ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Kelley Flanagan]

Hey Nicholas, this stood out to me. I’m from Ireland and can understand your views completely. Ireland is a Catholic Country and for centuries Catholicism was deeply intertwined with Irish identity. The Catholic Church held immense influence over politics, education, and social life and this came at a cost. There were widespread abuse in institutions such as industrial schools, Magdalene Laundries, orphanages etc. The last Laundry home to be shut down was only in 1997.
The people of Ireland were discouraged from questioning the church’s authority. Those who did speak out were shamed and ostracized from society. As a result, many generations grew up in a culture of silence and obedience, I have seen and experienced this first hand with my Catholic mother.
Therefore, I can relate to how you are suspect of Catholic Priests and I also would be apprehensive of dealings with other members of religious orders.

[Julia Holmes]

Article Source
“MUIC Wins 6 Awards in International Competition for Sustainable Business” — MUIC News, Mahidol University International College (July 9, 2024)
https://muic.mahidol.ac.th/eng/muic-wins-6-awards-in-international-competition-for-sustainable-business/
The article talks about MUIC business students who recently entered the Global Poster Competition on Sustainable International Business. Out of 69 posters from 15 different universities worldwide, every single one of MUIC’s eight posters made it to the shortlist, which is impressive on its own. Even better, they ended up winning six awards, including a big one called the Global “Decade of Action” Sustainable Development Award. They also picked up prizes in areas like strategy, technology, analytics, partnerships, and visualization. It shows how MUIC students can compete and shine at an international level.

Reading this reminded me of my own time at MUIC and how the college pushes students to think globally, not just academically. When I was there, I really felt the mix of cultures and ideas, and I could see how students were encouraged to work on projects that connected to real-world issues. Seeing MUIC students win awards like this makes me proud because it proves that the education there is preparing people to stand out internationally. For someone like me who studied there as an international student, it also made living in Thailand easier as I felt part of a forward-looking community that valued new ideas and teamwork. This is a big part of what makes MUIC such a positive influence, both on students like me and on Thailand’s reputation in global education.

[Julia Holmes]

Replying to Kelly Flanagan Post:
Hi Kelly! I really liked your choice of this article because it digged into the real challenges and opportunities of integrating into Thai society, which is so relevant for anyone preparing to move there. I thought it was smart that you highlighted both the quantitative data and the Hofstede cultural dimensions, since that shows you connected theory with lived experience. The comparison between Ireland and Thailand was especially clear and helped illustrate the differences in power distance, individualism, and communication styles. I also liked that you connected the findings to your own situation as an Irish person moving to Thailand. It made the analysis feel very personal and practical. The section about professional versus private life was insightful, especially since you noted how it could apply to your own work as an English teacher. Loved this.

• This reply was modified 8 months, 1 week ago by Julia Holmes.

[Ramsay Cochrane]

https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/thai-culture/thai-culture-religion

Thai Religion
This article describes and explores Thailand’s main religion Buddhism, and its impact on the nation. The article firstly details the percentage of Thai nationals who are Buddhist, which is a staggering 92% but for many it is more comely seen as “a way of life” rather than a religion. The article then goes on to explain that Thailand has freedom in its religious choice and expression which is even protected by law. The majority of the remainder of the population are made up of Muslims and Christians.
The article then goes on to explore how Buddhism is practiced in Thailand. The most prominent of which is Theravada Buddhism which is governed by the “triple gem” the teacher (Buddha) the teaching (dhamma) and the monastic community (the Sangha). It describes how each of these translate into practice and which principles they are based on. It looks at the fact there is no god, we explore the Four Noble Truths of the teaching (the Sangha) and how all of this shapes the morality of the Thai people. But it also goes on to explore how it has a greater reach and shapes the national identity, from Buddha appearing in government buildings to schools and homes. It even has a reach with the youth of the Thai people who are using social media as an outlet to express their feelings towards Buddha and Buddhism.

Overall it is a simplish exploitation of Buddhism in Thailand and how it impacts and affects its people as well as the customs it brings. But I still found it incredibly interesting as a soon to be an expat I can’t help but feel akin to the morality of the Thai people and the religious beliefs. So now I have been sent on a deep dive into all things Buddhist, but really I just can not wait to actually be there and be able to soak it up for real!

