ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Keira Mack]

Hey Aniekha! I just wanted to say I really appreciate this article as a fellow food enjoyer. My favorite thing to do when traveling is to try new foods, and this article really shed a light on regional differences I didn’t even know about, and then even goes into their history. I was surprised at the Portuguese influence in certain desserts. When I go somewhere, I want to know what the specialties and what the overall cuisine is like so I can immerse myself the best. Having a guide like this is really helpful because I wouldn’t know where to go and what to try without significantly more research. I am also fairly new to Thai culture, I have admired it from afar but part of the excitement is I don’t truly know what to expect. I also travel by trying new foods, so overall I really like this article and will be using it when I visit.

[Keira Mack]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2992346/calls-mount-for-transgender-equality

According to this article, there was a conference held calling for the advancement of transgender rights in Thailand. Thailand is well know for its tolerance of its transgender population, but there are still many set backs despite it being a better place for this demographic that others. Transgender people are allotted free hormones by the government for example, which is a boon for transgenders people, but discrimination in other facets of life can still make existing difficult.
In the article, the author writes that transgender people are often excluded by their families and communities, especially in rural areas. Another issue is that employment is harder to come by, as customers often leave transgender workers with lower reviews, which then prompts hiring discrimination from companies that don’t want to bear that negativity with them. This leaves transgender people with fewer job opportunies, and leads them often into sex work, which has a multitude of drawbacks. It is unregulated and transgender sex workers can face danger from customers as well as health issues. One of the proposed solutions was the legalization and regulation of sex work to create a safer work place for transgender people, who may struggle finding employment outside this industry.
I am also a trans person, but I come from a different country. I face many struggles at home, but I have been lucky in life and have good support. I still worry about my community, but also I know the local perception of trans people can affect me as well. I am afforded the privileged of being foreign, so my identity can be written off. However the laws around being trans can still affect me. I still feel quite safe in Thailand, and despite the drawbacks listed in the article, it still seems one of the better places to exist while trans in the world. I think what the article showed to me is that despite its reputation as being a lgbt haven, there are still setbacks and I must know them so that I am prepared and know what to expect so I can navigate and integrate with the country better.

[Katy McKown]

Article: https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/2646085/making-education-keep-up-with-change

More than half of Thailand’s 15-year-olds are struggling to apply their math and science knowledge to real-world situations, way above the OECD average. Even though there have been several attempts at education reform over the past 20 years, the core curriculum from 2001 hasn’t really changed, and that’s holding students back. The real problem isn’t lazy students, bad teachers, or lack of money — it’s an outdated curriculum that doesn’t focus enough on real-world skills like critical thinking and creativity, which are more important than ever in today’s fast-moving world.

For someone like me moving to Thailand to teach English, this situation will definitely have an impact. I’ll probably find that a lot of students are used to memorizing facts rather than thinking deeply or applying what they learn in new ways. It means I’ll need to find creative ways to make my lessons more interactive and help students build confidence in using English for real communication, not just passing tests. Without big changes, Thailand’s education system risks falling even further behind, which affects not just students, but the country’s future too.

[Katy McKown]

Your post really highlights how heartbreaking the situation has become for animals in Thailand, especially during and after the pandemic. It’s so sad to think that many zoos were barely able to provide even basic care once tourist money dried up, and even worse that so many animals are now permanently affected by years of mistreatment. I thought the example of the captive ape used for entertainment was especially powerful — it shows just how far removed some animals are from their natural behaviors, making true rehabilitation almost impossible.

Reading this also made me think about how important it is for travelers and even new residents (like me, moving to Thailand soon) to be extra mindful about the places we choose to visit or support. A lot of tourist activities that seem “fun” on the surface might actually be fueling a cycle of abuse behind the scenes. Articles like this are so important because they help educate people who might not otherwise realize the full impact of the entertainment and pet trades. Hopefully, with more awareness and public pressure, we’ll start to see stronger animal protection laws and real improvements in welfare standards.

