ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Eleny Hooijer]

Hi Kamara,
It’s super interesting to learn a little more about the reason why ‘yes’ in Thai is “chai” and ‘no’ is “mai chai”. I feel it’s quite similar to Australia where we often say “yeah nah” as a softer way to say ‘no’, as the culture here is also much less confrontational than in Europe. Having moved from the Netherlands (where I grew up extremely direct with my language) to Australia, I had to get used to the passive language and adopt this myself to fit in. I feel that it will be a similar experience in Thailand where we will all have to be able to read body language more than the actual words spoken. Thank you for sharing the article!

[Pallavi Jhunjhunwala]

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-65858230

This article explores the taboo surrounding adoption and the potential drawbacks and effects of it on children. It specifically delves into the identity struggles faed by a Thai woman adopted into a Welsh family. She talks about having issues with finding where she belongs because whilst she speaks Welsh, she looks Asian.

As someone who has lived across 5 cities across India, lived in Malaysia for 3 years, and in the UK as an international student as well as having travelled to various countries including Thailand, I can certainly understand how someone would face issues with belonging to a specific country. In fact, when my students asked me where I have come from I said I was from the UK and they showed me a confused look. Immediately, I had to explain that although I am coming directly from the UK , I am originally from India. Indeed, this is minor in comparison to what the girl in the article faces. But I believe that is becoming more common with globalisation and so many people being used to so well traveled these days although I can barely imagine the woman’s scenario discussed in the article.

[Pallavi Jhunjhunwala]

This article provides a good understanding of the educational structure of Thailand and as with the author is incredibly relatable to me as well considering that I am teaching Thai students for the next 2 months as well. I think that it is good that the government has identified the seven areas of focus which all sound very interesting. However, I would be cautious in potentially considering if this is some sort of tokenism and whether the government has in fact taken substantive actions and steps in furtherance of outlining these fields of focus. I say this from experience of the Indian government’s National Education Policy rolled out in 202 which was heavily criticised for the same reason. Otherwise, I think the article’s other explanations are very convincing and reassuring as a step in the right direction for Thai education moving forward.

[Pallavi Jhunjhunwala]

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-65858230
This article explores the taboo surrounding adoption and the potential drawbacks and effects of it on children. It specifically delves into the identity struggles faed by a Thai woman adopted into a Welsh family. She talks about having issues with finding where she belongs because whilst she speaks Welsh, she looks Asian.
As someone who has lived across 5 cities across India, lived in Malaysia for 3 years, and in the UK as an international student as well as having travelled to various countries including Thailand, I can certainly understand how someone would face issues with belonging to a specific country. In fact, when my students asked me where I have come from I said I was from the UK and they showed me a confused look. Immediately, I had to explain that although I am coming directly from the UK , I am originally from India. Indeed, this is minor in comparison to what the girl in the article faces. But I believe that is becoming more common with globalisation and so many people being used to so well traveled these days although I can barely imagine the woman’s scenario discussed in the article.

[Julia Strzadala]

‘Chinese students a bonanza for listed international school’ 6th July 2023
Chinese students a bonanza for listed international school (bangkokpost.com)
This article discusses how a growing number of wealthy Chinese families are leaving their homeland to attend Thailand’s international school.It focuses on the profile of the Singapore International School of Bangkok. This article was published a few days ago which makes it very interesting to study as it is so current. Over the past 12 months, the shares of the school have risen by 216% on the Stock exchange of Thailand, making it one of this year’s top gainers among education service stocks globally! The reasons for this happening provided in this article are as follows; geographical proximity, lower cost of living, China’s restrictions on the western school system, the school fees are also shown to be quite a lot lower as compared with other countries. E.g. starting at $12,000 for the Singapore school in Bangkok, as compared with it costing $21,000 in Singapore itself.

I found this article while searching for articles relating to education, schools and students in Thailand. The reason this caught my interest is because I am currently placed in an International summer school, where the majority of my students are in fact from China. I found it an interesting read as I have wondered what the reasons would be for parents to choose to enroll their children to summer schools in Thailand and have their families live here all summer, and so I think the articles give some reasons which could be applied here. I think being at this school has been an adjustment for me as it seems to differ from how I have been prepared about how Thai students and people tend to be in education, attitudes and behaviors, as here I have the most close experience with students of a different nationality. Additionally, the attitudes in students and schools differ for example to my experience in a Thai state school with those students and teachers.

[Juliette Webb]

‘University sets its sights on tackling Thailand’s food waste problem’ – The Nation https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40029249

This article discusses the causes of Thailand’s food waste issue, of which Dr Racha Thepsorn estimates will continue to worsen if no measures are put in place. The article states that in 2022 alone, 17 million tonnes of food waste was produced by Thailand alone.

