Community and Social Development Journal

The Impact of Teachers’ Qualifications on Teaching and Students’ English Achievement: A Case Study in the Department of English Language, Faculty of Languages, Souphanouvong University

Chansy Yangxaypor, Somsack Phetsamai, Toulakone Souliya — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of teacher’s qualifications on teaching and students’ learning English achievement in the Department of English language Faculty of Languages, Souphanouvong University. Teacher qualification is very important because it directly affects students’ achievement. Student achievement was considered as dependent variable, and teacher educational qualification, subject major, teaching experience, and professional experience were considered as the independent variables. The researcher selected all the teachers who taught English classes and the English students from year 1 to year 4 for this research study 16 questionnaires were distributed among the English teachers in the English Department. The response rate of the teachers was 100% and 111 questionnaires were sent to the English students Department from years 1 to year 4. The response rate of the students was 82.80%. for both teachers’ qualifications and students’ learning English achievement in the Department of English Language on five-point Likert scales as the scaling method. The results reveal that most of the teachers have experience and hold their own expertise qualifications in teaching. And students have average to high academic achievement at each level. Therefore, professionally trained English language teachers are seen to have a better mastery of the subject in the classroom. They usually create the right environment for students to maintain a positive attitude towards the subject and perform better too. This study has buttressed the fact that teachers’ qualification affects students’ achievement in English language. The study has also shown that teacher’s qualification has a significant relationship between with student’s achievement and attitude towards English language.

Innovation Ecosystem Engagement and Innovation Performance: The Roles of Dynamic Capabilities and Digital Maturity

Ruizhe Yue, Hui Guo — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

In the digital era, innovation ecosystem engagement (IEE) has emerged as a critical strategic imperative for firms seeking to enhance their innovation performance. This study investigates the complex relationship between IEE and firm innovation performance (IP), examining the mediating role of dynamic capabilities (DC) and the moderating effect of organizational digital maturity (ODM). Drawing on resource-based view, dynamic capabilities theory, and innovation ecosystem theory, we developed a comprehensive theoretical model tested through structural equation modeling with data from 354 employees across 44 firms in technology-intensive industries in City M, China. Results reveal that IEE significantly enhances innovation performance through the development of dynamic capabilities, with this relationship being strengthened by higher levels of organizational digital maturity. Specifically, dynamic capabilities partially mediate the relationship between IEE and innovation performance (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), while organizational digital maturity significantly moderates the IEE-IP relationship (β = 0.15, p < 0.001). The model explains 42% of variance in dynamic capabilities and 56% of variance in innovation performance. These findings contribute to innovation management literature by integrating ecosystem, capability, and digital transformation perspectives, providing actionable insights for managers seeking to optimize their innovation strategies in digital contexts.

Research and Development of Museum-Community Collaboration: Utilizing Cultural Performing Arts in the Creation of Music and Contemporary Paintings to Promote Chiang Rai's Tourism Image

Ong-art Inthaniwet, Suppharat Inthaniwet — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to analyze and develop collaboration between museums and local communities using cultural performing arts as a medium for heritage preservation and creative tourism promotion in Chiang Rai, Thailand. The study employs a mixed-methods design. Primary data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, questionnaires, and field observations at two selected museums: the Museum of Old Photos Chiang Khong and the Hong Luang Saeng Kaew Museum at Wat Phra Kaew Chiang Rai. Their selection was based on their roles in preserving local history, culture, and the Lanna artistic heritage. Quantitative results from 152 exhibition visitors revealed high levels of cultural appreciation (M = 4.52), understanding of Chiang Rai’s cultural identity (M = 4.47), and interest in cultural tourism (M = 4.38). These findings demonstrate that integrating performing arts and contemporary creative works significantly enhances audience engagement and strengthens the cultural tourism image of Chiang Rai. Qualitative findings indicate that cultural performing arts such as Lanna dance, Khap Sor Lanna singing, and traditional theatrical forms effectively communicate historical narratives and reinforce communal identity. The research also facilitated the creation of original musical compositions and contemporary paintings inspired by local narratives, using post-impressionist techniques and popular-music idioms. The exhibition incorporated immersive storytelling, curated lighting, and ambient soundscapes featuring local music and the natural sound of the Mekong River. A key tangible outcome of this project was the strengthened collaboration between Chiang Rai Rajabhat University and Chiang Khong District through an MOU that formalized joint cultural development efforts. This partnership enabled coordinated exhibitions, youth engagement activities, and community-based cultural programming that contributed to local economic stimulation and intergenerational learning. The findings underscore the significance of integrating museums, performing arts, and creative expressions to promote cultural tourism and enhance Chiang Rai’s cultural. This study suggests that interdisciplinary artistic collaboration can serve as a sustainable model for area-based cultural development.

