Knowledge Transfer Process from University to Community: a Case Study of Viharn Phra Chao Pun Ong Conservation Project, Wat Pong Sanuk, Lampang Province

Abstract

Using a university’s community service project as a case study, this article aims to (1) explain knowledge transfer processes between university and community, (2) analyze roles of actors in knowledge transfer process from both knowledge creators’ and knowledge receivers’ perspective, and (3) identify success factors in transferring knowledge based on a case study of Viharn Phrachao Pun Ong Conservation Wat Pong sanuk, Lampang Province.   Analyzing from data collected from key informants via in-depth interviews, focused group interviews, and non-participative observations, it was found that knowledge transfer process is based on interchangeably roles of creators and receivers of knowledge. The interactions of both parties dynamically occur in various forms namely; socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization, which effect how they apply transferred knowledge in their own context. In order to successfully transfer knowledge, both university and community must have a clear shared vision and an open-minded mindset.