Application Buddhadhamma to Promote Public Participation in Preparing the Local Development Plan of Bangsai Subdistrict Municipality at Bangsai District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province Application Buddhadhamma to Promote Public Participation in Preparing the Local Development Plan of Bangsai Subdistrict Municipality at Bangsai District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) examine the level of public participation in local development planning, 2) investigate the relationship between the Seven Aparihāniya Dhammas and public participation, and 3) propose guidelines for applying Buddhist principles to promote public participation in Bang Sai Subdistrict Municipality, Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 381 residents, determined from a population of 8,123 selected through Yamane’s sampling formula at a 0.05 margin of error. Data were collected through a questionnaire with a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of 0.938 and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). The qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 9 key informants and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

          The research findings revealed that 1) the overall level of public participation in local development planning was at a high level, 2) the Seven Aparihāniya Dhammas had a statistically significant positive relationship with public participation at the 0.01 level (r = .749), and 3) the proposed guidelines included holding regular meetings, conducting comprehensive public relations, enforcing regulations fairly, respecting community leaders, promoting women's roles, preserving local culture, and encouraging youth to apply Buddhist principles in daily life, in order to develop public participation effectively and sustainably.