[Sofia Maldonado]

Article: https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/tourism/40047528

​The article from The Nation discusses the significant impact of HBO’s “The White Lotus” Season 3, which is set in Thailand, on the country’s tourism industry. The show’s picturesque portrayal of locations like the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, and various sites in Phang Nga and Bangkok has sparked a phenomenon dubbed “The White Lotus effect.” This effect has led to a substantial increase in interest and bookings from international travelers, with notable surges from Hong Kong, Singapore, the United States, and Australia. Social media mentions of Thailand have also risen dramatically, reflecting a 60% increase around the show’s premiere, and an impressive 99% of these mentions carry a positive sentiment. Additionally, the inclusion of Thai K-pop star Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban in the cast has further amplified global attention towards Thailand.​
As someone residing in Thailand, this surge in tourism presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the increased interest can boost the local economy, especially in the hospitality and service sectors. On the other hand, there’s a growing concern about overtourism and its potential negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Popular destinations may face issues like overcrowding, strain on resources, and cultural commodification. To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as encouraging visits to lesser-known locales and implementing measures to protect ecologically sensitive areas. Being aware of these dynamics allows residents and travelers alike to make informed decisions that support the long-term well-being of Thailand’s diverse regions.

[Jessy Carranza]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/2646085/making-education-keep-up-with-change

Reading the article “Making Education Keep Up With Change” made me think about how important it is for schools in Thailand to prepare students for the real world. As someone visiting Thailand, I can see how fast things are changing with technology and the economy, but the education system seems a bit behind. It surprised me that Thai students spend a lot of time in class but still struggle to apply what they learn in real life. If the curriculum doesn’t update to focus more on problem-solving and creativity, it could be harder for young people in Thailand to succeed in today’s global world.

This topic connects to me because I care about how people grow and learn, especially in a place I’m spending time in. When education doesn’t keep up, it affects not only students but also the future workforce, innovation, and even how visitors like me experience the country. I think if Thailand improves its education system to be more modern and practical, it could open up more opportunities for everyone—locals and foreigners alike. It would also help young Thais feel more confident and ready to handle global challenges.

[Jessy Carranza]

Response to Kassandra Bailey: #22408

I really appreciate your thoughtful reflection on the article and how it connects to your upcoming move to Thailand. It’s wonderful to see how the article has inspired you, especially as a woman preparing to embark on a teaching career there. The progress of Thai women in business is certainly impressive, and it’s motivating to hear that you feel encouraged by their success. The fact that women are breaking barriers and thriving in various industries is indeed a powerful reminder that opportunities for leadership and success exist, regardless of gender.
I find your perspective incredibly hopeful and motivating. It’s clear that you are entering your teaching role with a deep sense of purpose, understanding that the impact you have can extend beyond the classroom and into the broader social context. Knowing that women can achieve great success in Thailand, and that education plays such a critical role in shaping the future, must be incredibly empowering for you. Your dedication to teaching not only for academic success but also for fostering gender equality is inspiring, and I’m sure it will have a lasting impact on the students you teach.

[Esihle Mangqishi]

https://world.thaipbs.or.th/detail/new-school-year-same-old-story-thailands-education-system-stuck-in-the-past/231
According to the article, nothing much has changed in the education system. Despite all the talk about reforms, the system is still struggling. Educator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompong Jitradub pointed out that, while the government has worked on improving the physical aspects of schools—like buildings and teacher salaries—these changes haven’t addressed the real problems. In fact, the latest PISA results show that Thai students are performing worse than ever.

The government hasn’t made any significant progress, especially when it comes to fixing the gap between rural and urban schools. While Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob has responded quickly to issues like school safety and teacher pay, there hasn’t been much done for real educational development. The National Education Act, which has been around since 1999, hasn’t been updated to meet the needs of today’s digital world, and the curriculum hasn’t been changed in years. Though a new education bill is in the works, the process is moving slowly, and urgent changes are still lacking.

