ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Amber Grinsted]

Reply to Kholofelo:

This is a great and concise summary of the article’s discussion of the Thai Eduction System. I found it really interesting to read and compare it to the education system in England (my home country). It has also heightened my excitement for becoming an English teacher in Thailand and helped prepare me more for what to expect.

[David Norris]

Reply to Faith Lauinger’s September 20th Article Analysis:

When my two children were young and just starting school, I quickly realized that my expectation of teachers was too high. Many, through no fault of their own, were ill equipped to handle all that was thrown at them as young teachers. I learned that many teachers do not have adequate resources and training to deal with every situation that comes their way.

Becoming a teacher myself soon, I am intimidated due to my lack of experience in working with students of differing abilities or with special needs. I am happy to see peers, such as yourself, that I can count on when needed!

[Joshua Williams]

article https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/thailands-rising-costs-a-shift-in-budget-friendly-reputation/

this article summarises and explains how the value of Baht increasing is having a direct effect on not just tourism but also immigration making budgeting in this economic environment more challenging as the country becomes richer the prices rise. In some cases like Phuket have seen increases of 10% with more places in south Asia looking more appealing to the average tourist where there currency is of higher value when exchanged.

This articles contents will effect me on a monetary basis as well as being a fair warning on planning budgets and expecting to lose money if exchanged back making traval to and from Thailand more difficult.

[Joshua Williams]

I agree with this article with “There is simply no need to delay upgrading our young people’s educational experiences and outcomes when we can start today.” upgrading the educational system doesn’t need to be a monetary goal to satisfy budgets however upgrading what students can have available to them would benefit them on a massive scale with pupils being the next generation of teachers the more funding pumped into education the higher level they can achieve.

[Ronnie Tash]

All Eyes on Thai Baht
The article discusses concerns among Thai manufacturers regarding the appreciation of the baht, particularly following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates. The chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) highlighted that this currency strengthening could render Thai exports more expensive compared to international competitors, jeopardizing their market share. A survey indicated that over 40% of entrepreneurs see the rising baht as a significant threat to their businesses. Despite these challenges, the FTI projects modest export growth, primarily driven by the electronics sector. Additionally, there are fears of a global economic slowdown, which could further exacerbate the situation for Thai manufacturers, particularly amid ongoing domestic issues like severe flooding.

For someone living/travelling in Thailand, this economic climate could have several implications. The strong baht means that foreign tourists, like myself, may find their spending power diminished, potentially affecting the overall tourism revenue that the country heavily relies on. With prices rising for goods and services, travellers might feel the pinch even as they enjoy the beautiful destinations Thailand has to offer. However, it’s also possible that this situation could lead to better-quality products and services as local businesses adapt to maintain competitiveness. As a traveller, who is only here for a month, understanding these economic dynamics could enhance my experience, allowing me to appreciate not just the cultural richness of Thailand, but also its economic landscape and how it affects daily life.

URL:https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2870433/all-eyes-on-thai-baht

[Fiona Wilkinson]

The news article posted by the world bank organization titled “Thai Economy to Recover in 2024 Driven by Tourism, Exports Recovery” focused on the predictions for Thailand’s economy to grow in 2024, primarily driven by tourism and exports. The World Bank organization focuses on the impact of carbon pricing in achieving the country’s ambitious climate goals and improving public health. The article starts by stating that Thailand’s predicted economy growth is 3.2% by 2024 after hindrance to growth in 2023. This reduction can be attributed to the declining goods exports and fiscal consolidation.
The report emphasis the importance of carbon pricing, such as taxes or emissions trading, to meet Thailand’s ambitious climate goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2065 and a 30% reduction by 2030. The problem of air pollution is touched upon as it poses significant economic and public health challenges, costing about 6% of GDP due to health issues due to micro-levels of pollution. The article suggests that by implementing carbon pricing, the stabilisation of emissions and improvement of urban air quality are possible. In turn, this change will generate revenue for climate invitiavies and public healthcare funding. The article concludes by arguing that while Thailand has initiated carbon pricing policies, more ambitiuos measures to reach its climate target effectively are required.
The article provides key insights for both travelers and residents in Thailand, particularly regarding economic growth and air quality. With the economy projected to grow 3.2% in 2024, travellers can expect improved services and infrastructure, enhancing the overall experience. The rebound in tourism also means more attractions and activities will be available, benefiting locas employed in the sector. However, the mention of a micro-level of pollution underscores significant health concerns, as these fine particules cn impact respiratory and cardiovascular health. Travellers should be aware of air quality levels, especially during peak pollution seasons, and take necessary precautions. Additionally, the push for carbon pricing and sustainability intiatiatives reflects a growing awareness of environmental issues, appealing to eco-conscious visitors and residents. Overall, understanding these factors can help individuals navigate their experiences in Thailand more effectively.

