Abstract:
This research aimed to: 1) examine the issues surrounding participatory leadership based on the Four Principles of Social Harmony (Saṅgahavatthu 4) among educational administrators under the Office of Primary Education Service Area 4 in Khon Kaen; 2) propose developmental approaches for participatory leadership based on the Four Principles of Social Harmony for these administrators. The study employed a mixed-method research approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. For the quantitative research, data were collected using a questionnaire with a reliability score of 0.98. The sample consisted of 311 school administrators and teachers, and statistical analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. For qualitative research, data were collected through interviews with 9 key informants, selected purposively to ensure consistency and validity.
Findings were as follows:
1) Issues in participatory leadership based on the four principles of social harmony: the study found that the highest level of implementation by educational administrators under the Office of Primary Education Service Area 4, Khon Kaen, was in participation in operations, followed by participation in decision-making and participation in benefits, respectively. The least implemented aspect was participation in evaluation.
2) Guidelines for developing participatory leadership based on the four principles of social harmony: (1) administrators should apply the principle of Dāna (Generosity) by providing resources and support to staff to encourage participation in decision-making. Major school decisions should consider diverse perspectives from staff. (2) Administrators should provide adequate support and resources to ensure the successful implementation of school operations. (3) Administrators should share the benefits of the schools achievements with staff members. (4) Administrators should apply the principle of Samanattatā (Equality) by ensuring equal opportunities for all staff to participate in the evaluation process.