Improving English education in Thailand by modeling classroom behavior

• Main Authors: Hai, Yang, Harris, Matthew, Jitklang, Pranom
• Format: Book Section
• Language: English
• Published: Faculty of Communication and Modern Languages, Universiti Utara Malaysia 2007
• Subjects: LB Theory and practice of education; PE English
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/3277/1/H1.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/3277/; http://staf.uum.edu.my/tleia2/

English classroom behavior across Thailand is highly influenced by long-held traditions, culture and values. By comparing Thai secondary education classroom behavior with that of Chinese classes working at the same level, we have constructed a model of Thai students’ English classroom behavior. Comparison is made from surveys conducted by schools with students demonstrating similarly wide range of performance and ability in English. We also suggest effective ways to improve English teaching in Thailand for both Thai and foreign teachers of English by incorporating this model with the theories of J. Kunin, so as to help avoid culture conflict, motivate students’ interest and make better use of existing standards and practices.