[DavRicia Hughes]

Article Analysis – Songkran Festival

The Guardian article “‘You’re going to get wet’: revellers soak up Thailand’s first post-pandemic Songkran water festival” (Ratcliffe, 2023) explores the revival of Songkran, Thailand’s New Year festival, after a three-year pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article describes how both locals and tourists participated in the celebration, engaging in water fights that are symbolic of cleansing and renewal, while also emphasizing the holiday’s spiritual roots in family reunions and Buddhist rituals. This dual emphasis highlights the adaptability of Thai culture, blending vibrant public festivities with traditional religious observances. By presenting Songkran as both playful and deeply meaningful, the article underscores its role as a cultural cornerstone that reinforces social unity and resilience.

As someone preparing to travel to Thailand for an extended period, this article resonates with me on multiple levels. The description of Songkran illustrates the importance of participating in cultural traditions not only as a form of celebration but also as a way of building connections within the community. Understanding that the festival goes beyond water play and carries spiritual significance encourages me to approach it with respect and cultural sensitivity. At the same time, the lively and inclusive nature of the holiday provides an opportunity to integrate into Thai society more naturally, forming bonds with locals and embracing the collective spirit of renewal. This balance of joy and tradition reminds me that successful cultural adaptation requires both openness and mindfulness.

Reference
Ratcliffe, R. (2023, April 13). ‘You’re going to get wet’: revellers soak up Thailand’s first post-pandemic Songkran water festival. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/apr/13/youre-going-to-get-wet-revellers-soak-up-thailands-first-post-pandemic-songkran-water-festival

[DavRicia Hughes]

I really appreciated your analysis of Thai Buddhism and how you highlighted its role not only as a religion but as a “way of life” shaping national identity. I found it particularly insightful that you mentioned the connection between Buddhism and Thailand’s youth, especially through social media as a modern outlet of expression. This makes me reflect on how cultural traditions evolve while staying rooted in historical practices. As someone preparing to live in Thailand soon, I think your point about the Four Noble Truths shaping morality is especially relevant—it helps me anticipate how values of mindfulness and compassion may influence everyday interactions. Your post encouraged me to think about how religion in Thailand is not just practiced privately, but is visible in schools, government, and even community celebrations, which will likely impact how I experience daily life there.

[Matilda Starr]

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/ethical-elephant-sanctuary-thailand
Lonely Planet’s article “The future of ethical elephant tourism in Thailand” explores how sanctuaries are transforming traditional elephant tourism into practices centred on animal welfare. The Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is highlighted for providing a safe environment for elephants, whilst also supporting the mahouts (traditional Thai elephant carers) and their families. Rather than using elephants for rides or performances, the camp introduces training through positive reinforcement, allowing elephants to participate in medical care willingly with the reward of treats. This humane approach not only ensures the wellbeing of the animals but also builds a sustainable model that has spread to hundreds of mahouts in Thailand and neighbouring countries.
As someone moving to Thailand, I feel a strong personal connection to this topic because I am passionate about animal welfare. Reading about sanctuaries that prioritise kindness and respect for elephants makes me hopeful about opportunities to support these causes during my time there. Visiting or volunteering at an ethical sanctuary would allow me to contribute to raising awareness and help promote tourism that protects, rather than exploits, animals. This article also reminds me to make thoughtful choices about where I spend my time and money in Thailand, ensuring I support organisations that align with values of compassion and sustainability. Living in Thailand will give me the chance not just to experience its culture, but also to engage actively in protecting its wildlife and standing behind ethical initiatives that make a real difference.

[Caileigh White]

Article 2 Analysis
https://so19.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/WJHS/article/view/1442
Elephants in Thailand: A Cultural Icon and National Treasure by Ei Nandar Phyoe discusses the history, symbolism, and impact elephants have on Thailand. For centuries, elephants were used as workers because of their immense power and strength. The White Elephant, in particular, was regarded as a royal symbol, with kings keeping them as signs of authority and stability, especially during wars. Elephants were essential for building, crossing difficult terrain, and carrying soldiers in battle. Over time, they also came to represent purity, becoming incorporated into Buddhist traditions across the country. In more recent years, elephants have been heavily used in tourism, often facing poor living conditions, overwork, and harsh training. Today, however, there are increasing efforts to provide elephants with ethical sanctuaries to honor their historical importance and ensure their welfare.
Elephants have been my favorite animal since I was young—I even had a stuffed elephant named “Miss Muffin.” It has always been my dream to see elephants in the wild, but growing up in Canada, that has not been possible. As I prepare for my move to Thailand, this article feels especially meaningful. Seeing elephants reflected in temples, festivals, and national symbols fascinates me and makes me eager to experience Thai culture more deeply. At the same time, it is disheartening to learn about the harm caused by tourism and ivory hunting. That is why I would choose to visit ethical sanctuaries that focus on observation-based tourism. Learning about the struggles between conservation and human development also gives me greater sensitivity to the balance Thailand faces—
reminding me that tourism not only shapes cultural heritage but also directly affects wildlife sustainability.

