ประวัติและผลงานของ ดร.ถาวร ทิศทองคำ
Biography and Works of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam
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Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam: A Prominent Figure in English Language Education
This summary details Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam's background and academic achievements, focusing on his professional career in English language education. The information provided is drawn directly from the sources provided and highlights Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s contributions to teaching, research, and mentorship within his field.
Personal Life and Education:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam is married with two children.
He can be reached via email at [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
His mobile number is 08-6049-8716.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s academic journey reflects a commitment to English language acquisition and pedagogy:
Ph.D. in Management Science (2011): Shinawatra University
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) (1997): Srinakharinwirot University
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English (1993): Srinakharinwirot University
Certificate in Advanced English (2005): Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
Certificate in English (1993): The National Institution of Development Administration (NIDA)
Extensive Teaching Experience:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam has dedicated 32 years and 6 months to the field of education. This extensive experience is particularly notable within Sripatum University. He also works as an online educator for The Catholic University of New Spain, Florida, USA.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s teaching focuses on equipping students with practical English skills applicable to real-world situations, particularly within business contexts. He has developed unique teaching methodologies and actively engages in research to enhance English language pedagogy.
Awards and Recognitions:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s dedication to teaching and research has earned him numerous accolades:
Man of the Year in Social Science: Awarded at the Asia Pacific Academic Summits Peace and Development, by The Catholic University of New Spain, Florida, USA. This recognition highlights Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s significant contribution to the social sciences.
Outstanding World-PEC Coordinating Teacher in Promoting Morality Award: Presented by The Dharmakaya Foundation and The World Peace Ethics Club, this award acknowledges Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s commitment to fostering morality and ethics in education.
Outstanding Teacher Award to Encourage and Support Students in Moral Ethics: Also presented by The Dharmakaya Foundation and The World Peace Ethics Club, this award further emphasizes Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s dedication to ethical conduct and his role in supporting students' moral development.
National Outstanding Senior Teacher Award in Humanities: Awarded by the Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning, Thailand Chapter (ASAIHL Thailand), this honour recognizes Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s exceptional contributions as a senior educator in the humanities.
Outstanding Reviewer Award: Bestowed by Emerald Group Publishing Limited, USA, this accolade acknowledges Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s expertise and contributions as a reviewer of academic publications.
Sripatum University Outstanding Academic Staff Award in Humanities: This recognition highlights Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s exceptional service and achievements as an academic staff member within the humanities at Sripatum University.
National Outstanding Teacher Award in Humanities: This prestigious award, conferred by the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions of Thailand (APHEIT), further solidifies Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s position as a leading figure in English language education within Thailand.
Innovative Teaching Techniques:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s teaching methodologies demonstrate his commitment to effective pedagogy:
1. SHARP MODE Technique:
This unique approach emphasizes:
Sharing
Helping
Accepting
Refreshing
Praising
Modelling
Organising
Devoting
Evaluating
The SHARP MODE technique is detailed in his publication “How to Overcome Obstacles in Teaching English," featured in the Sripatum University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences.
2. Active Learning:
This method emphasizes student engagement and active participation in the learning process.
Dr. Thitthongkam outlines this approach in his research article "Learning Achievements in English Grammar and Usage By Using an Active Learning Management Process."
3. Blended Learning:
This method combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning elements.
His research article "Blended Learning for Improving of English Skills: Learners' Perspectives" explores the effectiveness of this approach and is published in the Journal of Research and Development, Baan Somdejchaopraya Rajabhat University.
4. Task-Based Approach:
This method focuses on engaging students in meaningful tasks that require them to use language practically.
He presented his research on this topic, "Using a Tasked-Based Approach for Improving of Academic English Writing Skills," at the 2023 academic conference "The Professional Teaching and Student Engagement in Higher Education, Thailand."
These innovative teaching techniques demonstrate Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s commitment to creating engaging and effective learning experiences for his students.
Research Excellence:
Dr. Thitthongkam has an impressive record of research, primarily focused on enhancing English language teaching and learning:
