ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Shydaea Townes]

https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/how-to-meditate-bangkok-temples-wellness/index.html

In this article, it discusses the Buddhist monasteries in Bangkok. The monasteries teach people how to meditate, how to display the proper dedication, and body movements such as: how to fold your legs, how to sit, how to breathe, etc. The most popular meditation style in Thailand is mindfulness, also known as the ancient Pali. It guides you in your thoughts, words and actions – focusing inward to promote self control and keeping harm away from others. This way of thinking is what drew me to Thai culture and meditation as I feel this is a way of life beneficial not only for oneself but for all. I also like how instead of releasing thoughts, they are accepted as real and true and should be processed through a ‘flow’ rather than be seen as distractions.
The article also talks about the health benefits that meditation provides. It teaches one how to stay in the moment and to release worries or things you cannot control. I feel drawn to this as well because it’s easy to become overwhelmed with anxiety and stress in today’s world. The article states meditation has been proven to lower blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and overall mental health. Thailand has a lot of meditation centers that have recently reopened (closed due to COVID) that are welcoming to foreigners, other races, and different creeds/religious backgrounds. I think meditation is a wonderful tool that is not costly or time consuming. On my travels I intend to learn more about these practices and to visit temples and shrines to become more aware of spirituality.

[Rosemanie James]

Hi Anna,
your article response was intriguing. I am a big fan of Indian and Chinese cuisines. One of the many things I love when it come to exploring new culture would be the environment and the food. It is wholesome to see individuals uniting and exchanging details about their day over a meal. I cannot wait to try many foods in Thailand. I hope you find a dish that you throughly enjoy and perhaps integrate in your own style of cooking.

[Rosemanie James]

Hello Shydaea,
I believe our articles responses are very similar. I had the opportunity to explore the religion that is practiced in Thailand, and within the article it briefly touch based on meditation. As being a member of society, I often find myself easily stressed with many tasks. There are often many outlets to deal with stresses, however one of the best methods I find that works for me is meditating. I am not completely equipped with the tools of meditating, therefore I am excited to learn more about the process of tapping in an improving my health and my spirituality. I cannot wait to see the temples!!
safe travels!

[Rosemanie James]

Article: https://www.history.com/topics/religion/buddhism
The Article that I have chosen is based on religion, more specifically Buddhism. How did
Buddhism come to develop? What are ways to practice this belief? What purpose did
buddhism serve for individuals who took part in practicing this belief?
Buddhism was developed in the fifth century BCE, by Siddharta Gautama. Gautama
spent a significant amount of time searching for meaning in his existence. Being born
into wealth, Gautama had many advantages of creating and cultivating a lifestyle that
would enable his continuation of wealth. However, Gautama yearned for knowledge of
self control in regards to indulgence and mastering one’s mind. Therefore Gautama
renounced his traditional lifestyle and sought after enlightenment. Many individuals
believe Gautama’s enlightenment was found under the Bodhi tree in India. This
enlightenment rapidly spread from “westward to Afghanistan and through Central Asia
eastward to the Pacific — to China, Korea, Japan, and what we now call Viet Nam” (
What intrigues me as a traveler is the uniqueness of each country. For example; each
country has a different government, different laws and many practice different religions.
All of which are key components of structuring a country. How are these laws formed?
Where does religion stem from? What purpose did having these laws and religion serve
for citizens? We can conclude that the purpose of the law is to establish and maintain
order amongst citizens within their particular society. Religion is valued due to the fact
that it may serve as comfort and guidance to individuals who want meaning to their life.
Similarly, both the laws and the religion of a country create culture. Through creating
culture, we can establish traditions. Traditions are practices that are repetitive and
consistent throughout time.
In Thailand Buddhism is the central religious practice. Buddhism is a
“non-theistic faith with no god or deity to worship” This is a more philosophical way of
life, rather than organized religion that is primarily studied in the west. Some key ways
to practice Buddhism are “ worshiping in temples or in homes, embracing the concepts
of karma (the law of cause and effect) and reincarnation (the continuous cycle of
rebirth), as well as, avoiding self-indulgence but also self-denial. The importance of
these practices sought to bring individuals enlightenment; inner peace and wisdom of
their current life and the after life. This article highlights the importance of Buddhism and
how it structures Thailand and the many ways individuals can practice Buddhism. I am
certainly excited to learn more about this belief, visiting temples, and meeting
individuals like minded in spirituality

[Anna Jevons]

It’s critical to take these insights into account, as well as the requirement for a fulfilling and beneficial impact on students, if you intend to teach in Thailand. Maintaining student engagement and fostering successful learning can be achieved by modifying teaching strategies to suit a range of learning preferences and making use of readily available resources, such as technology and free software. Furthermore, ensuring that your students have a positive educational experience can depend greatly on your awareness of potential language hurdles and how to modify your teaching style to overcome them.

