The Development of Isan Dialect Learning Materials from the Phaya Khan Khak Folktale Using Handmade Books

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to 1) examine the characteristics of Kham Pha-ya, or Isan poetic expressions, in the folk literature Phaya Khan Khak based on the transcribed manuscript from Wat Nart Phromwas, Mad Na Thom Subdistrict, Khok Si Suphan District, Sakon Nakhon Province, focusing on Isan vocabulary and expressions, language use, content presentation, and social and cultural values, and 2) develop a handmade book on Kham Pha-ya from the Phaya Khan Khak folk literature to promote learning of the Isan dialect. Content analysis was conducted on the transcribed Phaya Khan Khak literature, and the findings were used to develop a handmade book. The book was then preliminarily used with 40 students in Grades 4–6. The students read Kham Pha-ya, learned the meanings of Isan vocabulary, and practiced pronunciation or using the vocabulary presented in the book. The findings revealed that Kham Pha-ya is characterized by concise, vivid, and melodious poetic expressions in the Isan dialect. Its linguistic features include Isan vocabulary and expressions, repetition, rhyme, and figurative comparisons. The content reflects the beliefs, ways of life, and values of Isan communities, including karma, morality, gratitude, perseverance, patience, compassion, social relationships, and concepts of governance and leadership. These findings were used to select appropriate Kham Pha-ya and develop a handmade book incorporating vocabulary explanations, illustrations, and learning activities. The use of the learning material was preliminary and did not involve an evaluation of learning achievement through pre- and post-use comparisons.