Revisiting English learning in Thai schools: why learners matter

Abstract

Given the increased prominence of English as a language for international communication, a question arises whether to what extent Thai school students are equipped with adequate English proficiency to be viable and intelligible in their actual use of English. In this paper, instead of simply calling attention to new English teaching methods and possibly unique types of teachers, the writer argues that what may be in need concerns the ways learners of English are perceived and the way English learning is understood. It is therefore suggested that learners who are at the core of learning be heard comprehensively. Based on learners’ needs and interests, opportunities and insights to help Thai school English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners to better develop their English skills can be had.