Dr Thepsorn attributes this with the production substandard quality of food, excessive quantities and over-production, consumers stockpiling and finally, the tourism industry. He also comments that the ‘buffet-style food business’ generates a large amount of food waste as vendors prepare large quantities to attract costumers, which in a lot of cases isn’t all consumed and thus thrown away.

The article then presents measures which can be taken, suggested by Dr Thepsorn; shortening the food supply chain, using methods such as drying or heat treatment to extend foods shelf life, upcycling food and proper disposal methods. As I will be living in Thailand for two months, there are some measures I will apply to minimise my food waste. Whilst Thai food is new and exciting, when trying new dishes I may adopt the approach of sharing plates between groups.

[Juliette Webb]

This article exposes an area of Thailand’s current society that I was unaware of. It is alarming that a third of the deaths among adolescents is due to suicide, and an issue that of course must be addressed to allow generations of teenagers to be the future. Perhaps one of the reasons of stress which leads to suicidal tendencies/poor mental health, is the stress of school, so whilst teaching I will create a space for my students were they are free to be themselves whilst learning. Whilst in Thailand I will be teaching primary school children, so whilst they are not quite teenagers yet, if I show them that kindness is productive in ensuring people stay happy, they can take this into their adolescence.

[Olivia Fox]

Hi Eleny, such an important topic and you summed it up amazingly. It’s rough for these kids to have grown up through the COVID 19 outbreak, being alone and then be thrown back into the real world and suffer through feelings overstimulation and anxiety. I feel like this is a global issue for kids now attending school too. I also think you’re so right, creating an open and friendly space for our students may encourage them to feel comfortable discussing such feelings with peers which can reduce that burden.

[Olivia Fox]

https://www.eiu.com/n/thailand-sustainability-policy-getting-its-act-together/
“Thailand’s sustainability policy: getting its act together” explores the effects of climate change on Thailand. The country is ranked as 9th in the “extreme risk” category when it comes to the effects of climate change. Threats to Bangkok, agriculture and therefore employment from extreme weather leaves the country in an unpredictable state for the future. Though their coal energy consumption ranks low about other Asia- Pacific countries (17% compared to 47%), Thailand’s renewable energy was only 6.3% of total energy consumption.
But growing concerns about the stability of oil and gas (from Ukraine and Myanmar) have driven Thailand to keep finding sustainable options. In November 2022 Thailand a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30‑40%. This combined with a push for Thailand’s four main economical industries, means that those involved in each sector will have a need to make a push for sustainable energy as their industry is now invested.
Public transport like buses are aiming for a low-emission overhaul. The article suggests public transport will have to be more reliable, efficient and introduce electric options to not rely on fuel as much. This is something I believe globally should be looked into and taken more seriously, if transport sectors can provide reliable and efficient public transport, more people would be inclined to take it, therefore reducing emissions. While in Thailand I think keeping my energy consumption down will be important like keeping lights when necessary or not using the air conditioner if there is a better option. It’s something to think about in the classroom as well.

[Alice Stiles]

Article: https://www.unicef.org/thailand/stories/education-21st-century

This article highlights the need for education to adapt with the rapidly changing globalised environment, not as a single reform but as a continuous effort. Technology is constantly changing and the modes in which we work, live and educate must reflect this progression in order to respond to the needs of young people in our society. Drop- out rates and a lack of foundational skills appear to be a concern in some schools in Thailand. Ultimately, this narrows career options for many Thai students to the labour market, when perhaps a wider skill-set could open up so many more options.
Indeed, this is a current aim for Thailand and would come under Thailand’s 20-year National Strategy. The main aim and challenge that faces Thailand is the application of change in the classroom, out into the country. This relies on providing children and the younger generation with applicable skill sets such as critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. The aim is for the children to thrive in the world today and in the many years to come. This article emphasises the need for viewing education through a competency-based lens.
I find this article interesting and relevant as I am going into Schools where I can learn about the education system here in Thailand, and what goals they are currently looking to achieve. I think it is important when planning lessons to incorporate these critical thinking and problem solving skills. This is a current aim in the Thai curriculum and a conscious effort needs to be made to make sure it is continuously updated with the progression of the world.

[Alice Stiles]

Hi Juliette,
I find the article you’ve chosen really interesting and relevant, especially as we know food waste exacerbates the climate change crisis, which is also a major concern in Thailand. As you have highlighted, tourism appears to have a major impact on food waste. It is so important that this has been emphasised in the article. Although we are going to a new country to try new things and especially some good food, I agree it is important that we keep this in mind and minimise our food waste. Sharing meals to try different food is a great idea and also fits in well with the Thai culture!

