Development of a Learning Model to Enhance Learning Community in Community Mental Health in Saraburi Province

Abstract

The aim of this mixed-method research was to develop a learning model to enhance learning community in community mental health in Saraburi province. The study was conducted in 3 phases during January to May 2017: (1) studying the components of learning community in community mental health, (2) the developing a learning model to enhance learning community in community mental health, and (3) testing the learning model to enhance learning community in community mental health in Saraburi as well as identifying the key factors affecting the application of the model. The data collection was performed through interview, questionnaire and group discussion with experts, government officers, as well as the population in Saraburi Province. It was found that there were 6 components of learning community in community mental health, namely (1) community learning process, (2) characteristics of community leaders or volunteers, (3) network of community mental health, (4) mental health development activities, (5) learning resources, and 6) community information. The proposed learning model consisted of 5 components: (1) concepts, (2) principles, (3) goals, (4) learning process, and (5) the community context . The model was found to be very content suitable (Mean=3.69, SD=0.64) and very suitable with life style of people in Saraburi province (Mean=3.57, SD=0.51)). The learning model was considered highly appropriate in promoting the community to become learning community in mental health (Mean=3.57, SD=0.59); and the model was applicable in the context of the society in Saraburi (Mean=2.81, SD=0.63). There were 3 factors that could positively and negatively affect the learning model, including (1) personnel characteristics, (2) technologies, and (3) learning atmospheres.