Developing Learning Processes of Community Economic Groups toward Sustainability :Upgrading the 5R Model to a Developmental Learning Cycle

Abstract

Sustainable community economic development requires learning processes that are aligned with the context and dynamics of the community. This article aims to examine the learning processes of community economic groups and to synthesize a learning model that supports sustainable community economic strengthening. A qualitative research methodology was employed. The study area was Samut Prakan Province. The sample consisted of 17 community economic groups from six districts. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. Data were analyzed using content analysis and thematic synthesis (Wenger, 1998; Kolb, 2015; Sen, 1999; Putnam, 2000).       

          The findings reveal that the learning processes of community economic groups are characterized as practice-based learning embedded within economic activities and emerging through relationships and active participation among group members. From the synthesis of the data, this learning process can be explained through the “5R Model,” consisting of Recognition, Co-creation (thinking and doing together), Implementation, Reflection and Learning from Practice, and Reinforcement and Expansion. However, the learning that occurs in practice does not follow a linear sequence. Rather, it is cyclical, flexible, and recursive in nature (Wenger, 1998; Kolb, 2015; Wenger, McDermott, & Snyder, 2002; Sen, 1999; Putnam, 2000).      

          This article therefore proposes elevating the 5R Model to a “Developmental Learning Cycle” in order to explain the learning processes of community economic groups as dynamic and continuously adaptive. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the dynamics of this learning cycle are driven by three key mechanisms: internal empowerment, external linkages, and reflection and adaptation. The results suggest that this conceptual framework can serve as a foundation for designing development strategies and formulating policies aimed at strengthening sustainable community economic development (Wenger, 1998; Kolb, 2015; Wenger, McDermott, & Snyder, 2002; Sen, 1999; Putnam, 2000).