THE TRENDS OF DRIVING INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH THROUGH AI IN THAI SOCIETY TOWARD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE ERA OF SOCIETY 5.0

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: 1) To study the current state of interdisciplinary research in Thailand, particularly in the dimension of applying artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the research process; 2) To analyze trends in driving AI-enabled interdisciplinary research within the context of Thai society transitioning into the Society 5.0 era; 3) To evaluate the potential, opportunities, and limitations of utilizing AI to support interdisciplinary research at both policy and operational levels in Thailand; and 4) To propose guidelines or policy recommendations to promote AI-driven interdisciplinary research toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study employed a mixed-methods research design, including quantitative analysis through questionnaires and qualitative analysis through in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), while qualitative data from interviews were analyzed using content analysis. The research findings were synthesized to provide policy recommendations for promoting AI-driven interdisciplinary research. Findings:

1. Current state of interdisciplinary research in Thailand: The use of AI in research is widely accepted in Thailand, particularly in data management and analysis, which allows for faster and more accurate results and reduces human error. AI has been applied across various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental studies.
2. Trends in driving AI-enabled research in the context of Society 5.0: There is a clear increase in AI-driven research. AI facilitates the management of big data and in-depth analysis, resulting in highly accurate research outcomes and improved predictive capabilities.
3. Evaluation of potential, opportunities, and limitations: AI enhances research quality and reliability and can address societal and environmental issues. However, limitations remain regarding personnel capabilities and dependence on experts.
4. Policy recommendations for promoting AI-driven interdisciplinary research toward SDGs: Supporting AI-enabled research for SDGs should include fostering collaboration across disciplines, allocating government funding, providing continuous AI training for personnel, and improving government policies to fully support AI utilization.