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/12/14/thai-economy-to-recover-in-2024-driven-by-tourism-exports-recovery

• This reply was modified 1 year, 7 months ago by Fiona Wilkinson.

[Fiona Wilkinson]

Hey Ronnie,

I found your analysis of the article really insightful! It’s interesting to see how the appreciation of the baht could impact both manufacturers and travelers. I hadn’t considered how much the currency’s strength could affect tourism revenue and pricing for visitors like us. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword, right? While a stronger baht may mean higher costs for us, it could also lead to better-quality products and services, which could enhance our overall experience.

I think it’s important for us as travellers, to understand these economic factors because they shape not just our costs but also the local businesses we interact with. It makes me more appreciative of the challnges that local entrepreneurs face. Have you thought about how we may adjust our spending or experiences to navigate this situation better? Maybe exploring more local markets or seeking out lesser-known attractions could be a way to enjoy Thailand without feeling the financial pinch as much. Would love to hear your thoughts!

[Ronnie Tash]

Reply to Kate Dudman:
In Kate’s analysis she really connected her experience with the article as well as her understanding to children’s education with many to limited resources. Reading Kate’s decision to imply learning styles knowing that her students do not have the privilege to many resources, helps show how she is willing to start her teaching in a positive and approachable way. Although there is a language barrier, Kate is encouraged towards her path in teaching by wanting to create a collaborative classroom environment. I believe she will truly impact her students and create said environment that is engaging to her students regardless of special technologies or advances. A proactive mindset will undoubtedly inspire your students to thrive!

[Autumn Frank]

The article “Social media power: How Pygmy hippo Moo Deng became a global sensation” discusses the baby pygmy hippo known as “Moo Deng”, and the impact she has had on attendance to the khao kheow open zoo and overall interest in tourism in Thailand. Zookeeper Atthapon recorded and uploaded clips of the small hippo “when she was being adorable” doing things such as running, playing, eating and sleeping. Despite the seemingly normal nature of these clips, they blew up. Atthapon mentions the fact that the khao kheow open zoo now sees almost 4-5 thousand people come by a day vs the previous only a few hundred. This is a great example of how Thailand contributes to pop culture worldwide, and the power of social media internationally.
I have such a love for animals and will most likely be spending a lot of time at zoos or animal sanctuaries. I remember seeing a clip of Moo Deng trying to get out of the pond in her enclosure, and continuously slipping over and over until the clip ended. This (among many other things) made me feel like my decision to come to Thailand is a good one. I’d never seen anything like Moo Deng before, I didn’t even know Pygmy hippos existed! There is such a great and substantial world out there to discover, that it almost feels like a waste to sit at home and not explore it.

Article: https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/life/entertainment/40041811

[Autumn Frank]

Hey charlotte! Your article was very well written, It’s wonderful that there are programs like ‘ the digital bus project’ to not only help these children living in more rural areas get to school, but to provide them with learning materials and other helpful additions to the community, like health centers . It’s cool to know that the tech company Huawei’s collaboration with Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Projects created this program. This is a good example of how Thailand takes care of its own people in such a hands on way. An inequality was noticed and a program was created to combat it. And in turn more of Thailand citizens living in rural areas can get an education bettering their lives.

[Haru Asberry]

A recent article I read has described the recent passing of a bill that will recognize and legalize same sex marriage in Thailand. This will be starting in January of 2025. Thailand will be the first country in South East Asia to do such an amazing thing. As someone who is a part of the LGBTQIIA+ community someone I heavily consider when traveling is whether I will be safe in a country. The major factors I always consider when going to a place is if I am safe as a black person, if I am safe as a feminine presenting person and if I am safe as an LGBTQ person. Obviously it’s not as pressing as my existence as a black person because at least I can hide my sexual orientation and gender identity. However I have never and never wished to live in the shadows of who I am. I have always been someone to openly declare who I am to people and I don’t wish to hide such an important piece of myself. Especially as it may prompt me to develop feelings of shame surrounding something that shouldn’t have those feelings attached to it. Knowing that I get to be in Thailand, a country I have always considered to be beautiful and welcoming, and I will get to not only be openly myself but it is now to be written into law that people like me don’t have to worry about marriage discrimination. I am so happy for the LGBT+ community in Thailand and hope that this will aid in a new era of acceptance and love. I am so happy to be in Thailand and feel happier and safer knowing this bill has been written into law.

