Cultural intelligence in the workplace evidence from a Thai high school.

Abstract

This paper will discuss about aspects of Thai culture where foreign teachers felt a need to adapt their existing strategies to teach more effectively. This research focuses on one bilingual high school in Bangkok. Data were gathered through in-depth interviewing approach based on the cultural intelligence frame work. The qualitative information obtained was analyzed through content analysis. Six main aspects were identified in the findings which are: passivity (choēi), laziness (kīetkhrān), taking the easy way out (ruksabuy), fun (sanuk), kindness (jai dee) with strict rules, and communication in Thai-English (Tinglish). By being aware of the identified cultural aspects, foreign teachers can adjust their teaching style more effectively. KEY WORDS: Cultural intelligence / High school / Thai classroom / Culturally responsive teaching