By Caitlyn Lightsey
The Thailand education system is vastly different from the system in the United States. There are in-class differences that stand out, such as teacher and student roles. Thai teachers are respected because they are in a position of authority; on the other hand, in the United States, teachers are sometimes treated like garbage by parents and students. From the beginning of their education, students are held responsible for their own work. “Teachers teach. It’s the student’s responsibility to do the work and learn” (Belle). In other words, teachers are not at fault when a student does not make passing grades on their school work. The students are expected to study and work hard to be able to pass their classes and make good grades in school.
Another area that is different from the United States is how the education system is structured in Thailand. There is no kindergarten in Thailand. Preschool is not required for children; however, it is encouraged for students to get a jumpstart on their education. That being said, there is not anything taught in preschool that is not covered in the first grade. There are twelve grades (1-12). Although all twelve grades are free, the first nine grades are the only ones that are required for a certification in Thailand. Anything above grade nine is typically for their education go into the working class. Those who opt out of continuing their education go into the working class.
While in school, the students work hard to understand several different key areas: basic skills (Thai and maths), life experience (science and social science), character development (physical education, ethics, art, and music), work education (technology and basic vocation skills), and special education (English and other subjects meeting local requirements). The first six grades are considered Primary Education and a certificate of primary education must be achieved to be able to move on to Lower Secondary Education instruction and learning, grades 7-9. Primary Education, or equivalent, must be completed before moving on to the next level of education. In Lower Secondary Education, instruction and/or learning time must NOT exceed six hours in a day. Once they complete the Certificate for Lower Secondary Education, students have the choice of continuing on with their education or beginning to work. The students who choose to continue in their education seek out the top schools for Upper Secondary Education. The top schools have competitive entrance exams and the students that attend them have the best chances at getting into a university.
In regards to immigration, before 1927, entering and leaving Thailand was done freely. In 1927, however, The Royal Immigration Act 2470 was created by King Rama VII Prachthipok. With this act, an Immigration Department was created and the ability to enter and leave the country as a person wanted came to an end. The Immigration Department of 50 men was created within the Ministry of the Interior. This department was charged to control the arrivals and departures from the country. The Thai king put these restrictions on the Thai borders because he wanted to keep up with civilized nations. In 1932, the Immigration Department was linked with the Thai police department and was renamed the Immigration Division. When it comes to immigration to the United States from Thailand, or any other country, to obtain an immigrant visa, a foreign citizen has to be sponsored by a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Sources
Education in Thailand, WENR, 31 March 2022, wenr.wes.org/2018/education in Thailand
History of Thailand, Encyclopedia Britannica
