Development of an eLearning model in SMEs management skills for Thai food clusters

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to develop a web-based learning model in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) management skills for Thai Food Clusters called MONARCHIST model. The model was conducted based on the needs of learners and experts’ recommendations by using Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate an online course. The efficiency of the eLearning model developed was analyzed as well as the satisfaction of the Thai Food Industrial entrepreneurs towards the LMS. This study assesses the utility of mixed methods designs that integrate qualitative (In-Depth Interviews) and quantitative (Sample Survey) approaches. The data were collected from the entrepreneurs, who were working in five sectors of food production areas. This study used descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and correlation to measure the importance of satisfaction components. Research findings were that the MONARCHIST model met the 80/80 efficiency criterion. Additionally, participants showed significant improvement in their knowledge in business management after course completion (p<0.01). Furthermore, the satisfactory score of learners towards the MONARCHIST model was high (4.38 out of 5.00). These results conclude that the MONARCHIST model was effective and practical for implementation.