Community - Based Ecotourism Interpreter Development in Ban Song Community, Suratthani Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to develop community-based ecotourism interpreters. This research examined a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies using participatory action research (PAR) and the participatory developing process (Appreciation Influence Control Evaluation Techniques - AICE). Locale of the study was Ban Song community, Suratthani province. Data were obtained through interview, observation and questionnaire. Obtained data were analyzed by using content analysis and description statistics i.e. mean percentage, and standard deviation. Results of the study were as follows:

          The results of the study have led to the development of community-based ecotourism interpreters process consisting of 4 steps: 1) creating community interpreters’ criteria and standard 2) assessing current competency of community interpreters 3) organizing practical training for community interpreters and 4) evaluation of the community interpreter development.

          The researchers and members of Ban Song interpreter group have collaborated to develop a standard for local community interpreters, adapted from Thailand Tourist Guide Standard and CBT Standard Handbook by The Thailand Community Based Tourism Institute (CBT-I) and used as a guidelines for community-based ecotourism interpreters development consisting of 3 main issues: 1) qualification of community-based ecotourism interpreter 2) knowledge of community-based ecotourism interpreter and 3) roles, responsibilities and ethics of community-based ecotourism interpreter implemented the following steps: 1) assessing current competency of community-based ecotourism interpreter 2) organizing workshop and practice tour and 3) evaluating the development of community-based ecotourism interpreter.

          Results of the evaluation process of community-based ecotourism interpreters standard by arranging familiarization trip (FAM Trip). The survey results shown that most of the respondents have a satisfaction level toward the standard of Ban Song community interpreters, the top three ranking were 1) appropriate behavior 2) work readiness 3) being community members and accepted by the community. By considering each aspect, it was found that the respondents were most satisfied with the qualification and characteristics of Ban Song community interpreters, followed by job skills according to roles, duties and responsibilities.