Development of a learning activity Package for Development of SAW-U variation skill.

Abstract

This research aims to (1) develop a learning activity package to enhance melodic adaptation skills for the Saw-U and (2) examine the learning achievement of students after implementing the developed activity package. The study employs a Research & Development (R&D) methodology, integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected through interviews with five experts in Thai string instruments to design a learning activity package based on Bloom’s cognitive domain theory. The package was then implemented with ten Saw-U major students aged 15–20 from the College of Dramatic Arts. Pre- and post-learning assessments were conducted using practical performance tests, and statistical analysis was applied to evaluate the results.

The findings reveal that Saw-u melodic adaptation requires a fundamental understanding of the core melody, particularly the Luk Tok (melodic cadential tones), which serve as essential structural components of a piece. Additionally, selecting appropriate melodic phrases and considering the tonal range of the Saw-U are crucial to achieving melodic coherence. The developed learning activity package consists of six activities: (1) Thai musical scales, (2) the core melody, (3) utilization of melodic phrases, (4) Saw-U melodic adaptation, (5) collaborative learning, and (6) Saw-U melodic creation. The experimental results show that the students' mean pre-test score was 19.10 (SD = 2.45), equivalent to 38.20%, while the mean post-test score significantly increased to 43.90 (SD = 3.10), or 87.80%, out of a total score of 50. A t-test analysis revealed a statistically significant difference at the .05 level (t = 7.85, p < .001), demonstrating that the developed learning activity package effectively enhances Saw-U melodic adaptation skills.