[Daniel Green]

Hi Alice,
Great article, and I completely agree with your point that we should be incorporating activities centred around both problem solving and critical thinking. Being aware of the Thai education systems and some issues it may be facing is important for us as we will be a part of it no matter how small.

Thanks,
Daniel.

[Daniel Green]

Article Link: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20170123-where-people-dont-like-to-say-no
Title: “Where people don’t like to say no”
Author: Laurel Tuohy
This article explains that in Thai culture, the word “no” is often avoided. Instead, Thai people often use the phrase “mai chai”, which translates to “not yes”. Tuohy explains that Thailand is a collective culture, and thus by saying “not yes”, the speaker displays a sense of “regret at not being able to consent to what” was asked. A speaker may also perform a “wai”, a small bow, when saying “mai chai” to further display their regret. Tuohy also suggests that “Thai people tend to dance around confrontations”, by saying yes but really meaning no.
The author also raises the point that “apologies are uncommon in Thai”. To apologise is seen as one admitting they have made a mistake. The result of this is the individual apologising would “lose face,”, which is one of the worst things that can happen to you in many Asian societies” as stated by Tuohy. The author quotes an intercultural communications professor by the name of Rachawit Photiyarach. Photiyarcah states that “It is difficult to regain your face when you have done something stupid or inappropriate in the eyes of many Thais”. Therefore, to avoid this loss of face a Thai person may never acknowledge any mistakes they may make.
As someone living in the UK, the act of owning up to one’s mistakes is viewed as an individual being honest and showing remorse for their actions. The article has highlighted one cultural difference, with the importance of “not losing face” being a priority in Thai culture, whereas in Western culture owning up to mistakes is seen as more favourable. The article has also educated me to be weary of the impact negatives words (for example the word “no”) may have on Thai people.

[William Sawtell]

Article Link: https://www.chiangmailocator.com/wiki-traffic-rules-in-thailand-and-how-to-avoid-traffic-accidents-p169
The article I have chosen goes into detail about the importance of understanding traffic rules and the way people drive while in Thailand. The beginning of the page discusses the fatality rate and its relation to tourists. A large number of incidents occur during major holidays where the country is at its busiest. Many of these deaths are from tourists who are too trusting of the traffic rules and don’t expect people to stray from them. The article talks about how the majority of Thai people only pay attention to what is in their immediate vision while on the road, which is what leads to confusion with foreigners. In most countries you must remain acutely aware of your peripheral vision and ensure you’re not disrupting another section of the road when moving into it. However, in Thailand there is an implicit rule that the responsibility of safety depends on the person behind you. Since you cannot see the person behind you, they must ensure they do not interfere with your driving. This allows the person in front to make mistakes and drive badly without jeopardising the safety of others. This mentality where you adapt to people around you rather than follow a strict schedule and set of rules is used throughout the Thai culture and is an important lesson to learn when travelling, even off the road. Oftentimes laws are seen more as guidelines rather than rules that must be rigidly enforced.

The latter section of the article emphasises the importance of applying your understanding of how Thai people treat traffic to your time spent on the road. Firstly, it talks again about the range of responsibility and how you should focus on your range of responsibility while driving. It also says that you should make your moves on the road as predictable as possible and drive so that you always remain visible to the people behind you. Not relying on the rules but anticipating that they will be broken will create a more cautious and therefore safer way of manoeuvring on the road. For myself while travelling, this article has taught me to be aware of the way Thai people drive on the road which will be useful for time that I will spend walking around. Although I will not be driving, crossing the road, and knowing how drivers around you move will be useful for navigating cities. Understanding the way Thai people treat traffic rules has also helped me to gain a greater understanding of their mentality towards daily activities.

[William Sawtell]

Hi Daniel,
Your article emphasises one of the main differences in conversation between western cultures and Thai culture. As you have stated in your summary, confrontation is often avoided and admittance of your mistakes is seen as humiliating. To me this is something I will struggle with as I often use apologies as a way of “saving face” rather than “losing face”. I find this subtle difference in culture very interesting and it will be something that I will have to adapt to. This difference might stem from the way that Thai people use actions and gifts as a way of showing they have changed or are sorry, rather than just using words which might not have genuine intention. Some might say that this is a better way of approaching negative interactions, as often in the west we use apologies as a way of giving temporary reassurance rather than getting to the root of the problem.
Many thanks,
William

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