Blogs on Teaching and Living in Thailand

Hello and Sawasdee krup. I would very much like to talk a bit about this topic, as it can prompt many answers and opinions. I would also like to point out that I am a native of Thailand, having grown up and been living here, more or less, since I was two, but using English as my language of education (since I went to an international school here) and Thai as my social language. I can say that I grew up with both English or Thai as my first or second language, depending on perspective, so perhaps I can shed some light on this from my experience as a student, possessor of two languages, and now a teacher here for 12 years.

One thing I want to make clear is that, to me, teaching is an art. I believe there is no right or wrong way to teach. What works in one class may or will not in another. Your experience as a student (what worked for you or not back then), as a teacher, the country’s and school’s culture, what you learned in school as you become a teacher, the school’s expectations and curriculum, your mood/energy level on a certain day, etc. all factors in and affects one’s teaching style. In the end, what matters is that the students retain what they learn and apply it in life. So, for some, Thai should never, ever be used in a classroom. For others, its ok. The end goal should still be the same. So, as for me, I’m somewhere in the middle. I learned English with a fair share of Thai, and I learned Thai with some amount of English; all used to reinforce what I was being taught in each language.

So, yes, I use Thai as a supporting tool to check understanding. This works very well in classes or with students who are weak in English to being with. I do not think there is anything wrong with it. I completely understand the scenario where students know I may be fluent in their native language; and thus will question why to use English in class when Thai can be used instead. To me, the solution is simple. If they speak Thai to me, I will completely ignore them. Students yearn attention, and this kills their desire to seek mine (a white looking guy that speaks fluent Thai – an encounter they perhaps do not come across very often). You can also have a penalty or points deduction system, but again, it depends. If the kids converse to each other, perhaps explaining the lesson to their confused friend, then, is that wrong?

Another advantage I have is that I understand all the swear words. And let me tell you, Secondary Level students swear…A LOT! And I mean, practically every two or three sentences. I can assure you, I did so as well with my Thai friends. But, things were quite strict in my international school when I studied there as a student, and any instances of swearing (in English and in Thai) will be dealt with a severe punishment. Not so sure why it is used so liberally in Thai schools. Perhaps teachers have turned a blind eye on this. Or, some students might see a foreigner teaching their class and see it as a green light to swear.

Lastly, I use Thai as a way to communicate my disappointment and discipline to certain students. Most of the students who act up tend to have very poor English. And, what is the point disciplining a student in English if they don’t understand English in the first place?

In any case, I do not see any issue with using Thai in a classroom. Again, if it is limited to a tool to check understanding (and not as the language used to teach), it can be of a great benefit to both you and the student. Some may still disagree with me, and that is fine. Every teacher has their methods, ways and styles. In the end, if the students learn from your teachings, then the goal has been achieved.

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Blog by Collen

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Note that the author of the blog is expressing personal thoughts and musings, which do not necessarily reflect those of KruTeacher. Therefore, KruTeacher.com cannot be held responsible for any potential inaccuracies that may be present in the blog.