Intercultural Communication Problems and Adjustment
between Foreign Instructors and Thai Students
at Rajabhat Universities in Bangkok
Patcharapa Euamornvanich
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify to what extent intercultural communication problems and adjustment affect foreign instructors and Thai students at Rajabhat universities in the Bangkok area. This research is qualitative research based on intercultural communication theory and adjustment concepts. In term of data collection, the researcher has conducted in-depth interviews with foreign instructors and focus groups with Thai students, and also analyzed the related literature. The results showed that in the beginning foreign instructors experience culture shock. In term of the classroom environment, Thailand differs from other countries. The most crucial problem of intercultural communication and adjustment in classrooms is language. Nevertheless, the instructors often make efforts to learn the Thai language and culture. In addition, Thai colleagues and students can help the foreign instructors to learn this, and to adjust to the new environment. Foreign instructors have to adjust their teaching methods to the Thai classroom environment. Learning different dimensions of Thai culture and adjusting the appropriate teaching methods can help foreign teachers to be successful in communicating with Thai students.
Keywords : Intercultural Communication, Adjustment, Foreign instructors, Thai Students
