CULTURAL HERITAGE AND LOCAL HISTORY COMMUNICATION THROUGH DIGITAL STORYTELLING: A CASE STUDY OF THE WANG THONG OLD MARKET COMMUNITY, PHITSANULOK PROVINCE

Abstract

          This study investigates “Digital Narrative Media: A Case Study of the Wang Thong Old Market Community, Phitsanulok Province.” Driven by rapid technological advancements and shifting social dynamics, the valuable cultural heritage and historical legacy of this historic community face an imminent risk of fading over time. The objectives of this research are to investigate and synthesize the knowledge of the community’s cultural heritage and history, and to transform these insights into digital storytelling media tailored for youth engagement. Employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative research, the investigation began with an primary document analysis, combined with comprehensive field surveys and in-depth interviews with local sages. The gathered data were creatively synthesized into narrative scripts, leading to the production phase of the digital narrative media, which was subsequently tested with the target audience. The findings reveal that the Wang Thong Old Market community possesses a rich cultural ecosystem, characterized by a traditional waterfront way of life, historical wooden architecture, and profound local lore. When transformed through an engaging storytelling process, this digital content effectively bridges the generational gap and fosters community participation. Furthermore, the outcomes of this study significantly impact the future of the Wang Thong community across three vital dimensions . Preservation. establishing a sustainable digital repository for intergenerational knowledge transmission .Economic serving as a strategic tool to drive cultural tourism and stimulate the local economy and Social awakening local consciousness and instilling a sense of pride in local identity. Ultimately, these dimensions establish a solid foundation for developing and empowering the Wang Thong Old Market community to thrive sustainably in the digital era.