ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Tariro Hombarume]

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/11-things-you-should-know-about-thai-culture?ref=languagebarrow.com

This article provides information on Thai culture. This is of particular interest to someone like myself who is about to live in Thailand and presents very helpful in preparing to immerse myself in Thai culture. The article notes interesting features of Thai culture, such as using the word pee when conversing with someone senior as a sign of respect; this helps understand the language and the Thai culture, where elders are greatly respected. Furthermore, the article delves deeper and highlights the importance of respect, shame and face in Thai culture. The report further lists other ways of conforming to respectable behaviour in Thailand, such as bringing a small gift when going to someone’s home, removing your shoes upon entrance and the wai, which is a respectful greeting involving a bow with the palms together. Furthermore, patriotism is very important in Thailand, and many Thai people will express a love for their country. Furthermore, the ‘land of smiles’ is a place where the local people rarely express extremely negative emotions, with the term a common phrase being ai bpen rai, which translates loosely as no worries,

Due to these cultural differences, the article states that in Thailand saying maybe is more socially acceptable than saying no therefore, it is likely that a Thai person may say yes when they really mean no to something. The article also highlights religion in Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, with the next largest religion being Islam. Furthermore, Thailand is a place of superstitions, with many people believing in ghosts and spirits. Before planning a wedding, buying a property, or test-driving a car, it is traditional to contact a fortune teller or a monk for an auspicious date. The article then highlights the importance of monks in Thai culture due to the large Buddhist population it is likely to see temples all around Thailand as well as monks. Monks are highly respected in Thai culture. The article ends by informing us about the cultural significance of body parts, with the feet being the dirtiest and the head being the most sacred thus, interactions with these body arts can dente disrespect however, Thailand is not an overtly touchy-feely society, says the article and thus someone like myself reading this is likely to stay away from PDA altogether!

[Yasmin Butt]

Article – https://www.worldpackers.com/articles/teaching-english-in-thailand

Teaching English in Thailand is described as a transformative adventure, offering unique rewards and experiences. Whether you’re a native or non-native English speaker, there are teaching opportunities available, ranging from formal roles to conversational practice. Here are some key points:

Impactful Experience: Teaching English in Thailand is not just personally rewarding but also beneficial to Thai students, as English proficiency opens up new opportunities for them locally and internationally.
Personal Growth: Teaching abroad challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to a different culture, and fosters personal development.
Diverse Opportunities: Thailand has a high demand for English teachers, offering diverse teaching opportunities across the country.
Affordability: The cost of living in Thailand is significantly lower than in North America or Europe, making it accessible for teachers on modest incomes.
Cultural Immersion: Living among locals provides a unique insight into Thai customs and traditions, offering a richer cultural experience than typical tourism.
Travel Opportunities: Thailand’s diverse landscapes and affordability make it an ideal place for exploring during weekends or school breaks.
Teaching English Programs: Platforms like Worldpackers facilitate volunteering opportunities in Thailand, connecting volunteers with hosts who need their language teaching skills.
Budget-Friendly Living: You can comfortably live in Thailand on a budget of USD 600 to 800 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location.
Cultural Understanding: Learning basic phrases in the local language and respecting Thai customs enhances your experience.
Travel Tips: Thailand offers various transportation options for traveling within the country, and it’s generally safe for travelers. Tips include purchasing insurance, eating street food, shopping at local markets, using public transport, and getting a local SIM card.

In summary, teaching English in Thailand is not just a job but an opportunity for personal growth, cultural immersion, and making a positive impact while enjoying the beauty and affordability of this diverse country.

[Mia Nesbeth]

https://queerintheworld.com/lgbt-rights-in-thailand/

The article discusses the complex landscape of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance in Thailand, particularly focusing on the disparities between the experiences of foreign LGBTQ+ tourists and the local LGBTQ+ population. It highlights that while Thailand is often perceived as a haven for LGBTQ+ travelers, with vibrant communities and events like Bangkok Pride, there are still challenges faced by the local LGBTQ+ community. Despite legal protections against discrimination and the decriminalization of same-sex sexual activity, issues like the lack of gender identity recognition and the absence of legal recognition for same-sex marriages persist in the country.

As someone traveling to or living in Thailand, this article underscores the importance of being well-informed and cautious about the LGBTQ+ landscape in the country. While major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket are known to be more accepting, it’s essential to recognize that not all areas or individuals may share the same level of acceptance. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to stay connected with local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and seek up-to-date information and advice. Additionally, respecting local customs and traditions while remaining vigilant about personal safety is crucial for both tourists and residents in Thailand. The article encourages a balanced approach of enjoying Thailand’s diversity while staying informed and respectful of the local LGBTQ+ community and its challenges.

