The Model of the Career Development in the Integrated Farming System for Lifestyle of New Model Farmers in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

         This research objective was to study a model of career development in the integrated farming system for the lifestyles of new model farmer in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The sample selected by using purposive sampling was 5 farmers, who cultivated the integrated farming and ware designated as models “Young Smart Farmer” of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The research instrument used was in-depth interviews. The results were as follows: 1) the model of integrated farming was related to the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy coupled with the sustainable agricultural system, 2) the concepts and lifestyles of farmers doing the integrated farming system ware associated with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy; for instance, sufficiency lifestyles with modesty, rationality, and self-immunity, as well as behaving in accordance with conditions of knowledge and morality, 3) the career development changed from monoculture to integrated farming by applying knowledge, experiences, and technology for further development, 4) in term of obstacles and success, the farmer faced to problems of labor, finance, and product price; on contrary, factors affected to success ware determination, patience, and self-learning in their own farming styles, and 5) the career guidelines for next-generation focused on promoting learning by opening their own agricultural plantations as a learning center of integrated framing for visitors who are interested to visit and learn.