Modern Approaches to Teaching Thai as a Foreign Language Pedagogy Digital Technology and Intercultural Learning
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This Article aimed toThis academic article aims to examine modern approaches to teaching Thai as a foreign language in response to the changing context of language education in the twenty-first century. Thai language learning for foreign learners is no longer limited to memorizing vocabulary, grammar rules, pronunciation patterns, or writing systems. Rather, it should be designed as a communicative, practical, cultural, and technology-enhanced learning process that enables learners to use Thai meaningfully in real-life situations. The article discusses the significance of Thai language instruction for foreign learners in terms of daily communication, academic participation, professional interaction, cultural understanding, and intercultural adaptation.
The article proposes that effective Thai language teaching should be grounded in learner-centered instruction, communicative language teaching, task-based learning, experiential learning, cultural integration, and digital pedagogy. Digital tools, online platforms, educational games, multimedia resources, and generative artificial intelligence can support personalized learning, language practice, feedback, and autonomous learning. However, technology should not replace the teacher’s role. Instead, it should be used as a supportive tool under careful pedagogical guidance. In addition, the integration of Thai culture is essential because Thai language use is closely related to politeness, social hierarchy, religious contexts, interpersonal relationships, and cultural values.
The article concludes that teachers of Thai as a foreign language should shift their role from knowledge transmitters to learning designers, facilitators of communication, cultural mediators, and ethical users of technology. A modern Thai language classroom should help foreign learners not only know the Thai language but also use it appropriately, confidently, and respectfully within Thai society and multicultural contexts
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