[David Frame]

https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/thai-culture/thai-culture-core-concepts
Navigating Thai Culture: Core Concepts for Travellers and Expatriates

Thai culture is a mosaic of core concepts that form the essence of daily life in the “Land of Smiles.” These fundamental principles, including respect, freedom, loyalty, merit, pride, compassion, harmony, and “Sanuk” (the pursuit of joy in life), are pivotal for travellers and expatriates looking to understand and adapt to Thai society.

Respect and Harmony: “Face” is a central tenet, emphasising the preservation of personal and collective dignity and honor. Travellers and residents must prioritise politeness, patience, and avoid confrontation to ensure harmonious interactions and show respect for local traditions.

Hierarchy and Loyalty: Hierarchical social structures, influenced by factors like age and occupation, play a vital role in Thai interactions. Understanding and respecting this hierarchy is crucial. Additionally, loyalty to family and community prevails in Thai culture, often taking precedence over individual interests.

National Identity and Freedom: Thailand’s identity as “the Land of the Free” reflects the value placed on personal expression, speech, and religion. However, limitations exist concerning criticism of revered institutions like the monarchy and Buddhism. Foreigners must tread the fine line between freedom and cultural sensitivity, while also considering Thailand’s complex political landscape.

Sanuk – Embracing Life’s Pleasures: The Thai philosophy of “Sanuk” encourages finding joy in the ordinary. Travelers can embody this concept by embracing the Thai way of celebrating life’s simple pleasures and fostering positive connections with the ever-smiling locals.

In summary, respect, harmony, hierarchy, and loyalty are crucial for travelers and expatriates in Thailand. Balancing freedom with cultural reverence and embracing “Sanuk” can lead to a richer, more harmonious experience in the “Land of Smiles.”

[David Frame]

Hey Tia
Your personal disclosure in the summary reflects an appreciation for the cultural nuances of Thai family life. It’s evident that you have thoughtfully pulled the salient points with your article, finding resonance with the emphasis on family unity and mutual respect. Your intention to practice the concept of Namjai, selflessly honouring family without expecting anything in return, demonstrates a genuine commitment to incorporating these values into your own life. The acknowledgement of the upcoming challenges during your/our travel to Thailand and the anticipation of gaining a greater appreciation for family ties and a willingness to adapt Thai family values, shows a real open-mindedness. This personal insight adds a lot, highlighting the universal themes of family, respect, and cultural understanding. Thank you.

[Joshua Boyd]

I think it is very interesting, that you have analyzed the multiple learning styles that other cultures have to offer. I hope you are able to utilize and blend them into your own personal style of teaching while you are over there. I am sure the kids would appreciate someone who is using all resources at there disposal to not only teach English effectively but to also understand that there are multiple ways to learn given topics.

[Joshua Boyd]

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

The article I have selected is based on Thailand’s norms and etiquette. As someone who is traveling to this new country, I thought it would be important to learn how to show respect to the people there. As well as learn what actions and behaviors are frowned upon or offensive. In this culture, monks are highly revered, so much so that most buses in Thailand have their own designated seats for them. However, for any buses that do not have a seating area, it is a form of proper respect to give up one’s seat, to allow the monk to sit. Also, in Thailand showing forms of affection in public is deemed inappropriate this not only includes kissing but also hand-holding, hugging, and any other public displays. As someone who will be a tourist in that country, I think it is very important to discern what acts are deemed respectful and what actions or behaviors are rude. I believe this article has helped me learn to be more self-aware and knowledgeable about Thai culture, its beliefs, and values.

