The Evaluation of Distance Learning Model through Group Process on Food Safety and Organic Agriculture for the Well-Being of the Elderly in Nonthaburi and Chonburi Provinces, Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this research were 1) to experiment with distance learning management through group processes on food safety and organic agriculture towards the well-being of the elderly. 2) to assess the distance learning model. The populations were (1) the elderly people participated in the program from Nonthaburi and Chonburi provinces consisted of six groups of 20 persons per group, totaling 120 people. Quantitative data were collected from the entire population by using an interview form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-tests. (2) Representative of the elderly and experts in geriatrics, distance education and food safety, and organic agriculture consisted of 21 persons. The purposive sampling was used. Qualitative data was collected using focus group and analyzed by content analysis. The results showed that 1) The experimental management of learning consisted of Phase 1 – Comprehension, and Phase 2 - Access and Development. 2) The assessment of distance learning model found that (1) the appropriate of distance and group process learning model was a model with flexibility, blended informal learning, learners-centered learning, spatial suitability, and linking farming to the health care of the elderly. The elements of learning management model were considered to be appropriate at the highest level in three areas: curriculum standards, objectives, and learning media, and there was a high level of appropriateness in two areas: the course content, and the course's learning management process. (2) Appropriate learning methods and learning media were experimental and hands-on focus, field trips as early activities, supportive learning managers, voluntary participation of learners, and the appropriateness and accessibility of media to the elderly. (3) There was the highest level of change from learning at individual, group, community, and agency level. (4) There was a significant difference at the 0.05 level between mean pre- and post-test knowledge scores of elderly.