ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Emma Holmes]

Hi Lily, the article you picked is an important read. You made a great point, these women are amazingly brave, but they should not have to be. I agree with you in that gender equality can only be achieved through the help of men. It is so hard to see societies in which women are not treated equally, but I think we can use our new positions as young female teachers to lead by example. Leading by example, and showing young girls and boys, that women are just as capable and deserving of respect as men, is a much more effective way to instil a change of mindset, than lecturing people, who may be too closed off or affronted to hear what you are trying to say.
If you are interested in reading more about gender inequality, I highly recommend the book “the power of women” by Denis Mukwege. It’s a tough read but so worth it!

[Lily Hutt]

Hello, thank you for your response! Exactly, some people of older generations know no different and so we risk wasting time and energy trying to change their mindsets now. Children are open minded and do not recognise hierarchy until they are taught it, so best to teach them that they are equals and should always respect others no matter what.
Thank you for the book recommendation, I will definitely check it out! Have you read “Women don’t owe you pretty” by Florence Given?

[Molly Reather]

A fascinating summary Justin, particularly the ways in which you detail the action Professor Thon takes and his hopes for the future. I chose this comment as I know little to nothing about climate change despite being well aware of its effect in the ever changing, confusing seasons. This article has taught me more in two minutes than I’ve ever cared to learn before. You cannot change or care about what you do not know, ignorance is somewhat bliss and an easy way to get through life. This might have been fine for myself however it is the generations to come that will pay the price. Those before us polluted, the 21st century aims to repair. I wonder how many of the population in each-others home countries know in depth or even to an educated degree about climate change. I can say now, I was in the percentage with no information. An initiative needs to form, where the real-life case studies across the world should be taught in schools to educate the younger generation on the world we are leaving for them. With advice and action for the children who are as ever – the future. Thank you Justin, for sharing this article.

[Rodney Mettle]

The article I chose was “The Best Hiking Trails in Thailand: Which Will You Choose in 2023?” written by Clair Cathryn (https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/hiking-in-thailand/) on the topic of hikes in Thailand. Exploring the outdoors is a personal tried and true method of getting a ‘feel’ for a place. Hiking is special to me in that I get to experience new terrain and weather while being physically engaged all while existing in a liminal space between lodging and tourist attractions. I will first summarize the article and then share which of the suggested hikes I consider “best” for me to try before others.
The article writer, Cathryn, chooses eight of the best hikes in Thailand on metrics of beauty, difficulty, and novelty such as being situated near tourism. The hikes focused on beauty are #2 Doi Luang Chiang Dao, #4Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, #7 Tab Kak Hang Nak Mountain Nature Trail, and partially #8 Takkatan Caves Loop. Of these the writer baldy tells of birds, ferns, mosses, canopied foliaged, fog and sea clouds. #4 requires use of a guide which I believe adds dimensionality to any travelers search for beauty. Opportunities to connect with local Thai people in the outdoors gives chance to experience for trail culture and aesthetic.
The hikes based on difficulty are #3Phu Kradueng, and #6 Khao Chang Phueak. The former because of time investment and remoteness. The latter for it’s name meaning “Sharp Mountain Edge”. Khao Chang Phueak requires not only that one steel themselves for jagged terrain but to also plan ahead as only 60 entrants are allowed per day. It is here at number 6 in the article that I start to feel cared & looked-out for as a reader. In my experience hiking articles tend towards mellifluous copywriting that leave the intrepid hiker to insert themselves in the imagined scenarios. Cathryn however, succinctly includes pertinent details without weakening the magnetism of the Thailand outdoors.
The remaining hikes offer some novelty with #1 Doi Suthep Monk Trail and #5 Bangkok Phrapradaeng Loop. #1 leads hikers through two temples and is adjacent to the Chang Mai Zoo. While Cathryn does caution of steep trail portions, this reader loves a scramble and playfully pshaw’s at the 6km length. Closing off the article with the Bangkok Phrapradaeng Loop, this trail description reminds me of Central Park, New York. The novelty hear is the offer of both city and outdoor world. There is plant life, wooden architecture, and cafes for respite & refreshments.
The two “best” hikes I would seek first are #7 and #8. I chose these hikes for their promise of multifaceted terrain, beauty, remoteness from crowds, time investment, and nested trail options. I have not been inside many caves and the cathedral like descriptor of Takkatan is enticing. For the potential of weather and physical engagement, Tab Kak Hang Nak Mountain Nature Trail sounds like some of my best experiences hiking. Time wherein the commitment, e.g.4 hours, allows for me to pace and ruminate in the sweat and reward of my effort with a stunning vista…and a fresh change of shirt at the top. The promise of Thailands outdoors represent in my view a way to escape further INTO Thailand if and when the bustle ever gets rough.