[Michael Buffmire]

Related Article: https://www.yahoo.com/news/two-american-tourists-fined-thailand-butt-selfie-temple-105800678.html?guccounter=2&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucGV3cmVzZWFyY2gub3JnLw&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAARNOiNlpGut2CKYVcGZFWuVKXBnGAUkaxzjjaaqXANf39fIv6O25VBZ07D89Qp7C_FmlMcWeiIVeu14zfniGxiC6NcftWfs7Hg57yjOXBw1btmrWSX6egTCPrwWos8_grxDiBIx-MlENUEkOUgnSj6UyGLTUIbmy8zen50Cjton
In this article, two American tourists that went by the instagram name “traveling_butts” mooned a camera in front of an historic Buddhist site “temple of the Dawn”. They were arrested at the Bangkok airport, presumably as they were leaving the country. They were being held by the immigration police for this act and another “Butt Selfie” at a different temple. They initially were fined $154 for the first act and may incur additional penalties and fines for the other act and for breaking Thailand’s Computer Crime Act.
Sadly, this type of disrespect and immaturity is not surprising by foreigners. When I was in the Navy, I knew quite a few sailors that were arrested in Mexico and Japan. I do not have know about people for other countries, but many Americans think that they are immune from the laws and norms in other lands because they are Americans. The Bill of Rights pertains to people IN AMERICA. Once we leave America, we are under the other countries laws, customs, and judicial system. It is important to realize that the US State Department has VERY limited authority if an American is arrested or detained in a foreign country. As expats living in Thailand, it is very important that we set a good example and show respect for Thailand’s culture and laws. If we observe friends and even countrymen breaking the values of Thailand, we should try to either inform them of their infraction if they are unaware or if they are aware to separate ourselves from the acts and even to report it to the proper authorities.

[Michael Buffmire]

This is in reference to the article by Earin Butler Response #25307
This was a very interesting response and article. Much of it sounds like some of the difficulties in teaching in the United States public school system. I taught for 5 years in apublic school (16 in a private school) and I had to deal with many of the same issues. Packed classes and many unmotivated students is definitely the norm in Jacksonville, Florida. I had many students that missed weeks and even months of school but at the end I had to give them “grade recover” to help them pass. Even teaching in the private school, cheating is rampant and it is near impossible to give a grade the students deserve.
I see a few issues with the article. The unqualified teacher was there for four days and quit. In only four days, she expected students to write original sentences. Writing sentences is not something any teacher should expect beginning students to be able to do in the first 4 days. The first days should be spent creating the atmosphere for learning that is expected in the classroom. After creating an atmosphere that students are interested, motivated, and feel confident to learn, start small and work your way up to more difficult material. After that, it is way more important that students can pronounce a few words correctly and maybe know the Alphabet. Writing original sentences is much too advanced. The students obviously did not know the answers or they probably would not be cheating on each other. There is no problem helping each other the first few days or even weeks. This is not cheating. Help them gain confidence and the basics then test for mastery. If this was a test or quiz, why did they have all the same version? However, the idea that students are ready for a test or quiz by the 4th day is ridiculous. Not only was she unqualified, she had no business being in the classroom.
Beginning English teachers in Thailand may be shocked and scared from this article. If they are completely unqualified, then it should be a shock. Once a person steps into the classroom, they MUST know what they are doing and where they are going in their lessons. Reading between the lines, there are definitely things that are positive about Thai schools. There was no mention about stopping fights and violence between students. The teacher was not physically or verbally threatened. A parent did not request a conference because their child did not have an A in the class. Students were not selling drugs or bringing weapons to class. Students were not being bullied by the richer or more popular students. Misbehaving and mean students were not being protected by the administration because they had given money to the school and/or had other siblings attending. There was not mention of a 2-tier discipline system based on the parents money and influence at the school. All of these are, in my opinion, much more serious problems that could have actually made it close to impossible to teach.

[Andrea Barrios]

Replying to Michael Alford’s article #25303. Hi Michael. A very interesting article that I think will help me or anyone who is travelling to Thailand. Overstaying your visa can be an issue if one is not paying attention to the dates and it is very important to remember when one has to leave. As a traveler to Thailand, or any country, it’s important to know what the rules and policies are to avoid any unnecessary fines or conflicts and be able to leave and come back to the country in the future. Thank you for picking an article that will help us remember to stay for the duration of our visa or make the necessary arrangements for someone that wishes to stay longer.

• This reply was modified 2 years, 6 months ago by Andrea Barrios.

