EXPECTATIONS, NEEDS, AND SUCCESS OF PROJECT PARTICIPANTS TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE AND RAISE HOUSEHOLD INCOME UNDER THE STRATEGIC PROJECT OF RAJABHAT UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This research aimed to study the expectations, needs, and success levels of participants in the Quality-of-Life Improvement and Household Incomes Enhancement Project under the Strategic Plan of Rajabhat University. The target group consisted of 40 community members who received academic services. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation.        The findings revealed that most respondents were female (85%), aged between 41–50 years (57.50%), and had a monthly household income between 10,000–15,000 baht (47.50%). Regarding expectations, the overall level was very high ( = 4.72, S.D. = 0.43). The highest mean score was found in the item "expecting to apply the knowledge from the project in real life" ( = 4.75, S.D. = 0.43), followed by "expecting the project to promote sustainable community development." Participants’ needs were also at the highest level ( = 4.65, S.D. = 0.54), particularly the desire for continuity of such projects ( = 4.85, S.D. = 0.36) and the aspiration to improve the personal quality of life and careers (  = 4.80, S.D. = 0.36). In terms of success, participants reported very low levels of understanding before the training (  = 1.40, S.D. = 0.84), but significantly higher levels after training (  = 4.60, S.D. = 0.54). Additionally, the perceived impact of the project on participants’ quality of life was also at the highest level (  = 4.77, S.D. = 0.42). The results of this study highlight the importance of continuing such projects and emphasize the need for participatory activity design that responds to real community needs. This ensures the effectiveness and sustainability of local development in accordance with the mission of Rajabhat Universities.