[Poppy Sophia Clarke]

Thailand welcomes an average of 11.15 million travellers a year into its beautiful country. The beautiful islands, culture and hospitality make it a key tourist destination. However, health and safety must be considered whilst visiting Thailand. One of these key considerations is to receive pre-travel vaccinations for protection against the disease which can be transmitted via the bite of an infected animal. An article written by Wilaiwan Petsophonsakul and Inoue explores the one health approach the Thai government have adopted in attempts to eliminate infection and spread of rabies in humans from animals by 2030.

The model referred to in this article is termed the “Chiang Mai Model” which involves reducing the prevalence of rabies in the Chiang Mai province which is one of the top tourist areas in Thailand. One health approaches to reducing disease include three factors of control: animal, human and the environment. The Chiang Mai Models goals include increasing education of Rabies and risks associated with the disease, encourage vaccination for protection of rabies in dogs at birth and encourage vaccination in humans by setting up sterilization clinics. Another goal was to control dog populations within larger populated areas to reduce likelihood of exposure to dogs that may be infected with rabies.
This article relates to those travelling to Thailand. For example, in the United Kingdom it is common to pet a dog in the street without the fear of being exposed to a life-threatening disease such as rabies. However, in Thailand visitors should be cautious when it comes to contact with the animal life as one bite could be fatal if an individual has not been fully vaccinated or is able to receive the appropriate healthcare rapidly.

Poppy Clarke

Citation: Wilaiwan Petsophonsakul and Inoue, S. (2023). One Health Approach to Control Canine Rabies in Thailand: The Chiang Mai Model. CABI eBooks, pp.34–46. doi:https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800622975.0004.

[Poppy Sophia Clarke]

This article analysis provides a positive and insightful way to view teaching English abroad that gives a good representation of the benefits of travelling abroad to work. However, another thing to consider is although there are many benefits to making the leap abroad for both personal and professional development there are challenges to face such as culture shock and how this can affect individuals travelling to a completely new location miles away from home.

[Joe Porter]

This article discusses Thailand’s fascinating political system. In the most recent elections, a party heavily supported by disgruntled youths won the election with 14.2 million votes. The Move Forward Party is a progressive anti-military group with mass support from Gen Z’s and millennials. Having learnt a little about Thai culture the fact the youth are finding their voices is a new scenario for Thailand to navigate. Although the military backed establishment performed poorly in the elections, interestingly, the unelected senate who choose the Prime Minister was chosen by the military Junta therefore, their grip on power continues to hold strong. However, the article makes clear the youth’s disgruntlement at the elite will continue.
In terms of living in Thailand, the risk of demonstrations may be reasonably low but with the anger the youth feel and the positive election results for the Move Forward Party there is a risk of protests erupting. Therefore, as a new Thai resident I must be aware of this sensitive issue. One I must stay away from protests as they could be dangerous especially for a foreigner and two, I can imagine this is a passionate and dividing issue. So, speaking about this topic to the wrong people could cause offence.
https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/59894/1/the-move-forward-party-thailand-youth-election-pita-limjaroenrat

[Joe Porter]

Hi Poppy, as someone from the UK that’s really interesting as we don’t have a huge stray dog population like many other places. I’d never heard of the Chang Mai Model before, but its good to hear they increasing awareness of the risk through education. I did see Thailand has stray dog population of 750,000! which is huge so its obviously a problem all over the country and it will be interesting to see if the Chang Mai Model is effective.

[Paige Blair]

“Effects of Tourism on Thailand” This article delves deep into the reality of tourism in Thailand, I chose this topic due to my personal love for travel. As much as I love exploring the world I do often wonder about the impact it may be having. In this article they touch on both the positive and negative effects, Albeit swaying more towards the negative. Over tourism has become an issue in recent years with an influx of travellers. Many of Thailand’s coastlines/beaches have now been closed due to the havoc irresponsible tourist have wreaked on the area. For example Maya bay, which previously issued a tourist ban in 2018 due to disarray caused to the areas delicate ecosystem. The area is now slowly coming back to life.

The article also touches base on how tourism has an impact on the wildlife specifically Chiang Mai, more and more tourist means more funding for the questionably ethical elephant sanctuaries, where tourist will pay to ride them.

Of course with tourism comes money and this can have a positive impact on the country, However I believe an even better way to help the effect of tourism, is to be mindful and respectful, Don’t fund those Elephant rides, don’t ruin the coastlines with rubbish and irresponsible snorkelling/boat rides. Be considerate to the country that you are in. It is someone’s home and you are there to experience the beauty of it, not ruin it.