[Molly Reather]

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/women-defy-thailand-s-gendered-buddhist-tradition-becoming-monks-n954596 This article follows Boodsabann Chanthawong, who joined the ranks of a growing number of women defying the Buddhism tradition to become ordained monks. She joins an all-female monastery outside Bangkok that is not recognised amongst the other monks. She led women of all ages to the Nakhon Pathom province to exchange their white garments for saffron robes.
Many women opt to travel overseas to be ordained, then return to Thailand to practice, however this is still not seen as acceptable to the tradition. The aspiring monks and novices of Thai women have fought against this since 1928. To which their only prevail was that they can ‘become white-clad Buddhist nuns, who follow a less-strict religious regimen than monks and are often relegated to housekeeping tasks in temples’. A truly shocking statement to hear is still apparent in 2023. Thailand is progressive in many ways, recently celebrating its first pride festival, which given the inequality towards women seems like smoke and mirrors to disguise the unwavering tradition. If ten male monks were to stand by ten female monks, a woman can be ordained. How sad that the entire population cannot fight for each other to welcome in a new tradition. By law male monks are forbidden to participate in this. The Thai women must rebel to be seen, while the Thai males are quiet and for this, they are seen to have the upmost respect for their country. A new world will come, things cannot stay the same forever – no matter how hard tradition tries. I look forward to visiting a female monk in Bangkok and being blessed by someone who has fought for her place and title.

[Rodney Mettle]

Hello Alexander,
Your article summary struck me from the perspective you took on food pricing affecting everyone, inclusive of foreigners. It is no surprise that inequality is everywhere and attempts to address and remedy specifics such as food access is rare. While it can be said that those who are unaffected by cost of living may see cost reduction as a mere ripple, the stratified layers of Thai nationals will surely appreciate it. The lingering question I have is if the Commerce Minister is successful stimulating the economy and lower prices of staple foods, will it encourage more tourism and collaborative foreign investors or be a genuine foothold to the disenfranchised

[Olivia Glover]

Piercing Thai culture (ajarn.com)
In the article “Piercing Thai Culture” on ajarn.com, it discusses how appearances may need to be toned down for the classroom. It highlights the importance of presenting oneself in a professional manner as a teacher, which may involve making certain adjustments to one’s appearance. The article emphasizes that while body piercings and other forms of self-expression are becoming more accepted in society, it’s crucial to consider the expectations and cultural norms within the educational setting. By toning down appearances, teachers can create a more conducive learning environment that promotes respect and professionalism.
It explores the impact of body piercings on traditional Thai culture. It discusses how body piercings, once seen as taboo, are now becoming more accepted among younger generations in Thailand. The article also highlights the influence of Western culture and social media in shaping these changing attitudes towards body modifications. Overall, it’s an interesting read about the evolving cultural dynamics in Thailand.
I found it interesting as there are similar issues when it comes to teaching in England too. Certain school will not accept any facial piercings and tattoos must be covered up and hair must be a natural colour, whereas other schools have no concern. As someone who is hoping to have a career in teaching, it can be difficult to express oneself in the way I want to whilst also remaining professional in an educational setting. Currently I only have my nose pierced and my hair is a natural colour, but in the future I am hoping to find a school that will be accepting of different ways of expression whilst still remaining professional… or I will cover up any potential tattoos 🙂

[Olivia Glover]

Hi Molly!
Your summary is really interesting 🙂 I am keen to go and teach English for these specific reasons and it is important to understand the positive impact it will have on a range of individuals. I am hoping that my role will help to support the big change and benefit people in Thailand to learn the English language and hopefully it will also inspire myself and others to learn the Thai language too and reduce the language barrier.

[Ahaththiya Amirthalingam]

Article: https://siam.recipes/blogs/news/essential-guide-to-thai-food-culture-and-eating-customs

The article “Essential guide to Thai food, culture and eating customs,” explores the diverse flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques that are used across the country. It also delves into the cultural significance of food in Thailand, including influences and traditions as well as eating customs. Thai cuisine has gained popularity worldwide over recent years and has been known to consist of a balance of five main flavours which includes saltiness, sweetness, bitterness, sourness and spiciness. A lot of Thai food includes fresh herbs and spices.
Thai cuisine varies depending on the area of the country. Northern Thailand is influenced by its surrounding countries, Burma and Laos. Their main dishes include using pork, spices and coconut milk as ingredients. Popular dishes in Northern Thailand include Khao Soi which is egg noodles with yellow curry, served with chicken, pork or beef) and Kaeng Hangle which is a type of pork curry that is flavoured with ginger, turmeric and tamarind. Isan, which is in the Northeastern part of Thailand, is influenced by Laos. Here, the locals used Pla ra (fermented fish) which is salty and sour to season their food. One of the most popular dishes in Isan is Som tam which is green papaya salad. Central Thai foods are heavily influenced by Chinese and Indian cuisine and are the most common, both in the country and worldwide. Dishes include Pad Thai, Green curry chicken and Tom yam soup. Most commonly used ingredient is coconut milk and includes a mix of sweet, sour, spicy and salty taste in their dishes. Southern Thailand dishes include seafood, coconut milk and palm sugar. Southern thailand food is said to be the most hot and spicy as a lot of curry paste and chilli is used. They are influenced by Malaysian food. Popular dishes include Panang curry and satay.
Eating customs in Thailand are very different compared to the west. Thai people use spoons and forks mainly. No knife is used as dishes are usually served in bite-size pieces. Chopsticks are mainly used with noodles or Chinese food. When going out in groups, Thai people usually order small dishes to share instead of buying a meal each. These are usually eaten with rice which is served individually.
As someone travelling to Thailand, it is important to have some knowledge on the local culture including the food and eating customs before travelling there. This article provides insight into this, which will help me or anyone travelling to Thailand gain a deeper understanding of the significance of certain dishes as well as being able to connect with the locals when visiting different parts of the country.

