Strategic Alignment for AI Success: Vocational Education in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor
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Abstract
Background and Aim: AI plays a significant role across all sectors, and applying AI in vocational education administration is key to enhancing efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness to labor market demands quickly and accurately. The objectives of this research were: 1) to study the organizational strategic factors affecting the success of AI tools utilization and 2) to propose guidelines related to the development of models and methods for using AI tools for educational management in vocational education institutions in the EEC of Thailand.
Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 376 personnel from vocational education institutions in the EEC, obtained through multi-stage random sampling. The qualitative sample comprised 15 experts in vocational and technical education. Research instruments included questionnaires, interviews, and observation forms. Quantitative data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis, and qualitative data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.
Results: The research findings revealed that factors influencing the use of AI tools are related to organizational strategy, including: 1) organizational policy, 2) support from administrators, 3) users’ experience and competence in using AI tools, 4) users’ knowledge of using AI tools for management, and 5) the development team’s ability to coordinate with users. Guidelines for developing models and methods for using AI tools comprise: 1) Considerations for using AI tools, which include (1) alertness and awareness of the necessity, (2) capability of personnel and the organization, (3) procurement of suitable tools, (4) participatory planning and development of work systems, and (5) performance evaluation and error management. 2) Five steps for maximizing the efficiency of AI tool utilization, which include (1) defining strategic objectives, (2) selecting and procuring appropriate AI tools, (3) preparing personnel and data, (4) implementation, planning, and system development, and (5) evaluation, improvement, and maintenance. 3) Suitable AI tools for efficient vocational education institution management, which include (1) AI for student information systems, (2) AI for curriculum development and teaching and learning, (3) AI for assessment and feedback, (4) AI for resource and facility management, and (5) AI for student services and support.
Conclusion: The research concludes that five organizational strategic factors drive the success of AI tools implementation in Thailand’s ECC vocational education: organizational policy, administrative support, users’ AI experience/competence and knowledge, and the development team’s coordination ability. Guidelines for development, including considerations and steps for effective AI usage, and suitable AI tools, were also identified.
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