Synthesis of Research on Folktales in Eastern Thailand During 1979-2024

Abstract

           This documentary research aimed 1) to examine the status of research on folktales in Eastern Thailand from 1979 to 2024; 2) identify key issues addressed in folk tale research; and 3) analyze research trends concerning folktales in Eastern Thailand. Data were systematically collected from three sources: Thai Journals Online, the ThaiLIS Digital Collection, and the Burapha University Library System. The collected data were analyzed both basic statiscal methods and content analysis. The research finding indicated that: 1) A total of 35 research studies on folktales were identified, with the earliest publication in 1987 and the most recent in 2024. The years with the highest research output were 1987, 2003, and 2017. Burapha University was the institution that produced the largest number of studies, most of which were theses. The Curriculum and Instruction Program accounted for the highest number of research works. 2) Key issues in folktales research included the application of folk tales and folktales texts. 3) The trend in the study of folktales in Eastern Thailand reflected academic interest that was dynamic and varied over time. Despite variations in the volume of research conducted, folktales had consistently remained a subject of sustained scholarly attention since 1987.