21 Research Projects: He has conducted 21 research projects aimed at improving teaching and learning in English.
Diverse Research Topics: His research addresses a broad range of topics, including:
Developing English speaking skills through work & travel programmes
Students' ability to answer standardized English proficiency tests such as the TOEIC and CEFR
Using online media to enhance student-teacher communication
The effectiveness of task-based approaches in improving writing skills
Experiences and challenges faced by English instructors
Blended learning and its impact on English language acquisition
Utilizing social media platforms like Edmodo to enhance writing skills
The role of communicative exercises on the internet in developing writing abilities
Analyzing essay writing abilities of undergraduate English majors
Conducting follow-up studies on graduates to assess the long-term impact of English language programmes
Examining teaching methodologies and classroom management in large classroom settings
Exploring the use of the World Peace Ethics Contest to enhance reading skills
Identifying new trends in English language teaching for young learners
Improving writing skills through unconventional methods like using spam emails
Investigating the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry and the role of language proficiency
Examining the impact of language and culture on customer satisfaction within the Thai tourism industry
Analysing the roles of foreign language skills in business administration
Publications and Conference Presentations:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research findings are disseminated through various academic publications and conference presentations:
Published Research Articles (22): He has authored numerous research articles published in esteemed academic journals, both nationally and internationally.
Conference Proceedings (National - 17, International - 11): He has actively presented his research findings at numerous national and international conferences.
Academic Articles (6): He has authored several academic articles published in notable journals.
Dedication to Mentorship:
Beyond his own achievements, Dr. Thitthongkam actively contributes to the professional development of his peers:
Supporting Fellow Educators: He provides guidance and support to fellow English language instructors, particularly those teaching English for Business Communication.
Sharing Expertise: He shares his knowledge and experience through workshops and collaborative research projects, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within his department.
Conclusion:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam stands as a highly accomplished and dedicated educator in English language teaching. His unwavering commitment to research, innovative teaching methodologies, and mentoring future generations of English language instructors has significantly impacted his field. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s work continues to shape the landscape of English language education, ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
What teaching techniques does Dr.Thavorn Thitthongkam employ in his English language courses?
Here are some of the teaching techniques that Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam employs in his English language courses:
SHARP MODE Technique: This technique, developed by Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam himself, emphasizes nine key elements: Sharing, Helping, Accepting, Refreshing, Praising, Modelling, Organising, Devoting, and Evaluating. He outlined this technique in his publication "How to Overcome Obstacles in Teaching English", published in the Sripatum University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Active Learning: This approach promotes student engagement and active participation in the learning process.
Blended Learning: This method combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning elements.
Task-Based Approach: This method focuses on engaging students in meaningful tasks that require them to use language practically. For example, in one of his courses, he had students create video clips of job interviews.
Teaching Techniques that Combine Teaching and Research: Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam believes that teaching and research should be mutually reinforcing processes. He incorporates his research findings into his teaching, and he also provides opportunities for his students to participate in research projects. For example, in one of his courses, he had students work on a project called "Teaching Thai to Foreigners".
In addition to these specific techniques, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam also uses a variety of other methods to create an engaging and effective learning environment. For example, he uses D-learning, videos, and other media to make his lessons more interactive. He also provides his students with opportunities to learn from real-world materials, such as job postings and business articles. He believes in tailoring his teaching to the specific needs of his students and in providing them with regular feedback.
What is the focus of Dr Thavorn Thitthongkam’s published?
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s published works primarily focus on English language teaching and learning, particularly within the context of business communication. His research covers a wide array of topics, all centered around making English language education more effective and relevant to students' professional lives.
Here's a breakdown of the key themes emerging from his publications:
Effectiveness of Different Teaching Methodologies: A significant portion of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research explores the effectiveness of various teaching methodologies in the English language classroom. He investigates approaches such as Active Learning, Blended Learning, Task-Based Learning, and his own SHARP MODE technique. This focus on diverse teaching methods highlights his commitment to finding the most engaging and effective ways to teach English.
Enhancing Specific English Language Skills: Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s publications demonstrate a keen interest in improving specific English language skills, particularly those essential for business communication. His works address the development of writing skills, reading comprehension, speaking abilities, and vocabulary acquisition. This dedication to individual skill development emphasizes his understanding of the multifaceted nature of language learning.
The Role of Technology in Language Learning: Recognizing the growing significance of technology in education, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam explores how technology can be effectively integrated into language learning. His research examines the use of online media for student-teacher communication, social media platforms like Edmodo for writing enhancement, and communicative online exercises to develop writing abilities. This focus on technology underscores his commitment to staying at the forefront of educational innovation.
English for Specific Purposes (ESP): A recurring theme in Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s work is the application of English for specific purposes, with a particular emphasis on business and tourism contexts. This focus on ESP highlights his dedication to equipping students with the language skills needed to succeed in their chosen professional fields.
In addition to these core areas, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research also examines:
Challenges Faced by English Language Instructors: This area of focus reflects his dedication to supporting his fellow educators and addressing practical concerns within the teaching profession.
Assessing the Long-Term Impact of English Language Programmes: By conducting follow-up studies on graduates, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam evaluates the long-term effects of English language programmes, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-based practice.
