A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science

Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1986

This study compares Village Development Volunteers (VDVs) inside the Development of People's Organization Project in Atsamat District, Roi Ed Province with VDVs outside the project in Kosum Phisai District, Mahasarakham Province. The study explores the socio-economic conditions of VDVs, the awareness of VDVs, the training process evaluation, the people's organization and the problems and needs of VDVs. Upon completing the training, the VDVs inside the project can contribute better through their work to stimulating participation in community development activities. VDVs inside the project are more frequently founding members, groups' members and they engage mor e in organizational activities than those outside the project. Surprisingly, they join com mittees in those organizations less than those outside the project. The problems of VDVs are old age, l ow economic status, lack of co ordination among various persons working on development and the frequent change of Community Development Workers. The Community Development Workers should organize group discussions among the people and local leaders to recruit VDVs with the right age and occupational status. Furthermore , close follow-up, assistance, consultation and encouragement by Community Development Workers that stay long enough in an area is needed.