COMPONENTS AND GUIDELINES FOR CREATING A HAPPY ORGANIZATION IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION INSTITUTES IN NORTHEASTERN THAILAND UNDER EDUCATIONAL TRANSFORMATION

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Abstract

          This research aimed to 1) analyze the components of a happy organization in Northeastern vocational education institutions under educational disruption situations, and 2) propose guidelines for developing happy organizations in Northeastern vocational education institutions. The study was conducted through documentary research, theoretical review, and empirical data collection using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 10 successful administrators of vocational education institutions in Northeastern Thailand. The administrators possessed significant characteristics, including visionary leadership, transformational leadership, communication skills, participatory management, and the promotion of a positive working atmosphere. Subsequently, a five-rating scale questionnaire on organizational happiness was developed and administered to 400 personnel and administrators from 18 vocational education institutions in Northeastern Thailand. The study employed a mixed-method research approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods, including exploratory factor analysis, data triangulation for component verification, and focus group discussions for confirming the proposed guidelines. findings revealed that a happy organization in Northeastern vocational education institutions under educational disruption situations consisted of 9 components and 75 indicators: 1) maintaining physical and mental well-being, 2) kindness and generosity toward others, 3) relaxation and stress reduction activities, 4) religious and ethical principles in life, 5) financial stability and management, 6) continuous learning and skill development, 7) supportive family relationships, 8) positive social relationships, and 9) supportive social ecosystems. All 75 indicators demonstrated validity in real-world contexts. The guidelines for developing happy organizations consisted of five key aspects: 1) acceptance of organizational agreements, 2) participation at all levels, 3) positive relationships and working atmosphere, 4) appreciation of work values, and 5) effective communication characteristics. The research findings can be applied as guidelines for managing vocational education institutions in Northeastern Thailand toward sustainable happy organizations.