Overall, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s published works provide a valuable contribution to the field of English language teaching and learning. His research not only advances pedagogical knowledge but also offers practical insights that can be directly applied to classroom settings, particularly those focused on business communication.
How many research projects has Dr Thavorn Thitthongkam conducted?
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam has conducted at least 21 research projects relating to teaching, as listed in his curriculum vitae. The document includes the titles of each project, links to some publications, and details about which were presented at conferences.
Research Projects Conducted by Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam
Here are the titles of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research projects, translated into English where applicable:
English Speaking Skill Development through the Work & Travel Program in USA
The Ability to Answer the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) of Students Majoring in English Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University
The Ability to Answer the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) of Students Majoring in English Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University
A Study of Satisfaction in Using Online Media for Communication Between Students and Lecturers of English Business Communication Students, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University
Using a Tasked-Based Approach fo Improving of Academic English Writing Skills of Learners Majoring in English for Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University
English Instructor Experience: Success, Problems and Additional Guidelines
Blended Learning for Improving of English Skills: Learners' Perspectives
Developing English Writing Skills by Using Edmodo Social Network
Developing English Writing Skills by Using Internet Communication
The Ability of Fourth-Year English Majors in Private Universities to Answer Essay Questions
A Follow-Up of Graduates from the Faculty of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University, 1999 Academic Year
A Study of Teaching Strategies and Management of a Large Classroom: Successes, Problems, and Solutions
Enhancing English Reading Skills of Students Majoring in English for Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University Through the World Peace Ethics Contest
A New Trend in an English Course for Early Children
Improving English Writing Skills with Spam Emails
Thai Tourism Industry Competitiveness in the Future: Perspectives to Current Tourism Industry, Competitiveness in the Tourism Market and the Language Roles
Roles of Language and Culture towards Customer Satisfaction in the Competitiveness of the Thai Tourism Industry
A Study of Language Roles in Thai Tourism Industry Competitiveness
Language Roles and Model Tour Company in Enhancing Competitiveness in Tourism Industry
The Roles of Foreign Language in Business Administration
Language Roles in Communication in Tourism Industry
The source also mentions a research project entitled The Need for Language Skills Training for Tour Company Staff in the Thai Tourism Industry: Managerial Perspectives but does not assign it a number.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s CV only includes information about research projects he has worked on since 2018. It's possible he conducted additional research prior to that date.
Here are links to some of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam's publications
"เทคนิคการสอนภาษาอังกฤษอย่างไรให้ชนะอุปสรรค" (How to Overcome Obstacles in Teaching English): This article, published in the Sripatum University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, outlines Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s SHARP MODE teaching technique.
Link: http://dspace.spu.ac.th/handle/123456789/1592
"Blended Learning for Improving of English Skills: Learners' Perspectives": This research article explores the effectiveness of blended learning in improving English language skills.
Link: http://brms.bsru.ac.th/download/journal/V2No1.pdf
"การพัฒนาทักษะการเขียนภาษาอังกฤษโดยใช้เครือข่ายสังคมออนไลน์ชื่อเอ็ดโมโด" (Developing English Writing Skills by Using Edmodo Social Network): This article, published in an unspecified journal, examines the use of the social media platform Edmodo for enhancing English writing skills.
Link: https://so05.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/hssnsru/issue/view/13029/Vol1No1
"การพัฒนาทักษะการเขียนภาษาอังกฤษโดยใช้กิจกรรมการสื่อสารบนเครือข่ายอินเทอร์เน็ต" (Developing English Writing Skills by Using Internet Communication): This article focuses on using online communicative exercises to develop English writing skills.
Link: https://so06.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/thoughts/article/view/59344
"การศึกษาความสามารถทางการเขียนเรียงความภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อตอบค าถามความเรียงของผู้เรียนระดับปริญญาตรี ชั้นปีที่ 4 สาขาวิชาภาษาอังกฤษ สังกัดสถาบันการศึกษาเอกชน" (The Ability of Fourth-Year English Majors in Private Universities to Answer Essay Questions): This article, published in the journal Pasaa Paritat, investigates the essay writing abilities of English majors.
