Cross cultural differences between Thailand and China - The perspective of Chinese teachers in Thailand.

Abstract

This paper aims to study the cultural differences between Thai and Chinese people in the education environment. The paper is about the perspectives of Chinese teachers toward Thai students and how Chinese teachers adapt their teaching styles to the Thai context. This information was gathered by in-depth interviews with open-ended questions. The author interviewed Thai and Chinese teachers who work at the Language department of Sriyanusorn School. This paper identified the aspects of differences between Thai and Chinese students from the perspective of Chinese teachers. These aspects are: low enthusiasm in learning, shyness, a desire to have fun, short term time orientation and kindness. The author also provides recommendations for Chinese teachers on how to adapt to the Thai cultural context.

KEY WORDS: Cultural differences / Thailand / China / Education / Thai class room