[Paige Blair]

Hi Rose, I found the summary of this article very informative!. and interesting to see all the issues with todays educational system in Thailand, Highlighting what we can, as teachers and the government, change to create a more effective and positive learning environment for the students of Thailand. Brilliant summary and something which I think we should all take into consideration.

[Jodie Davies]

https://i-d.vice.com/en/article/4axmgm/thailand-pop-music-artists
‘Young T-pop stars are disrupting Thailand’s conservative society’
This article details how young Thai artists are challenging societal standards of the T-pop image, by celebrating the underrepresented diversity of Thai people and culture. The article, hence, begins with the history of Thai music and its transition towards Western genres. From the popularity of Suntaraphorn and a ‘luk krung’ style of using Western musical instruments in the late 1930s, right up until the 1990s Joey Boy and Bakery music label. Which saw the emergence of hip hop, that still has a profound impact on Thai music today. The article goes on to interview up-and-coming Thai artists about their inspirations towards their music.
While artists have faced criticism for straying away from traditional Thai music, their interview with artist VKL, reveals that his Isaan accent and culture is very much still present in his music and is the source of inspiration alongside hip-hop. Another example is rapper Youngohm’s album ‘Bankok Legacy’, detailing his life going to school in the temple in a working-class neighbourhood. Artist SONOFO further comments on the wider impact this has on global audiences, “Pouring our culture into our music also helps the rest of the world to better understand our culture.”
Although there is an embrace for new Thai music, the article also details the struggles of Thai artists to make it in the industry, especially as there is still an ideal image they must uphold. This is detailed through artists like, Pavida Moriggi, SILVY, who was criticized about her weight on the idol program ‘Star’. She talks about the profound effect this had in coming to peace with her body after the experience. Young Thai artists are therefore shown to go against the grain and diversify the Asian beauty standards in the media. Exemplar, Nalin Satearrujikanon, a DJ and fashion designer who advocates for diversity and celebrates trans kids in Thailand, creates her own shirts with the label ‘The Future is Ladyboy’. After these interviews, the article details the exciting prospect of Thai music with the diversity of up-and-coming artists in the industry, and how they are unafraid of going against societal normalities within the entertainment industry.
It is interesting that this article is featured on iD, a global fashion platform, which goes to show that the new generation of Thai artists are creating precedence for themselves and are embracing Western influence, while also retaining their Thai cultural identity. When I read the article, it felt no longer like Western music had been taken over by Thai artists, but Thai artists use Western inspiration to enhance their own cultural sound. It is also interesting to discover new artists, unlike very famous ones like Lisa from BlackPink. I now have more knowledge on the importance of Thai music and artistry, that reminisces on the political sentiment of young Thai people to be outspoken and challenge the status quo.

[Jodie Davies]

Hi Mia, this article sounds very interesting and informative as someone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community. It is insightful and upsetting knowing that there is still a lack of legalisation for same-sex marriage and gender identity. Which is also especially surprising, with how notable the country is in celebrating LGBTQ+ in the media. This article will keep me informed and aware, while also inspiring me to continue to follow developments of LGBTQ+ activists who are pushing for legal recognition.

[Sophie Mccain]

Assignment 2

Mental health and burnout among teachers in Thailand – Article available at: JHR-05-2020-0181_proof 404..416 (emerald.com)

Between 2005 and 2017 global depression and anxiety levels increased by 18% and 15%. In Thailand 2,885,221 people were found to suffer with depression and 2,275,400 were experiencing anxiety. Globally, teachers’ mental health is poor due to the numerous stressors they experience, such as, working long hours, having a large class size, not enough time to prepare for lessons, poor working conditions, role conflict, low salaries, lack of resources and poor job satisfaction overall. Teachers who are struggling with their mental health are unable to find the motivation to create productive classroom environments, often making student learning ineffective. This often then leads to a burnout where teachers experience emotional exhaustion, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and personal accomplishments. Often teachers in Thailand do not have access to resources and training that allows them to experience high self-efficiency when teaching and they are often seen as second parents but they still don’t think they do enough. Some studies show that teacher resilience is one solution to prevent experiencing these issues; but how resilient a person is dependent on their work environment as well as their internal attributes. For example, teachers who are supported by and have positive relationships with their colleagues, pupils, parent, family and friends are more likely to be resilient.