[Caileigh White]

Hello Justin,
I enjoyed reading your summary on the effect of climate change on Thailand. Living in Nova Scotia, Canada, this summer, we have had hardly any rain, resulting in a very dry season. This has caused dry wells, prevented us from going into the woods, and made it impossible to have fires. Forest fires have also emerged. Reading about Thailand’s temperature being at an all-time high, and the need for a CSS (Carbon Capture and Storage) will hopefully improve the Earth, Thailand and the environment surrounding us. While I am there, I want to ensure I am doing my part to learn about how the rising temperature affects ecosystems and people’s everyday lives. Your background in biology allows you to have a unique perspective, providing you with a more advanced knowledge of the land and its environmental impact. I agree that preparation and awareness are necessary.
Thank you,
Caileigh White

[Eleah KentonHowells]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2945632/hundreds-wed-as-thai-same-sex-marriage-law-takes-effect

I reviewed the article “Hundreds wed as Thai same-sex marriage law takes effect” from The Bangkok Post. It highlights that on January 23, 2025, Thailand officially became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, joining Taiwan and Nepal as the only Asian jurisdictions to do so.

On that historic day, around 1,800 same-sex couples across the country registered their unions, with many participating in a mass celebration at shopping malls and local district offices. The Marriage Equality Act amended Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gendered terms like “husband” and “wife” with gender-neutral language such as “marriage partners” or “individuals,” granting LGBTQ+ couples equal legal, financial, medical, and inheritance rights. The government also prepared for implementation by conducting staff workshops and updating registration procedures to ensure sensitivity and inclusivity in handling these marriages. Though activists see this as a monumental achievement, they emphasize that further legal reforms such as anti-discrimination legislation, are still needed to guarantee comprehensive protection and equality.

This breakthrough in Thai society resonates deeply with me as someone preparing to live in Thailand. It signals an evolving cultural landscape that values inclusivity and equality. As a teacher, I recognize the importance of fostering a learning environment that respects and celebrates diverse identities. Witnessing such progressive change reinforces my belief in the power of education to challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and build a more welcoming classroom for all students.

At the same time, this milestone reminds me of the challenges that remain and the role I can play in supporting continued progress. There will likely be individuals in Thailand for whom these changes feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable, especially in more traditional or rural communities. As a newcomer, I can contribute positively by remaining open-minded, learning from local perspectives, and modeling respect and allyship. Whether through subtle gestures like inclusive language or through integrating themes of equality and respect into my teaching materials, I hope to be part of a community that not only celebrates this legal progress but also works toward deeper cultural transformation and inclusion.

[William Johnston]

Article: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/thailand-records-7-yy-drop-in-foreign-visitors-so-far-in-2025/ar-AA1MavVF?ocid=BingNewsVerp

The article highlights a 7.11% decline in foreign tourist arrivals to Thailand as of 7th September 2025, totaling around 22.39 million visitors compared to the previous year. The tourism ministry trimmed its full year projection from 37 million to 33 million arrivals. This remains well below the nearly 40 million visitors welcomed in 2019, before the pandemic. Notably, China continues to be the largest source of tourists, contributing approximately 3.16 million visitors to date. The downturn reflects broader challenges in global travel and poses significant implications for Thailand’s economy and tourism-dependent sectors.

As someone moving to Thailand, this trend may influence my daily experience. A decrease in tourists could mean fewer crowds at popular tourist spots like Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Chang Mai’s night markets, or the islands in the south, something many expats and long term visitors find appealing. On the flip side, this decline might slow down the availability of some specialised services or activities that thrive on tourist demand, such as international guided tours or high volume shuttle services. It may also impact the pricing and staffing of the restaurants, local shops, and hospitality sectors. Staying aware of these shifts can help me plan more authentic and sustainable experiences and support businesses adapting to this changing landscape.