[Lynsey Abrams]

This article makes me think about the different styles of teaching I’ve experienced over the years. We use a lot of technology at my current job in our kindergarten classroom, and I’ve taught ESL online using a fun and interactive platform which I think students can benefit more from over the less engaging, traditional styles of teaching. Although I’m not the most tech savvy, if technology is something I can involve in my lessons, I’m going to try! Thanks for sharing!

[Lynsey Abrams]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2683923/waiting-to-exhale

Health and safety are always of importance, whether you’re at home or moving abroad. Thailand’s air quality issue is something that has popped up numerous times during my research of Thailand as the destination for living and teaching abroad. This article addresses Thailand’s smog issue, its effects on health, the factors causing it, the potential solutions and why progress has not been made in tackling the problem.

The amount of particulate matter in Thailand can reach unhealthy levels which results in citizens and visitors spending less time outdoors, more frequent usage of face masks and the use of air purifiers indoors to avoid severe breathing issues. Sadly, these levels are expected to become more severe than the years prior. The cause of Thailand’s pollution problem mostly stems from a combination of vehicular emissions and the agricultural industry. Pollution peaks annually during the burn season which occurs around March and April, mostly caused by slash-and-burn farming practices and the incineration of agricultural waste. Because of these practices, national park wildfires are also a reoccurring problem.

According to the article, Thailand’s anticipated solution is the Clean Air Act. Unfortunately, the current draft of the Clean Air Act is ambiguous and at risk of exploitation by the individuals meant to uphold it. Another misgiving is the draft doesn’t properly define the toxic substances that need to be regulated, which make it a challenge for the private sector to regulate pollutants and to penalize those that aren’t enforcing them. There is currently government pressure to end the delay of enacting the act from both public and private sectors so that the nation can start undergoing improvement.

The article offered some solutions to the pollution problem, such as reducing the number of diesel-powered vehicles, the use of “low dust fuel”, tax reduction for tour companies that use electric vehicles, offering incentives for farmers who minimize their impact through organic farming or who limit ground burning, and providing the proper tools and manpower to prevent and mitigate wildfires. However, some of these solutions come at a high cost and may create newer problems that would have to be tackled.

I’m hoping that the government can get the ball rolling on the Clean Air Act so that Thailand can continue to thrive in the tourist industry and continue to bring in expats for many years to come. When not teaching, I will likely find myself traveling down south or to other countries that are experiencing less pollution just to catch a break during the months of March and April. Fortunately, this seems to be the only turn off I’ve ever had with Thailand as my destination of choice for teaching abroad, and all the good things I’ve heard by far outweigh this single bad one.

[Andrea Barrios]

3 Consequences of Covid-19 on Thai education. https://www.kenan-asia.org/blog/education/covid-19-thai-education/

This article examines the consequences of Covid-19 in Thai education and how it affected the students. It is no doubt that Covid-19 had an impact in the lives of everyone, but I am interested to learn what happened in Thailand as it is the country that I will be travelling to very soon. Before the pandemic, inequality was already an issue in Thailand but because Covid-19, inequality became even a greater issue. As most of the school learning had to move online, wealthy people had access to all the necessary resources, such as internet, laptops or computers, but poorer people who were not living in the big cities did not have access to any of these e-learning tools. Thailand was unprepared to deliver e- learning effectively, and especially in rural areas, teachers lacked the necessary technology to teach.
Also, the pandemic caused teachers to not feel supported as many of them had never taught online before, they felt lost as to what to do and how to teach the proper materials. There was no training or enough support given to teachers and many of them felt confused, alienated or powerless.
But because of all these unexpected events, the COVID19 pandemic also created an opportunity for change for the future. It is giving Thailand an opportunity to give the students and teachers the support they need for a 21st century education system and more access to technology and training for teachers. It may not be easy, but some schools know it may be possible as they have tried and seen a change in the past.
The topics discussed in the article relate to me as someone travelling to Thailand because I will be teaching, and I will be able to see the inequalities that exist. I may also notice the difference between the more educated kids with the rest of the kids and how their location may affect their education. Also, as I teacher I will know how many resources I have for teaching and will know how much teachers struggled to teach a class online when they had never done that before. I have lived through a pandemic here in my own country and know the effects of it in its education system, but I am interested to learn and see the changes that have happened in Thailand since the beginning and end of the pandemic.

[Author]

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