Challenges and Opportunities for Huachiew Chalermprakiet University Students within the GIG Economy

Abstract

This study explores the challenges and opportunities faced by Huachiew Chalermprakiet University (HCU) students within the gig economy, where the rapid expansion of digital platforms and flexible work models in Thailand has led more university students to engage in part-time and freelance work for income supplementation and experience gain. While the gig economy brings benefits like career exploration, income generation, employment access, and skill accumulation, students encounter obstacles such as study–work imbalance, lack of rights and interests protection, unstable income, and health-related stress. Through an online questionnaire, 396 valid responses were collected from HCU students, and descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine their understanding of the gig economy, perceived challenges and opportunities, and influencing development factors. Results show that six variables—personal will, bargaining power, platform fairness, education quality, laws and regulations, and work experience—significantly affect outcomes, including study–work balance, income, health, brand building, and rights and interests protection. In contrast, gender and age exhibit no significant influence. The findings offer insights for HCU students to make informed decisions, support universities and platforms in formulating targeted strategies, and provide academic value for future research on student participation in the gig economy.