Link: https://www.culi.chula.ac.th/th/pasaa-paritat/view/24
"English Speaking Skill Development through the Work & Travel Program in USA": This research, which explored the impact of work and travel programmes on English speaking skills, was presented at the Sripatum University Conference (SPUCON)
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113888106
"The Ability to Answer the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) of Students Majoring in English Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University": This research, which examined students' ability to meet CEFR standards, was presented at SPUCON
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113886910
"The Ability to Answer the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) of Students Majoring in English Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam presented the findings of this research, which focused on students' performance on the TOEIC exam, at SPUCON
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113887469
"A Study of Satisfaction in Using Online Media for Communication Between Students and Lecturers of English Business Communication Students, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University": This research investigated the use of online media for student-teacher communication
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113888527
"Using a Tasked-Based Approach for Improving of Academic English Writing Skills of Learners Majoring in English for Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam examined task-based approaches to teaching English writing in this project, which was presented at a professional conference.
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113888879
"English Instructor Experience: Success, Problems and Additional Guidelines": This research, presented at SPUCON, focused on the experiences and challenges faced by English language instructors.
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113889656
"Blended Learning for Improving of English Skills: Learners' Perspectives": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam also presented this research on blended learning at SPUCON.
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113890218
"Developing English Writing Skills by Using Edmodo Social Network": This research project, which explored using Edmodo to enhance English writing skills, was presented at SPUCON
Link: https://www.academia.edu/113890218
"Developing English Writing Skills by Using Internet Communication": The findings of this research on using internet communication to enhance English writing skills were shared by Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam at SPUCON
Link: Not provided
"The Ability of Fourth-Year English Majors in Private Universities to Answer Essay Questions": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam presented his research on essay writing abilities at SPUCON
Link: http://dspace.spu.ac.th/handle/123456789/1333
"A Follow-Up of Graduates from the Faculty of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University, 1999 Academic Year": This project, which tracked the long-term impacts of an English language programme, was presented at SPUCON
Link: https://dric.nrct.go.th/index.php?/Search/SearchDetail/128293
"A Study of Language Roles in Thai Tourism Industry Competitiveness": This project examined the roles of language in the Thai tourism industry and was presented at SPUCON
Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378158284
"Language Roles and Model Tour Company in Enhancing Competitiveness in Tourism Industry": This project, presented at SPUCON, focused on language roles and model tour companies in enhancing competitiveness within the tourism industry
Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260046234
"Enhancing English Reading Skills of Students Majoring in English for Business Communication, School of Liberal Arts, Sripatum University Through the World Peace Ethics Contest": This research project explored using the World Peace Ethics Contest to enhance reading skills. It was presented at the International Sripatum University Conference (SPUCON)
Links: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330441284, http://dspace.spu.ac.th/handle/123456789/5888?locale=th
"A New Trend in an English Course for Early Children": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam presented this research, which explored new trends in teaching English to young children, at the International Sripatum University Conference (SPUCON)
Link: https://www.academia.edu/114760840/
"Improving English Writing Skills with Spam Emails": Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam presented this research on using spam emails to improve English writing skills at SPUCON
Link: https://www.academia.edu/116045054/
The source lists some additional research articles by Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam, but they are not described as research projects.
Please note that this list of research projects is not exhaustive. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s curriculum vitae only includes information from the past five years, so he may have conducted other research projects not included in this document. Additionally, some links point to the same document, so there may be some overlap in the research topics.
What evidence does Dr Thavorn Thitthongkam provide for the effectiveness of his teaching?
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam provides evidence for the effectiveness of his teaching in a few key ways:
He developed, implemented, and published his own unique teaching methodology. Known as the SHARP MODE, the methodology emphasizes a learner-centered approach. The acronym stands for Sharing, Helping, Accepting, Refreshing, Praising, Modeling, Organizing, Devoting, and Evaluating. He outlines this approach in his article "เทคนิคการสอนภาษาอังกฤษอย่างไรให้ชนะอุปสรรค," published in the Sripatum University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences
He uses a diverse range of teaching methods in his classroom. In addition to his SHARP MODE methodology, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam uses a variety of other teaching techniques in his classes, including
Active Learning
Blended Learning
The Task-Based Approach
Teaching Techniques that Combine Teaching and Research
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research explores and assesses the efficacy of different teaching methods. As seen in the list of his publications from our conversation history, many of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research projects are focused on exploring different pedagogical approaches to teaching English. For example, he has
Studied the effectiveness of blended learning
Investigated the use of the Task-Based Approach in improving students' academic English writing
Explored the use of social media platforms, such as Edmodo, for developing English writing skills
Examined the impact of work and travel programmes on English speaking
Studied how students perform on standardized English tests, like the TOEIC and CEFR
He shares his pedagogical research and findings with other educators. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam disseminates his research findings through publications, conference presentations, and teaching workshops. Notably, he has presented at both national and international conferences. For example, he has presented research at:
The National and International Sripatum University Conference (SPUCON)
The International Sripatum University Conference (SPUCON)
The 3rd International Colloquium on Tourism and Leisure (ICTL)
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam provides extensive mentorship to other teachers. He mentored other teachers in his department on research methods, designing learning assessments, and implementing a range of teaching techniques, such as Active Learning and Blended Learning. He also led teacher trainings for English teachers at both the university and secondary school level, demonstrating a commitment to improving English pedagogy in Thailand more broadly.
