Digital Technology for Driving Sustainable Learning in the Old City of Songkhla's Cultural Heritage

Abstract

The objectives of this study are as follows: 1) to design and implement a spatial database system that features cultural heritage sites; 2) to establish a via the internet mapping system that can be used to exhibit cultural heritage sites; and 3) to construct a prototype automated response system that delivers pertinent information regarding cultural heritage sites situated in the historical city districts of Songkhla, more precisely along Nang Ngam Road, Nakhon Nok Road, and Nakhon Nai Road. As the only criterion for inclusion, architectural, historical, and lifestyle elements are prioritized over geospatial coordinates. Geographic data is gathered during the research process by conducting literature evaluations that focus on the cultural heritage of Songkhla, specifically in the domains of architecture, history, and way of life. In addition to photographs, geographic coordinates of pertinent sites were gathered through fieldwork. The gathered information was classified into two categories: tangible cultural heritage locations, which include landscapes and architecture, and intangible cultural heritage, which includes food, traditions, customs, and beliefs. The data were structured using the WGS1984 datum in conjunction with the UTM grid coordinates. The research has yielded the creation of three systems: an automated response system, an online mapping system, and a geospatial database. The purpose of these platforms is to facilitate the distribution of knowledge regarding the cultural heritage of the ancient city of Songkhla. In order to acquaint community members and pertinent organizations with the online mapping system and the automated response system, instructional and knowledge transfer sessions were organized. User satisfaction with the systems as a whole is very high, according to the study, which reveals an average rating of 4.59 and a standard deviation of 0.54. These systems facilitate the extensive distribution of significant knowledge regarding worldwide cultural heritage, thereby aiding in the conservation of traditional ways of living and promoting a more profound affinity towards the region.