AN ANALYSIS OF PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC CONFERENCES AMONG PERSONNEL AND STUDENTS OF THE FACULTY OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCE AT SUAN SUNANDHA RAJABHAT UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Abstract—As academic conferences play a pivotal role in fostering scholarly exchange and professional development, understanding the patterns and dynamics of participation becomes crucial for institutions aiming to enrich their academic culture. This study delves into the landscape of conference engagement within the Faculty of Management Science at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, exploring the motivations, challenges, and opportunities for both personnel and students. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative analysis revealed distinct patterns based on academic ranks and student academic years. Senior faculty members displayed heightened participation, while senior students exhibited increased engagement in their final academic years. Financial constraints emerged as a significant challenge for both groups, influencing the frequency of participation. Mentorship emerged as a crucial success factor, impacting sustained engagement. These insights contribute to the ongoing dialogue on elevating the scholarly culture within the faculty, paving the way for sustained academic growth and excellence.