 4.66), followed by facilities, duration, food, and public relations (𝑥̄ = 4.65), and instructors (𝑥̄ = 4.63), all of which were rated at the highest level.

The knowledge derived from this research underscores the effective transmission of ancestral local wisdom related to mushroom preservation and processing to contemporary generations, alongside the integration of modern technologies to enhance product quality, standardization, and aesthetic appeal in response to current market demands. This integration contributes to sustainable grassroots economic development and strengthens community resilience within a changing socio-economic context.