A Meta-Analysis of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Studies Across Continents

Irish Giselle C. Bautista, Czarelle P. Lepran — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) plays a critical role in enhancing employability and supporting economic development. However, global disparities exist in labor force participation, policy implementation, and system effectiveness, highlighting the need for cross-continental analysis. This study aimed to conduct a systematic meta-analysis of international TVET research to 1) evaluate labor force participation of TVET graduates, 2) identify innovative policies and systemic interventions that strengthen TVET outcomes, and 3) propose strategies suitable for enhancing the Philippine TVET system. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on 60 studies published between 2016 and 2022. Data were sourced from four academic databases: ProQuest, EBSCO, JSTOR, and Elsevier. Inclusion criteria targeted studies focused on TVET programs or graduates reporting employment outcomes or systemic interventions. Qualitative data were analyzed using MAXQDA, while quantitative data were synthesized to determine labor force participation across continents. Labor force participation of TVET graduates varied by region, with Asia reporting the highest rate (27.27%) and Africa the lowest (10.54%). Effective policies identified include strong governance, public-private partnerships, competency-based training, recognition of prior learning, and ICT-supported monitoring. For the Philippines, adopting these strategies can improve alignment with labor market needs and enhance graduate employability. The study demonstrates that context-specific policies, systemic interventions, and strategic partnerships are essential for improving TVET outcomes globally and locally. Evidence-based strategies can strengthen the Philippine TVET system, ensure labor market relevance, and promote workforce readiness.

A Peircean Semiotic Analysis of the Liuyang Confucius Worship Ritual: ‎Symbol Classification and Cultural Representation

Wang Wan, Phakamas Jirajarupat, Yinghua Zhang — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Based on Peirce's Tripartite Theory of Signs, this study systematically analyzes the symbolic classification system and representational logic of the Liuyang Confucius Worship Ritual. It aims to break through the limitation of overemphasizing description over classification in existing research on Confucius worship rituals and provide support for the dynamic inheritance of this intangible cultural heritage. Through integrating field investigation, in-depth interviews, and literature research, this study employs NVivo12 qualitative data analysis software to conduct systematic three-stage coding analysis (open coding, axial coding, and selective coding) with inter-coder reliability verification. The study identifies 68 core symbols, including 23 iconic signs (33.80%), 21 indexical signs (30.90%), and 24 symbolic signs (35.30%), and constructs a progressive classification system. These three types of signs realize meaning representation through formal similarity, contiguity/causality, and social convention respectively, and embody the integration of Confucian orthodox rituals and regional cultural characteristics. The study verifies the applicability of Peirce's theory, reveals the inheritance rules of ritual symbols, fills the gaps in relevant research, and provides a complete paradigm of theory, analysis, and interpretation, offering a reference for the research and inheritance of similar intangible cultural heritage projects.

Situational Leadership of Entrepreneurs Influencing ESG and Safety Management: Employee Perspectives in the Health, Beauty, and Supplement Manufacturing Sector

Ntapat Worapongpat — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to 1) examine the influence of entrepreneurs’ situational leadership on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance, 2) assess employees’ perceptions of safety management practices within the health, beauty, and supplement manufacturing sector, and 3) analyze the relationship between situational leadership, ESG driving, and workplace safety outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires administered to 150 employees, selected using the Taro Yamane formula with a 0.05 error level through accidental sampling. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics percentage, mean, and standard deviation—and inferential statistics, including t-test and F-test to examine differences among employee groups. The qualitative phase involved semi-structured interviews with business owners and key operational managers, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that situational leadership had a statistically significant positive influence on both ESG implementation and safety management performance. Employees perceived that adaptive leadership behaviors particularly directing and supporting styles enhanced clarity, compliance, and participation in ESG-related activities. Interview themes further indicated that leaders who adjusted their leadership style based on employee readiness facilitated safer work environments, encouraged environmental awareness, and strengthened organizational governance. Practical implications suggest that entrepreneurs should adopt flexible leadership styles to enhance ESG outcomes and integrate employee-centered safety strategies into organizational policy.

