Abstract:
This research aimed to 1) identify the current and desired state of being a professional learning community of small schools in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, and 2) propose guidelines to enhance their performance of being a professional learning community.
The sample group, selected by stratified random sampling, consisted of 316 administrators and teachers of small schools in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The research instrument used for collecting data was a dual-response format questionnaire (Mean = 0.93). The data were analyzed by mean, standard deviation, and Modified Priority Needs Index (PNImodified).
The results revealed that 1) the overall opinion of the respondents on the current state of being a professional learning community of small schools in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province was at a high level (Mean = 4.23, S.D. = 0.66), and their desired state was at the highest level ( Mean = 4.28, S.D. = 0.60). 2) The proposed guidelines to enhance their performance of being a professional learning community were categorized according to the needs in descending order as: 1) knowledge sharing  encouraging teachers to develop their potentials and plan their classroom observations systematically; 2) collaborative learning and knowledge applicationproviding opportunities for teachers to demonstrate their potentials and make an agreement to improve their teaching approach; 3) visions and shared valuesreinforcing teachers to participate in setting goals to develop their students and emphasize their teamwork; 4) contributing conditionssupporting teachers by providing available time for their knowledge sharing, encouraging them, and being a good role model; and 5) assistance and shared leadershipenhancing their leadership in learner development activities, assigning appropriate jobs, and encouraging them to continuously develop themselves.