A participatory learning management model of indigenous knowledge for creative economy of Karen in Thai-Myanmar Border

Abstract

The Karen is the largest hill tribe in Thailand, living in densely forested areas on the Thai-Myanmar border for centuries. This study aims to develop a participatory learning management model of indigenous knowledge for creative economy. The qualitative research purposively selected participants based on a village complex of four Karen major subgroups including Pga K’nyau (White Karen), Pwo (Red Karen), Pa-O (Black Karen), and Kayah (Long Neck Karen). This participatory action research applied three techniques including Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Appreciation Influence Control (AIC), and Future Search Conference (FSC) to provide opportunities for participants to take part in this study. The findings found that a participatory learning management model of indigenous knowledge for creative economy requires knowledge integration and holistic learning processes. The knowledge integration and holistic learning processes must be sustainable in several areas including: being environmentally friendly, building pride, adding values, as well as maintaining identity. This paper offers policy implications on indigenous education.