[Haru Asberry]

Your article in many ways addresses a topic similar to mine. I too picked one centered around lgbtqiia+ acceptance and progression. I am looking forward to the positive ways in which this may reflect in Thailand and Thai culture.

[Tasfia Kabir]

Colourism in Thailand
The societal perception of dark skin tones motivates a generational response to colourism,
as presented in the article “On Colour and Colourism In Thailand” written by Nick Barose. The
written piece highlights the complex prejudice towards deep skin tones in contrast to the
beautiful and vivid colours that are celebrated within Thai culture. In Thailand, the perpetual
concept of skin whitening creams, as well as measuring success based on the fairness of your
skin, are subtle ways colourism presents itself within people of the same race. The writer of the
article, Nick Barose, also a successful makeup artist, uses these points to spotlight his journey to
embracing his dark skin.
Asian societies typically didn’t advertise dark skinned models, with intentions of
maintaining fair skinned beauty standards, but in recent years we are starting to see a change all
throughout Asia. However, to this day in Thai culture, dark skin models are still considered
exotic and inadequate for the beauty industry. Barose celebrates his Thai culture, and integrates
colours within his makeup looks inspired by the flowers, peacocks and parrots that surrounded
his environment growing up. Breaking boundaries in the makeup world, having to rely on mixing
custom darker makeup shades and using bold bright colours, Barose uses his 25 years of
experience as a makeup artist to advocate for the beauty of dark skin.
As a Canadian traveling to Thailand with a South Asian background, I appreciate this
article and how it celebrates the colours of Thai culture to respond to the prejudice that colourism
presents itself in. Like Barose, I hope in everything that I do, my success is perceived by my
abilities and intelligence rather than the fairness of my skin. The beauty portrayed by using vivid
blues, greens, yellows, and reds reminds me a lot of my Bengali culture and how we use these
colours to accentuate our skin tones and recognize the colours we grew up surrounded by. The
connections and similarities between these cultures further excites my stay here in Thailand, and
I hope I’m able to experience the beauty of Thailand with no prejudice.
https://www.allure.com/story/color-and-colorism-in-thailand

[Breanne Nevers]

Hello,
I read an article by Expatica titled “The Education System in Thailand.” Since I will be working at a school, I decided to read an article about the Thai educational system to understand it better. I learned a lot about Thai school administration and support from this essay. The fact that government schools in metropolitan regions maintain excellent reputations and good standards while those in rural areas lack financing and resources for education stuck out to me. It made me worry about the disparities in the education system, as it seems not everyone receives an equal opportunity for a successful education. We also are faced with this in America.

I discovered that there are three different types of primary schools that families can enroll their children into; bilingual, international, and main language. Families choose the best place for their kids to go to school and whether or not they can afford to enroll them in a particular institution. Students may also need to meet certain requirements and maintain their current grade point average to continue taking English classes. The last thing that caught my attention is that some preschools allow children to begin studying English. Preschool is not a requirement, however, if some kids learn some English in preschool, I feel like, when they enter primary school, they will be ahead of the other students. Overall, I’m glad I read this article because it helped me understand the Thai educational system, which I will be involved in when I get to Thailand.

• This reply was modified 1 year, 7 months ago by Breanne Nevers.

[Breanne Nevers]

Reply to Autumn F
Thank you for sharing your post. I think it is crazy how much social media has an impact on people as well as tourism. I feel like many people see things on the internet and they want to go experience it, such as Moo Deng. Even though Thailand can survive without tourism, I think it is a great thing we have social media because when people see something online, such as videos from Thailand, it drives them to want to visit that specific place. Tourism helps bring in financial means, especially for Thailand. In the case of the zoo, bringing in all those visitors helps raise money for the zoo.
I am in the same boat with not wanting to waste my life away and not exploring it. I think there is a whole world out there to explore and to see, and thankfully to videos and social media, it is easier to make those dreams realities.

[Author]

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