Factors Relating to the Selection of Educational Institution of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine Students

Abstract

The selection of an educational institute may depend on one or several reasons. This research was aimed to explore and compare the factors that students used in selecting the course and institute for their alternative medicine education. Three institutes of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine in 3 regions of Thailand including Burapha University in the east, Mahasarakham University in the northeast and Mae Fah Luang University in the north. These three institutes were purposely selected due to their differences in geography, economics and social. The results from 143 students questionnaires, more females students made their own decision, not by their parents, in selecting the institute. There are 6 factors involving the selection of the institutes (at the moderate level, = 3.47). For Burapha University, attractiveness of the course, opportunity to work after graduation, benefits of the course, natural and tourist attraction were the main factors. Whereas Mahasarakham University, benefits of the course, attractiveness of the course, fields match the preferences and interests, opportunity to work after graduation and Mae Fah Luang University, the attractiveness of the course, benefits of the course, fields match the preferences and interests, and modernized library are the main factors. The different of student’s domiciles, parent’s occupation and income were depicted the attention to the cost, location and physical presentation are also the factors (p<0.05). The findings also showed these students are used to alternative medicines by themselves, either using herbal medicines, meditation and massage for health promotion, treating mild illness and relaxation. Parents have the influence on the decision making in selecting the treatment. This study would be applicable to the involving institutes for planning and developments to meet the satisfaction of the attendants.