Integrating Thai Classical Dance and Digital Platforms: A Creative Model for Youth Health Learning and Cultural Sustainability

Introduction: In the digital era, AI and digital technologies are reshaping youth health, yet much online content remains generic and culturally detached from Thai youth. Nātasilpa (traditional Thai dance), deeply rooted in Thai heritage, promotes holistic well-being- physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Integrating this art form with digital platforms offers a creative, culturally relevant approach to health learning. This study proposes a model combining Thai dance with YouTube, TikTok, fitness apps, and AI tools to enhance youth health literacy, foster well-being, and preserve Thai cultural traditions in the digital age.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed health learning model in promoting physical, mental, and social well-being among youth, and to analyze the relationship between digital technology use and the preservation of cultural heritage through Thai classical dance.

Methods: This developmental research creates a health learning model through Thai dance on digital platforms in three phases: (1) literature review on health, dance, digital technology, and AI; (2) data collection from 21 university students (aged 18-20) via questionnaires and interviews on learning behavior, health awareness, and cultural engagement; and (3) design of a participatory AI-based model to enhance interaction and content delivery.

Results: The study is expected to yield an innovative and modern health learning model that integrates well-being, Thai classical dance, and digital technology. This approach aims to improve both physical and mental health while offering a new framework for cultural preservation. AI will be applied responsibly and efficiently to support the model’s sustainable expansion across communities and digital platforms. The model is inspired by the work of Pichet Klunchun, a Silpathorn Award-winning artist recognized internationally for reinterpreting Thai classical dance in contemporary and culturally relevant ways.

Conclusion: This paper introduces a health learning model that integrates Asian traditional dance with digital technology and AI to enhance youth well-being-physically, mentally, and culturally. Using a developmental research design, the study explores youth learning on platforms like TikTok and YouTube and develops AI-supported activities for movement analysis and interactive guidance. The model aims to be accessible, engaging, and scalable, fostering healthy behaviors while preserving cultural identity.