[Hanifa Bibi]

Hafner, J.A., Keyes, C.F., Keyes, E.J. (2025, May 1). Thailand. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Thailand
Article Summary: “Thailand” from Encyclopedia Britannica

The Encyclopedia Britannica article “Thailand” by Hafner, Keyes, and Keyes (2025) provides a comprehensive overview of the Southeast Asian nation, covering its geography, history, culture, economy, and political system. The article describes Thailand as a country that has successfully maintained its independence throughout its history, despite pressures from colonial powers. It highlights Thailand’s constitutional monarchy system, with the king serving as head of state and the prime minister leading the government. The authors emphasise Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which shapes many aspects of daily life and national identity. They note that approximately 95% of Thais practice Buddhism, making it central to the country’s social structure and value system.

The article further explores Thailand’s economic development, detailing its transformation from a primarily agricultural economy to one with strong manufacturing, tourism, and service sectors. Despite this economic diversification, agriculture remains significant, with rice cultivation being economically and culturally important. The authors also discuss Thailand’s geographic diversity, from the mountainous northern regions to the central plains and southern coastal areas, each with distinct climates, ecosystems, and cultural variations. They mention ongoing challenges facing the country, including political instability, economic inequality, environmental concerns, and tensions between traditional values and the influences of modernisation.
As someone planning to travel to or live in Thailand, the information from this Encyclopedia Britannica article provides essential context that would significantly shape my experience. Understanding the centrality of Buddhism to Thai culture would influence how I approach visits to the numerous temples (wats) throughout the country, reminding me to dress modestly, remove shoes when entering sacred spaces, and show proper respect to monks and religious symbols. The article’s emphasis on the reverence Thais hold for their monarchy would also guide my behaviour, making me aware of the strict lèse-majesté laws and the importance of showing appropriate respect when encountering royal imagery or discussions about the royal family.

The geographic and cultural diversity described in the article would inform my travel planning, helping me recognise that experiences in Bangkok would differ substantially from those in Chiang Mai’s northern hills or the southern coastal regions. As a traveller or resident, knowledge of Thailand’s economic contrasts would prepare me to encounter ultramodern shopping malls and traditional markets, luxury condominiums alongside conventional wooden houses. Moreover, understanding Thailand’s historical independence and pride in its cultural heritage would help me appreciate why Thais might be sensitive to foreigners who fail to respect local customs or approach the culture with a colonial mindset. By being aware of these aspects of Thai society, I could engage more thoughtfully with local communities, adapting my expectations and behaviours to align with cultural norms while navigating the blend of tradition and modernity that characterises contemporary Thailand.

[Hanifa Bibi]

Towards A Learning Society in Thailand

Thailand’s comprehensive education system encompasses five distinct tiers: Early Learning, Basic, Vocational/Technical, Higher, and Lifelong Education. This inclusive framework shares notable parallels with South Africa’s educational approach. Managing Thailand’s extensive educational landscape—comprising over 37,000 institutions serving nearly 20 million students—requires sophisticated administrative and organisational structures to ensure effective operation. The government has identified seven strategic focus areas within its education policy, demonstrating its dedication to transforming Thailand into a true learning society. It was a great read and a great way to be introduced to the Thai system, thank you for providing the article

[Alexis Taniguchi]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3018050/trump-plans-100-levy-on-foreign-films-deepening-trade-war
Trump plans 100% levy on foreign films, deepening trade war (May 2025)

Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on foreign films to restrict media he accused of being propaganda. Trump has recently declared many such hyperbolic plans regarding tariffs and his desire to direct American production and consumption inwards. It has created tension across the globe as his plans would affect nearly every industry. However, it is unclear how a tariff would be collected for this good, nor how it would change film value since many American movies are filmed and produced in foreign countries. This article noted uncertainty about whether this tariff would be applied to past films or future films because big-name movies soon to be released were filmed in countries throughout Europe and in Thailand.
This proposed tariff on films brings to question many interesting causes that may take place what with how difficult it may become to bring foreign films to the American market. If companies weren’t willing to take on the cost of filming in Thailand would that mean less tourism? American audiences wouldn’t see the beaches they are drawn to that are so often used in movies, and film crews wouldn’t spend their time exploring Thailand during off-work hours. Or could this affect Thailand very little since American media is already leaning into cost-effective streaming instead of films? Either way, it sends a bad message and is likely to leave many with a bad taste in their mouths.

