Correlation Analysis on Educational Level and Community Participatory Behavior in Grassroots Economy Promotion

Abstract

This comparative correlational study employs quantitative research, utilising Interactionism Theory alongside principles of community engagement and grassroots economic promotion as the foundational framework for variable selection with causal linkages. This research seeks to analyse the association between educational attainment and community involvement behaviour in the promotion of the grassroots economy. The sample group consisted of 634 individuals chosen from 24 communities. The sample size was determined via the G*Power software. A multi-stage quota random sampling technique was utilised to comprehensively encompass the population throughout Thailand. The evaluation of the variables employed 12 sets of summated rating scales as measuring tools. All measurement sets were subjected to Confirmatory Factor Analysis, yielding an average Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 0.82. The research findings corroborated all five hypotheses, presenting the principal results as follows. The educational attainment of community members exhibits significant variability and demonstrates a statistically significant positive link with participatory behaviour in grassroots economic promotion at the p < .01 level. The cohort with vocational certificate education exhibited a moderate correlation coefficient, whereas the cohort with higher vocational diplomas and bachelor’s degrees demonstrated moderate to high correlation coefficients, particularly concerning variables associated with participation channels, information access, self-confidence, and favourable attitudes towards participation. The group with elevated educational attainment possessed wider networks for information access and exhibited greater engagement avenues. They demonstrated enhanced and more enduring attitudes and confidence regarding engagement in community economic activities. The multiple regression analysis by predictor sets indicated that the variables with consistently high beta coefficients were sense of community attachment (β = 0.61), support from community leaders (β = 0.38), perceived benefits and rewards (β = 0.48), and participation channels (β = 0.45).