Factors Affecting the Decision to Select Gold Investment through Online Application in Bangkok

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aims to investigate the demographic factors and marketing mix elements influencing the decision to invest in gold through online applications among the working-age population in Bangkok. The study population consists of 3,246,303 individuals aged 21–60 years. Data were collected from a sample of 400 participants and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential statistical analyses were conducted using Independent-sample T-tests and One-way ANOVA (F-test) to examine group differences, followed by Least Significant Difference (LSD) post-hoc comparisons. Additionally, Multiple Regression Analysis was employed to determine the impact of the marketing mix.

The findings indicate that demographic factors specifically gender and age resulted in significant differences in gold investment decisions via online platforms. Furthermore, the marketing mix (Product, Price, Place, and Promotion) significantly influences the decision-making process for gold investment among the working-age group in Bangkok.

Predictive Analytics for Sales Forecasting in Emerging Market Retail: An Ensemble Learning and Time-Series Approach for A&Z Supermarket

Idowu Olugbenga Adewumi — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Evaluation of forecasting models with 5000 daily sales records (2020-2023) from A&Z Supermarket located at Oyo State, Nigeria. Ten (10) product IDs from five (5) stores. The dataset incorporates a total of 11 predictive variables. This includes price, competitor price, macroeconomic index (simulated), promo indicators, holiday flags and rolling averages. The forecast models are assessed through a train/test split with a 70/30 ratio. They are forecasting for a 7-day horizon. Further, rolling window validation prevents leakage. According to descriptive analysis, the average sales quantity resulted in 26.49 sales units with a standard deviation of 11.58. The day of sales displays cumulative spikes, mainly during weekends as well as holidays. The research compares various traditional models such as ARIMA, SARIMA, and Linear Regression with machine learning models like Random Forest, XGBoost, LSTM, and GRU and has a RMSE ranging from 10.55 to 14.36 and R² values ranging from %u221A0.740 to 0.884. Bagging, boosting, stacking techniques are used to improve the performance of predictive models. The stacking ensemble achieved the lowest RMSE (8.14). The performance of LSTM was observed to be best as depicted by (RMSE= 8.75, R²= 0.91) as it outperformed Prophet and XGBoost. The lack of generalizability can be attributed to a narrow dataset that incorporates only a single retailer and a simulated macroeconomic index. An analysis of the business KPIs indicates a decline in inventory costs of 17.8% and of stockouts by 15.4%. Such improvements along with a 9.5% increase in ROI are encouraged through the use of LSTM (Long-Short Term Memory) investments. The results indicate that hybrid ensemble-time-series models are superior to conventional methods and offer important practical conveniences in optimizing inventory and forecasting demand in retail settings in emerging markets.

What Challenges and Opportunities Shape Tourism Development in China?

Qinghua Mao, Rui Huang — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Sustainable tourism development has become a strategic agenda in China as the nation tries to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental and cultural conservation as well as social equity. This study examines the key challenges and emerging opportunities for achieving appropriate and sustainable tourism development in China. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with tourism policymakers, destination managers, community representatives, and tourism practitioners. Additionally, analysis of national tourism policies and sustainability frameworks was supplemented to explain what institutional and socio-cultural factors shaping tourism governance. The results indicate that there are four issues that are interdependent and connected: 1) A gap in policy implementation; 2) The pressure of carrying capacity of the environment; 3) The lack of participation of the community; and 4) Commercialization of cultural heritage. Although there is a high level of dedication at the central level to sustainability, the enforcement at the local level is not consistent because of economic pressures and fragmented governance. Nonetheless, the paper also reveals some emerging opportunities such as digital governance tools, eco-compensation systems and models of community-based tourism and its correspondence to the goal of carbon neutrality in China. In practice, the results inform policy makers and practitioners who want to improve the progress of economically viable, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive tourism development in rapidly changing China.