[William Johnston]

Great post! You did a strong job explaining Thailand’s political history and the ongoing struggle between military influence and democratic reform. I like how you highlighted the role of young people in pushing for change through the Move Forward Party, while also pointing out the structural barriers like the 250 military-appointed senators that make it difficult for pro-democracy parties to govern even when they win. Your point about travelers needing to understand this context is also important—it really shows how deeply politics shapes everyday life in Thailand. Overall, you gave a clear and insightful analysis of why this election is such a pivotal moment.

[Jessica Henty]

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/poverty-matters/2012/mar/27/thailand-first-steps-inclusive-education

Thailand has made significant strides toward inclusive education, particularly for children with disabilities. Legislative measures have been pivotal in promoting access to mainstream education for all children, regardless of their abilities. These laws mandate that children with disabilities be integrated into regular schools, aiming to provide equal educational opportunities. However, the implementation of these policies has faced challenges, including cultural attitudes and resource limitations. For instance, some educators and school administrators have expressed concerns about the adequacy of resources and training to support inclusive education effectively. Despite these obstacles, there has been a noticeable increase in the enrolment of students with disabilities in mainstream schools, indicating a positive shift towards inclusivity.

As someone who will be teaching English in Thailand, understanding the nuances of inclusive education is essential. While international schools often have established frameworks for inclusive education, Thai public schools may still be in the early stages of implementation. Being aware of the cultural context and the challenges faced in integrating students with disabilities, can help in adapting teaching methods to be more inclusive. Additionally, engaging with local educators and participating in professional development opportunities can contribute to the broader goal of fostering an inclusive educational environment. My role as an educator extends beyond teaching language; it includes promoting understanding, empathy, and acceptance among students, which aligns with Thailand’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive society.

[Jessica Henty]

Hi Kate,

I really appreciate your reflection on this article. You’ve highlighted an important point about how access to resources and different learning styles can significantly impact student engagement and outcomes. I especially agree with your observation that even small, cost-effective tools can make a huge difference in the classroom.

Your connection to your own learning experiences is insightful, particularly in considering the language barrier you’ll face while teaching in Thailand. Thinking ahead about how to adapt your teaching methods and incorporate a variety of learning styles will be essential for creating an inclusive and engaging environment. I also like how you linked the article’s main point to immediate action: starting now rather than waiting. That proactive mindset is exactly what can make your lessons impactful and memorable for your students.

[Camille Denny]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3100561/education-under-scrutiny-once-more
Education Under Scrutiny Once More
This article discusses how Thailand’s education system is currently facing backlash after international assesments ranked Thai students in the lower half of the global performance tables in comparison to their regional peers in literacy and skills development. The World Population Review 2025 stated that Thailand’s literacy rate stands at 94.1% which is lower than Brunei, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia (which all rank from 95 – 97.6%.)
The director of ONESQA, Prof Ong-art Naiyapatana, is hoping to bring reform soon to students, in understanding that reform is essential to empower Thailand’s future. This sentiment was also echoed by the OECD Skills Strategy Thailand report (released in July) which highlighted the need for reform with Thailand’s shortage of digital skills, with only 1% of the population having advanced digital proficiency. The Digital Council of Thailand hopes to combat this by aiming to raise overall digital literacy to 70% by the end of this year.
The new model, that will hopefully bring change, encourages schools to focus on Self-Assesment Reports and to collaborate with external experts who can provide solutions tailored to their specific challenges. It has also been vocalized that there should be a focus of greater support for schools in lower-performing areas, so that baseline standards can be raised.
I decided to read this article to gain a better understanding of the current education standards in Thailand, as I am about to begin my journey as a new teacher there. I would be curious to see how the curriculum in Thailand is different compared to their regional neighbors to understand why they are falling short in comparison with their literacy rates and underperformance in the OECD International Student Assessment. With the lack of digital proficiency in Thailand, I am curious to see what the education standards are in terms of technology based learning and digital education in school systems. Is this something that will likely be combatted as younger students are exposed to more technology in this modern era?
I’m intrigued to see how Thailand progresses to evolve their schooling systems, and what methods they will use to see better results for their future students.

[Author]

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