Study of Local Wisdom in Producing Luem Phua Black Glutinous Rice Tea through the Social Engineer Process by the Student Club of the Faculty of Education and Human Development, Sisaket Rajabhat University

Abstract

This article examines local wisdom in producing Luem Phua, Black Glutinous Rice Tea through a social engineering process conducted by the Student Club of the Faculty of Education and Human Development at Sisaket Rajabhat University. The study focuses on its historical background, origins, conceptual foundations, necessity, knowledge, expertise, and skills involved in the production process, as well as the transmission of this local wisdom to younger generations. A qualitative research methodology was employed, utilizing document analysis, interviews, discussions, and observations, implemented through a social engineering framework with five tools designed to develop students into thinkers, communicators, coordinators, and innovators. The findings reveal that the application of these five tools—(1) “Heaven-sent” (community context and problem exploration), (2) “Life Clock” (identifying collaborators), (3) developmental timeline (community history and rice farming evolution), (4) process timeline (production process of black glutinous rice tea), and (5) the M.I.C. Model for local development (emphasizing product enhancement, improvement, and innovation)

This local wisdom represents accumulated knowledge and expertise derived from experimentation and continuous learning, passed down from individuals to families and communities. The process integrates local raw materials with environmental, economic, cultural, and social capital, leading to self-reliance and increased community income. Originally developed from rice porridge water for the elderly, it has been adapted to suit people of all ages, resulting in a fragrant, appealing, and beneficial product that supports brain health, helps prevent beriberi, and aids digestion, and is transmitted through formal training combined with integrated learning approaches.