The Causal Relation Model of Job Satisfaction of Art and Design Teachers in Shanxi Province

Lina Wang, Phanthida Laophuangsak — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The objectives of this study are: 1) to investigate the factors influencing the job satisfaction of art and design teachers in Shanxi Province, and 2) to explore guidelines for enhancing their job satisfaction. The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative survey analysis, collecting data from 443 art and design teachers from the top 20 universities in Shanxi Province.
The results indicate that organizational culture, transformational leadership, and psychological empowerment have a significant positive impact on job satisfaction. Notably, psychological empowerment indirectly enhances job satisfaction by strengthening professional identity. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis shows that the model fits well, with all indicators meeting statistical standards.
The study suggests that university administrators should strengthen psychological empowerment, foster a positive organizational culture, and enhance teachers' professional identity through transformational leadership to improve job satisfaction.

Determinants of Quality of Life among Older Adults Living in Agricultural Communities in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

Yodfah Ratmanee — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This cross-sectional analytical study examined the quality of life (QoL) and its associated determinants among 381 older adults residing in agricultural communities in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, using the WHOQOL-OLD instrument. The study aimed to examine domain-specific patterns of QoL and to identify the sociodemographic, health, lifestyle, and psychosocial determinants associated with each WHOQOL-OLD domain in rural agricultural settings. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, and multivariate linear regression models were applied to determine the independent predictors of each QoL domain.
The sample was predominantly female (51.40%), with most participants aged 60–69 years (57.70%) and 79.00% reporting at least one chronic illness. Poor QoL was most prevalent in the Sensory Abilities (57.22%) and Death and Dying (60.37%) domains, reflecting age-related sensory decline and heightened mortality concerns common in agricultural environments. In contrast, higher levels of good QoL were observed in Past–Present–Future Activities (51.44%) and Intimacy (48.29%), highlighting strong engagement in meaningful roles and close social bonds. Regression analyses indicated that sociodemographic factors (higher education and income), health factors (absence of chronic illness), lifestyle factors (regular physical activity and adequate sleep of 7–8 hours), and psychosocial factors (strong family relationships) were significantly associated with multiple QoL domains. Chronic illness emerged as a strong negative predictor, particularly in the Sensory Abilities, Social Participation, and Death and Dying domains. These findings demonstrate the multidimensional influence of sociodemographic, health, lifestyle, and psychosocial determinants on the well-being of older adults.
This study contributes new knowledge by applying the WHOQOL-OLD framework within agricultural communities, a population underrepresented in aging research. The findings highlight key modifiable factors influencing domain-specific QoL and offer practical implications for community health planning, chronic disease management, and family-centered support strategies to promote healthy and meaningful aging in rural agricultural settings.

Language Policy Implementation Strategies of English Education in Higher Education Institutions in Jiangsu Province of China

Chengmiao Hao, Phanthida Laophuangsak — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research examines the implementation of national language policies on English education in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Jiangsu Province, China. The objectives of this study are threefold: 1) to analyze the desired conditions of English education as articulated in national policy documents, 2) to investigate the actual practices of English education in HEIs through a case study of institutions in Jiangsu Province, and 3) to identify discrepancies between policy mandates and institutional practices and to propose appropriate implementation strategies. This study adopts a qualitative research design integrating critical discourse analysis, content analysis, and N-gram analysis. The analysis is based on two national policy documents and English education–related information collected from the official websites of 20 sampled HEIs in Jiangsu Province. This integrated methodological approach enables a systematic comparison between national policy expectations and institutional practices.
The findings indicate that national policies articulate comprehensive goals for English education, emphasizing talent cultivation, cross-cultural competence, and quality assurance. However, variations exist in the ways these policies are implemented at the institutional level. Discrepancies are identified in curriculum development, resource allocation, teacher development, evaluation mechanisms, and student outcomes, reflecting challenges in translating national policy mandates into diverse local contexts.
The study concludes that flexible and context-sensitive implementation strategies are necessary to narrow the gap between national language policy expectations and HEI-based practices. The study proposes recommendations to enhance policy implementation through adaptive monitoring mechanisms, strengthened curriculum and resource support, balanced teacher development, improved evaluation systems, and the promotion of cross-cultural competence. The findings contribute to a clearer understanding of language policy implementation in higher education and provide practical implications for policymakers and institutional administrators.

