A Development of the Thai Buddhist Nuns’ Online Archive for Knowledge Management and Social Value Enhancement

Abstract

     Thai Buddhist nuns have made extensive contributions to Buddhism and Thai society through their diverse roles and accomplishments in religion, education, and social development. However, the lack of a standardized database, the fragmentation of information, and the absence of systematic presentation have hindered the preservation and dissemination of their legacies. This study therefore seeks approaches for effective knowledge management and social value creation, with two primary objectives: (1) to analyze and categorize essential information from documentary evidence concerning the roles and contributions of Thai Buddhist nuns that reflect their religious and social significance, and (2) to develop a knowledge management model in the form of an online archival system for Thai Buddhist nuns to serve as a reliable source of learning and reference. This qualitative research employed documentary research and content analysis following Glenn A. Bowen’s framework. The primary sources included Mae Chi San Journal, biographical works, and records from the Thai Nuns’ Institute Foundation, while the secondary sources comprised scholarly articles, conference proceedings, and international archival management guidelines.

     The findings revealed that the contributions of Thai Buddhist nuns can be classified into four dimensions: (1) the religious dimension, including the propagation of Buddhism, moral training, and serving as ethical role models; (2) the educational dimension, encompassing the establishment of Buddhist schools, dissemination of knowledge, and development of learning media; (3) the social development dimension, exemplified by community service activities, social development initiatives, and environmental protection; and (4) the cultural and social dimension, reflected in the preservation of traditions, the creation of women’s networks, and participation in public activities. Collectively, these dimensions indicate that the roles of Thai Buddhist nuns extend beyond religious activities and demonstrate their significance as a form of social capital essential for the development of Thai society. The study’s outcomes highlight the design and development of the Thai Buddhist Nuns’ Online Archives with three distinctive features: (1) a digital information management system aligned with international standards, (2) a knowledge integration mechanism that facilitates efficient retrieval and utilization, and (3) the establishment of a public learning platform bridging academic knowledge and societal engagement. These findings contribute to creating a sustainable knowledge dissemination space for scholars, youth, and Thai society at large, supporting innovation, academic advancement, and social development, while also serving as a historical repository of the contributions of Thai Buddhist nuns. The archives thus function not only as a storage system but also as a means of preserving vital evidence that generates enduring social value and sustainable cultural capital.