Background
In 2023, the British Council will conduct context-specific research in this area to have a better understanding of the “state of play” of English as a Subject (EaS) in the tertiary sector in Thailand. The research findings are expected to shed light on developments since the 2016 policy briefing and provide the basis for more targeted approaches into future EaS research in higher education.
This research project was conducted to illustrate the state of English as a subject in Thailand, which could be a preliminary step towards future research and actions aimed at elevating the English language proficiency of students in higher education institutions.
The state of English as a Subject (EaS) in the higher education in Thailand
The present study illustrates the state of English as a subject (EaS), encompassing the policy onEnglish language and implementation, curriculum and course design (which involve learning outcomes, teaching and learning approaches and assessment), the support and budget allocations, teacher qualifications, as well as exposure to English language such as extra-curricular activities.
It is important to highlight and recognise that HEIs in Thailand have autonomy and should be seen within their own particular contexts, including student intake, institutional culture, the surrounding communities and the financial support available, all of which strongly influence their practices in developing students' English proficiency. As such, there is no attempt in this study for a ‘one-size-fits-all’ goal to be applied to HEIs. Instead, a nationwide learning outcome should be set in collaboration with the outputs defined by HEIs.