Development of Short Courses “Digital Competencies” for Government Personnel to Promote Being a Smart City in Chachoengsao Province

Abstract

           This research aims to assess the need for digital competency development among government personnel and create and evaluate a short course on “Digital Competency” to promote the smart city initiative in Chachoengsao Province. This research employs a research and development model combined with mixed methods. The qualitative study involved in-depth interviews and group discussions with 29 informants, including executives and operational personnel from government organizations in Chachoengsao Province, community leaders, village representatives, sociology academics, and higher education teachers. The quantitative research utilized a purposive sample of 90 individuals working in central, regional, and local government agencies in Chachoengsao Province, collected via questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.        

            The research findings highlight that executives of government organizations express a need for educational institutions of private or private businesses to offer short-term training courses on digital competencies for government organizations. They also emphasize the importance of providing online training options due to budget constraints. The study outlines five key dimensions for developing digital skills: 1) Skills in knowing and using technology: Personnel should be encouraged to understand and use digital technology and perform essential maintenance; 2) Skills in understanding policies, laws, and standards: Personnel should be knowledgeable about the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA); 3) Digital skills for application and development: Personnel should be able to apply technology within the agency and in public service delivery; 4) Digital skills for planning, managing, and leading the organization: Personnel should use digital technology to create work innovations; and 5) Digital skills to drive change and innovation: Goals and plans for digital government organizations should be clearly defined and actionable. The evaluation of the short course’s effectiveness showed high satisfaction among participants, particularly with the course content, lecturers, and the knowledge and understanding gained. This led to the development of the “Curriculum on Electronic Government Procedures for Government Personnel to Promote Smart City Development,” which was evaluated and quality-checked by experts, ensuring its practicality and usability.