[Alexis Taniguchi]

Hello Sofia! Your post caught my eye because I also wrote about how the media affects tourism.
Since I decided to come to Thailand to teach English a few months ago I have also had concerns about over-tourism, the spread of western values/culture and the negative effects it has on locals and their ability to live comfortably and with their cultural identity intact. As mentioned earlier in this course, tourism is a double-edged sword that can both boost Thailand’s economy by bringing in money from the outside, but it can also damage the environment and the people living here. That picture of that grand hotel standing just a kilometer away from an area where 200,000 residents live in extreme poverty was shocking to see. I think that set of pictures alone gives a rough idea as to how prioritizing tourism over local communities can harm the country.
You suggested that it would be beneficial to promote sustainable tourism practices such as marketing lesser-known locations as equals to largely known ones. I think social media, at least as far as I’ve seen, does that. Nobody wants to go to an overcrowded area when they could have as good of a time somewhere else. But I’ve also seen locals (not from Thailand but other tourist-heavy countries) complain about that same phenomenon and how it leaves nothing for locals to enjoy since everywhere is then tainted. I like your idea but I still wonder how people can manage to continue traveling while maintaining the integrity of the countries they visit.

[Eleanor Wingfield]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/2948027/can-ai-close-the-learning-gap-
Article entitled: Can AI close the learning gap?
This article explores how AI could help address educational challenges, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region where many children are still out of school or not meeting basic learning standards. In Thailand, students are already imagining schools that embrace AI, coding, and hands-on learning. Their vision reflects the growing need for education systems to adapt to a digital world. It explains that AI has the potential to personalize learning, improve teaching efficiency, and expand access to quality education, but that these benefits come with challenges—many students, especially in rural areas, lack access to computers, reliable internet, or digital skills, which could widen existing gaps rather than close them.
Teachers are essential to this digital transition but often face difficulties in keeping up with technology. Many students rely on tools like ChatGPT without fully understanding the content, and both students and teachers may lack the skills needed to use these tools effectively. Programs like Unicef’s One Teacher Thailand and Unesco’s AI Competency Framework aim to support teachers in developing digital competencies. Meanwhile, national efforts such as Thailand’s “Coding for All” initiative and upcoming events like the Unesco Global Forum on the Ethics of AI emphasize the importance of ethical and inclusive AI use. The article concludes that while AI offers significant promise, it must be implemented thoughtfully to ensure equity and support for all learners.

[Ivan Kosa]

Article: https://www.nationthailand.com/life/food/40049296

Title: Would you dare? Exploring Thailand’s deep-fried insect delicacies

This article highlights Thailand’s unique insect-eating culture and starts with answering the question whether Thais really eat insects or not. Ma-laeng tod, as Thais call it, is just as a big part of Thai diet as eating regular Thai cuisine. Insect dishes are made the same way as any other food in Thailand – deep-fried with lots of spice added to it. Despite their unusual look, insects are really nutritious, and some tourists who dared trying them said they were delicious. Ultimately the article is about convincing the reader to try dishes made out of insects and it is up them if they want to.
Back in the day I used to find insect-eating unusual and gross. However, after learning how delicious they are and how much it benefits one’s health, I would dare eat ma-laeng tod in Thailand. With the rise of globalization, it’s becoming popular amongst people who wouldn’t normally have insects in their cultural diet. It is true that insects look gross, but if we look at the fact how more nutritious they are than beef or chicken, it is a much healthier option. Moreover, insects can be found in abundance, so eating them could also contribute to decrease world hunger. In a few years, if not decades, I could imagine stores and restaurants selling food made out of insects all over the world.

[Ivan Kosa]

Hey Aniekha!
As a person who also loves exploring new foods, I find this article quite interesting. I was always fascinated by how versatile Thai cuisine can be. The amount of influence from other countries’ food culture really shows in every region of Thailand. With hundreds, if not thousands, of unique recipes, ways and methods of cooking dishes, no wonder why some people from all around the world visits Thailand every year just to experience its culinary culture. I’m really looking forward to discover new tastes and experience this unique food culture, possibly learning some of the recipes from the locals.

[Author]

Posts