Administrative Guidelines of Coding Learning Center Based on the Quality Cycle of Schools in Thailand

Abstract

This article aims to: 1) analyze the current status, challenges, and recommendations regarding the management of coding learning centers; 2) identify best practices in the management of these centers; and 3) draft and evaluate management guidelines for coding learning centers based on the quality cycle framework utilized by schools in Thailand. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, with the conceptual framework grounded in six aspects of quality cycle management: management, academic management, personnel management, budget management, resource management, and network management. The study unfolds in three phases: 1)A survey assessing the status, challenges, and recommendations for managing coding learning centers, targeting 132 schools with coding programs nationwide, involving a total of 396 students. Data were collected via a questionnaire and analyzed using mean and standard deviation calculations. 2)An examination of management guidelines in schools demonstrating effective practices, where interviews were conducted with 15 administrators, coordinators, and teachers from five model schools across four regions. 3)The drafting and evaluation of management guidelines for coding learning centers, involving nine school administrators and executives from the Digital Economy Promotion Agency. Data were validated and analyzed through mean and standard deviation calculations, as well as content analysis.

The research findings indicate:

1. The overall management of coding learning centers is rated at a high level, with the following ranking from highest to lowest: resource management, management, budget management, academic management, personnel management, and network management. Nevertheless, some schools face challenges related to policy implementation, coordination, outdated curricula, untrained personnel, insufficient budgets, lack of equipment, and limited network management. Recommended actions include establishing clear policies, updating curricula, planning for succession, organizing training, ensuring ongoing budget allocation, providing adequate equipment, and enhancing network management through public relations and partnerships.
2. Coding learning centers with exemplary practices operate according to distinct objectives aligned with their school policies, focusing on improving educational quality, promoting 21st-century skills, and expanding network management. Their operations are structured into four phases: planning, implementation, monitoring, and improvement. Success factors include establishing clear objectives, securing administrative support, and enhancing the curriculum, while fostering collaborative networks with other schools and universities.
3. The management guidelines for coding learning centers, based on the quality cycle model, encompass four principal components: 1) objectives, 2) principles, 3) operational methods, and 4) success conditions. For effective management, the study emphasizes the necessity of clear policy articulation, robust administrative support, the development of contemporary curricula, efficient resource management, and the establishment of collaborative networks. These elements are vital for maximizing the development of students' coding skills.

The knowledge gained from this research highlights the importance of clear policy setting, modern curriculum development, appropriate resource management, and cooperation network building for effective management and maximized coding skills development for students