[Ahaththiya Amirthalingam]

Hi Molly, I found the article quite interesting as it was talking about the importance of learning the culture in the setting we will be working in. The article also discusses about the importance of appearances whilst being in a teaching environment. Teachers are models for the children in their society and community therefore understanding the culture and community is essential. It was interesting to see that once body piercings were taboo are now becoming acceptable. It’s lovely to see how the culture and are evolving and becoming accepting to the new societal norms and allowing children to explore their identity.

[Ahaththiya Amirthalingam]

Hi Olivia, I found the article quite interesting as it was talking about the importance of learning the culture in the setting we will be working in. The article also discusses about the importance of appearances whilst being in a teaching environment. Teachers are models for the children in their society and community therefore understanding the culture and community is essential. It was interesting to see that once body piercings were taboo are now becoming acceptable. It’s lovely to see how the culture and are evolving and becoming accepting to the new societal norms and allowing children to explore their identity.

[Molly Barron]

This seems like a really interesting piece that is extremely relevant to us as we move forward in our teaching journey. I have picked this summary because it is important to understand the learning environment we will be involved in and I found the comparison to your own experiences and other educational systems very interesting. Understanding the key learning focuses also sheds a light on what they value in their culture.

[Loredana Ilie]

Article: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2559096/pros-cons-of-thai-education

“Pros, cons of Thai education” examines the benefits and drawbacks of foreign students living in Thailand. It it provides details of the life of two girls, one from Cambodia and the other one from Mexico.
The article begins by underlining the fact that more overseas students have expressed interest in studying and relocating to Thailand since the pandemic, not only because of the country’s high standard of education but also because of the nice people, stunning scenery, and affordable cost of living.
On the one hand, Oeng Srenich, a Cambodian student who relocated to Bangkok, focuses on the benefits of attending a Thai University. Despite the fact that it represented a significant change in her environment, she emphasizes how easily she adjusted to the new way of life. She talks about the ease of getting around in Thailand compared to her native country due to the well-organized public transit system. She also compliments the educational institution that she is a part of, as it encourages students’ creative abilities and leadership skills.
On the other hand, Ana Carbonell, a Mexican student, focuses more on the challenges of living and studying in Thailand. Although she praises the locals’ friendliness and the country’s beautiful landscapes, she also speaks about the language barrier and differences from her country that she encountered along the way, such as the street’s structure, the university’s requirement to wear a uniform or the formal relationship between professors and students.
Overall, the pieces give good illustrations of the difficulties a person migrating to Thailand could run into as well as the benefits and unexpected discoveries along the route. This post has supported me in my decision as a traveller to Thailand by giving me a better picture of what to anticipate when relocating there.

[Loredana Ilie]

Hello Molly,
I have found your article to be really interesting. I am glad that someone decided to make an analysis on this side of the religion. I think both men and women should have the right to praise their God. You pointed out that the nation is by all accounts proceeding to advancement, while when it comes to religious traditions, it is as yet in light of custom and not doing many changes. I hope you managed to meet a female monk in Bangkok and good luck with your travelling plans.

[Aleksandra Lakus]

For my article, I chose https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2649594/si-thep-historical-park-declared-world-heritage-site, in which the author talks about including Thailand’s Si Thep Historical Park in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.
Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun province consists of the ancient city ruins of Si Thep and the Khao Khlang Nok and Khao Thamorat archaeological sites. It includes such noteworthy structures as a Khmer-style prang, Thailand’s only pyramid-shaped hill, Khao Klang Nok, and a Buddhist stupa called Khao Klang Nai, famous for its Dvaravati-style bas-relief and the small figurines around the structure’s foundation. Si Thep Historical Park is believed to be around 1,700 years old and has been listed as a national archaeological site since 1939. The site is encircled by a city wall and moat, and spans 4.7 kilometres and includes a unique two-layered layout reminiscent of the Dvaravati civilisation, which flourished between the 6th and 11th centuries.
Si Thep Historical Park is the newest addition to Thailand’s list of cultural sites which currently contains four sites, the others being Sukhothai Historical Park in Sukhothai province, Ayutthaya Historical Park in Ayutthaya and Ban Chiang Archaeological Site in Udon Thani.
It is great to hear that Thailand’s cultural list is expanding, as the country definitely has many historical sites to offer. This addition to UNESCO’s heritage list will not only certainly attract more tourists and therefore positively impact Thailand’s tourist sector, but it’s also a fantastic highlight for all people of Thailand and a proof that yet another site can be viewed as a national pride in a global context. I will definitely keep Si Thep Historical Park in mind when planning my trips around Thailand!

[Author]

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