Blooming Seasons: The Art of Creating Traditional-Based Contemporary Dance

Jirui Ouyang, Phakamas Jirajarupat, Qianqiu Jin — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

As one of the representative traditional dances of Hunan Province, China, Mayang Huadeng faces ‎the challenge of integrating into contemporary society while preserving its cultural heritage. Taking ‎innovation as the starting point, this research explores the creation of contemporary dance based on ‎traditional Mayang Huadeng through practical investigation and artistic creation. The study ‎examines traditional creative methods of Mayang Huadeng and develops contemporary dance ‎works grounded in these traditions, ultimately establishing an approach for creating contemporary ‎dance art rooted in traditional forms. Data collection involved literature review and fieldwork ‎utilizing interviews and observations as primary research instruments. The researchers conducted ‎creative practice research employing focus groups to gather expert feedback on the choreographic ‎process. Through comprehensive analysis, this study presents a methodology for creating ‎contemporary dance art that honors tradition while embracing innovation. The resulting dance ‎work, 'Blooming Seasons,' demonstrates how traditional elements can be transformed through ‎creative adaptation of movement vocabulary, innovative development of traditional forms, and ‎balanced integration of collective heritage with individual artistic expression. This research ‎contributes to the discourse on intangible cultural heritage preservation by proposing practical ‎strategies for revitalizing traditional dance forms to meet contemporary aesthetic expectations while ‎maintaining cultural authenticity.‎

The Effects of Design Thinking Activities on Learning Achievement and Innovative Thinking Skills Among Undergraduate English Major Students in Thailand

Napatchaya Sukpatcharaporn — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purposes of this research were to compare undergraduate students’ learning achievements and innovative thinking skills before and after learning through design thinking activities in English for communication in service industry course, and to study undergraduate students’ self-perception on their innovative thinking skill after learning through design thinking activities. A one-group pretest–posttest design was employed. The sample group of this research was 59 undergraduate students majoring in English who enrolled in English for communication in service industry course in academic year 2024. Total population sampling was employed, representing 95.1% of the population. The research instruments included design thinking activity plans in English for communication in service industry course, a learning achievement test, an innovative thinking skills test and a self-perception of innovative thinking skills questionnaire. All instruments were validated by experts for content validity (IOC = 0.67–1.00). The internal consistency reliability of the instruments was examined using the Kuder–Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20) for the learning achievement test and the innovative thinking skills test, and Cronbach’s alpha for the self-perceived innovative thinking skills questionnaire. The reliability coefficients were 0.74, 0.79, and 0.91, respectively. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, t-test (dependent samples), and Cohen’s d. The results indicated that post-test scores for learning achievement were significantly higher than pre-test scores at the .05 level, with a very large effect size (d = 2.57). Similarly, innovative thinking skills significantly improved, with a very large effect size (d = 2.14). Students’ perceptions of their innovative thinking skills were rated at a high level after the intervention.

The Construction of Community Identity of the Silk Weaving Group in the Context of the State and Contemporary Society: A Case Study of Ban Phon, Kham Muang District, Kalasin Province

Laongdaw Poosumrong, Chalong Phanchan, Theerapong Meethaisong — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to study the process of constructing community identity among the silk weaving group in Ban Phon, Kham Muang District, Kalasin Province, within the context of the state and contemporary society. It also seeks to analyze the social, cultural, and governmental factors influencing the preservation and transformation of such identity. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. The key informants totaled 25 persons, consisting of 5 community leaders, 8 local silk weavers, 4 entrepreneurs, 4 government officers, 2 academic experts, and 2 cultural tourists.
The findings revealed that the identity of the Ban Phon silk weaving community has been constructed and reshaped through various social processes and state policies, particularly those promoting the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) project, creative economy initiatives, and digital media for cultural communication. The image of "Phrae Wa Silk of Ban Phon" has become a cultural symbol reflecting both local pride and modern Thai identity. However, the changes brought by the digital era have led to the reinterpretation of identity in multiple dimensions—cultural, economic, and social. Therefore, identity construction is not merely a process of preservation but also a dynamic adaptation of the community to contemporary social transformations.