The Development of Learning for Competency-Based Education Among Digital-Era Learners in Modern Thai Society

Abstract

This academic article aims to present a body of knowledge on the development of learning competencies among the new generation in Thai society in the digital age and to propose guidelines for developing learner competencies within educational institutions to support the new generation's learning development. Thailand is advancing its national development toward becoming a developed country through the 20-Year National Strategy (2018 - 2037) and the National Education Plan (2017 - 2036), using education to develop both Threshold Competencies and Differentiating Competencies among learners and to promote equity in education and lifelong learning. The advancement of learning toward competency development for the new generation—so as to equip them with the potential and capability in science, technology, and modern innovation that meet international quality standards—must arise from the design of systems and the improvement of 21st-century learning development processes through a paradigm shift. This requires knowledge and understanding of how to cultivate both specialized professional technical skills (hard skills) and emotional intelligence and the capacity for coexistence (soft skills), aligned with the characteristics of individuals and society in the new era. Furthermore, this process must cultivate moral integrity, ethics, and humanity characterized by honesty and responsibility, while adhering to the principles of good governance to enhance competitiveness in economic affairs, trade, and investment, as well as to foster cooperation within the global community—guided by a spirit of compassion and empathy toward others—so as to achieve a quality of life that is sustainable, balanced, and mutually harmonious.