Thai culture revolves around community! This means that family members, neighbours and friends will all support one another, therefore promoting a positive mental wellbeing as nobody ever feels like they need to struggle alone. However, when Thailand became industrialised, the younger generation of Thai families moved to the inner cities where there were more job opportunities, disrupting this support network. A study reported that 16% of participants’ children migrated to another city, resulting in those left in urban areas experiencing poor mental health. Unfortunately, unlike western countries, Thailand is still unfamiliar with psychology and mental health resources which means that residents who are suffering have minimal treatment offered to them. The treatment offered is usually delivered by monks or nurses instead of trained professionals. There is also a negative stigma still attached to struggling mentally in Thailand, meaning less people admit they may be struggling.

Overall, this study acknowledges the stresses teachers experience daily in their profession which can negatively impact their mental health. Furthermore, it also highlights that there needs to be further studies conducted focusing on Thai teachers and their struggles with mental health, mostly because their attitudes towards it are negative and they do not have the resources to fully understand the psychological complexities of mental health.

[Sophie Mccain]

Hi Yasmin. There were some important points highlighted that explain a bit more of what to expect as a teacher going over to teach English and some points I never would have thought about. Interesting article!

• This reply was modified 2 years, 7 months ago by Sophie Mccain.

[Hollie Lloyd]

Assignment 2: Article Analysis
https://asia.nikkei.com/Opinion/Thailand-s-problems-begin-in-the-classroom
Article: Thailand’s problems begin in the classroom.
This article begins by summarising some of the major issues that affect the Thai economy in the present day. These include the fact that there has been recent economic and political unrest, as well as a lack in skills within the general population that prevents the progression of advanced labour and technologies. It shares statistics to support this that include: ‘Between 2002 and 2019, its share of foreign direct investment into the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations fell from 21% to 3%, while outward FDI rose from $170 million to $10.1 billion’, ‘One-third of 15-year-olds are functionally illiterate, rising to 47% in some rural villages, according to a 2019 World Bank report.’, and ‘14% of Thai workers had the skills to work with advanced technologies’.
The article then goes on to describe Thailand’s goals. These include turning Thailand into a more productive economy. However, this will be done by outsourcing labour to highly skilled foreigners. Thailand will do this with plans to introduce the ten-year Visa, and a promise of axing foreigners at the same rate as the Thai population. However, the article then adds to this by stating that although this may prove ‘attractive’, property ownerships restrictions and ‘the difficult path to citizen ship’ may lead this goal to be difficult to achieve. As well as this goal, the Thai government has expanded the budget for research and development, and it has since exceeded the 1% of gross domestic product for the first time since 2017. Despite this, the article states that this would not have any significant impact for another decade or so. As well as this, The article suggests that, as FDI has risen from 170 million to 10.1 billion USD, the future of Thailand may be bleak should they not expand upon the development of skills and critical thinking of their own population – pupils especially.
The article writes of Thailand’s goal to have representation in the global top 100 Universities, but none of Thailand’s most sought after Universities are within the top 200, so this task may also prove difficult. This links to the main issue the article explores, which is that the education system in Thailand does not give way to allowing students to have high level critical thinking. A study by an independent government agency, known as the Thai Research Fund, showed that ‘Just 2% of students passed in a 2016 evaluation of logical thinking and analytical skills’. As well as the previous statistic as one third of Thai’s 15 year-olds being functionally illiterate, this article highlights that the education system is one of the main causes of the lack of skills within the work force, which is preventing Thailand from developing at the rate it could be.
University students also feel this way, as there have been many student-led protests regarding the current government regime and the controversial dissolution of the Future Forward Party. This unrest has only been worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic as ‘400,000 students reported no job prospects at the end of 2020’. The article writes that Bangladesh is in a similar situation to Thailand, however they are combatting this by redesigning their curriculum to promote analytical and critical thinking skills. The current education system in Thailand has ‘long prioritised rote learning and conformity — even university students wear uniforms — over critical thinking’. Two major educational policies include the requirement to ‘indoctrinate’ students to observe and believe in traditional values and the superiority of the Monarchy. The article suggests that, should Thailand follow in Bangladesh’ footsteps and redesign the curriculum to allow for more free thinkers and the development of critical thinking, Thailand’s future as an independent and developing nation will be bright.

[Hollie Lloyd]

Hi Sophie, this is an interesting summary about the existing mental health support in Thailand. Mental health is incredibly important, and it is interesting to read about how it can affect teachers due to the long hours they work and the workload they face. Thai culture includes strong links between family and friends, so it is good that there are dedicated support circles for such situations, but it is also remarkably interesting that personal resilience is the most commonly thought way to combat poor mental health.

[Author]

Posts