สำนักราชบัณฑิตยสภา

«“√ “√ √“™∫— ≥±‘ µ¬ ∂“π ªï ∑’Ë ÛÒ ©∫— ∫∑’Ë Ò ¡.§.-¡’ .§. ÚıÙ˘ ªî ¬π“∂ ∫ÿ π𓧠141 Abstract H.R.H. Prince Chakrabongse of Pitsanuloke’s Ideas on the Military Education Development Piyanart Bunnag Associate Fellow of the Academy of Moral and Political Science, The Royal Institute, Thailand This article found that despite his relatively short life (March 3, 1882 - June 13, 1920), H.R.H Prince Chakrabongse of Pitsanuloke’s contributions to the military and civilian circles of education have had lasting effects up to the present day. It can be said that his ideas on the subject of education were veritably part of the development of education in Siam. In terms of military studies the Prince initiated a system of education patterned around western standards. He first saw to it that a systematic organizational management was instituted in the Military Academy comprising a system of class levels and superintendence, examinations for teachers in the selection process, the upgrading of the status of teachers and the administer- ing of final examinations for cadet students. Secondly, he also emphasized the importance of instilling the spirit of being rational career military officers. This is seen from the fact that cadet students were admitted from Pre-Cadet level and the changes in the selection process and qualifications of Cadet School applicants. The curriculum and methods of instruction underwent development placing emphasis on scientific rationality. Instead of learning by rote students were encouraged to make use of their aptitude and innate abilities. Language skills and ability especially in Thai and English were largely emphasized. Students were encouraged to read and to express their ideas in articles that were published for circulation. Importance was given to practical military training outside the parameters of the school setting. Health and hygiene was also given a high priority with a regimen of nutritious eating, exercise and relaxation prescribed. Thirdly was the institutionalizing of military education patterned on models of military cadet schools in the West through the establishment of such schools as the Army Chief of Staff school or the management of education in the area of flying that led to the establishment of the Air Force. H.R.H definitely deserves the credit as being the person responsible for developing the teaching and learning methods of the Royal Cadet School and for laying the foundations of Chief of Staff matters for the Royal Thai Air Force. H.R.H Prince Chakrabongse of Pitsanuloke’s ideas on military education are acade- mically sound theoretically and practically. They are also very up-to-date since they derive from studies conducted by the Prince from various sources of information both in Thailand and abroad. He also studied reports submitted to him by subordinate agencies and the opinion of higher level agencies in great detail. His efforts resulted in the efficient performance by the agencies under his responsibility that has served as a basis until the present day. Key words : H.R.H. Prince Chakrabongse of Pitsanuloke, Military Education Development