It is important to note that the sources primarily focus on Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s teaching activities and research output. They do not contain information about his students' performance or other metrics that could provide direct insight into his teaching effectiveness.
How does Dr Thavorn Thitthongkam stay up to date in his field?
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam stays up to date in his field in a number of ways. He prioritizes remaining informed about the latest developments in English language pedagogy:
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam regularly reviews scholarly publications. He reads academic journals, research studies, and books in the field of English language teaching to remain informed about new pedagogical approaches.
He attends conferences and workshops in his field. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam attends conferences and workshops to stay abreast of current trends and new ideas in English language teaching. This includes attending conferences at both the national and international level.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam participates actively in professional organisations. He is involved with a number of relevant professional organisations, such as the Thai TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and the Thailand Reading Association. This involvement allows him to engage with other educators, participate in professional development opportunities, and share pedagogical knowledge with others in his field.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam serves as a peer reviewer for academic journals. He regularly serves as a peer reviewer, evaluating articles submitted for publication to academic journals such as Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, Emerald Publishing, SIU Journal of Management, International Journal of Universitatis Danubius Economica, and International Journal of Multidisciplinary Business and Management (IJMBM). This provides him with an opportunity to stay informed about cutting edge research in his field and to play an active role in shaping the direction of English language teaching scholarship.
Furthermore, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s commitment to staying current with developments in technology and incorporating technology into his teaching also helps him to stay up to date in his field. The sources describe a number of ways that he integrates technology into his teaching:
Using a Learning Management System. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam incorporates blended learning into his classes, using a learning management system, D-Learning.spu.ac.th, to provide his students with additional learning resources and support.
Integrating online teaching platforms. He incorporates online platforms specifically designed for language learning, such as Quatet, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel, into his teaching.
Engaging students with a range of digital resources. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam provides students with links to a variety of online resources, including English language learning websites (e.g. LinkedIn Learning, TED Talks, EnglishClub.com), professional networking websites (e.g. LinkedIn), and news sources (e.g. The Financial Times).
Using technology to provide flexible learning opportunities. He provides opportunities for students to learn asynchronously through the use of online platforms.
Using technology to facilitate student research and learning. Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam uses a variety of online resources and digital tools to help his students learn new vocabulary, practice grammar, improve their English writing, and prepare for standardized English proficiency exams.
Notably, the sources do not explain how Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam stays up to date on emerging technologies. You may wish to independently verify this information.
What methodology did Dr Thavorn Thitthongkam develop?
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam developed the SHARP MODE methodology for teaching English. This learner-centered approach is detailed in his article "เทคนิคการสอนภาษาอังกฤษอย่างไรให้ชนะอุปสรรค," which was published in the Sripatum University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences. Although the title of this article is in Thai, it translates to "How to Teach English to Overcome Obstacles" in English.
The SHARP MODE methodology is based on nine key principles:
Sharing
Helping
Accepting
Refreshing
Praising
Modeling
Organising
Devoting
Evaluating
While the sources do not provide detailed definitions of each principle, they do offer some insights into how these principles are put into practice in Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s classroom. For example, his emphasis on using a diverse range of teaching methods aligns with his principles of Sharing, Helping, and Accepting. As seen in our conversation history, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam incorporates a number of different teaching approaches in his classroom, including Active Learning, Blended Learning, the Task-Based Approach, and Teaching Techniques that Combine Teaching and Research. This suggests that he values adapting his teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and needs. His commitment to incorporating technology in the classroom, as discussed in our conversation history, also reflects these principles. He uses a variety of online learning platforms, digital resources, and educational technologies, suggesting he is open to sharing new tools and resources with his students to help them learn more effectively. His use of technology to provide flexible learning opportunities, allowing students to learn at their own pace and on their own time, can also be seen as a way of helping students learn in a way that works best for them.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s emphasis on creating a positive learning environment and providing students with positive feedback aligns with his principles of Refreshing and Praising. In the sources, he discusses the importance of creating a learning environment that is engaging, challenging, and supportive. He also stresses the importance of giving students positive feedback that focuses on their strengths and encourages them to continue learning and improving.
His principles of Modeling, Organising, Devoting, and Evaluating are apparent in his approach to designing his courses, conducting pedagogical research, and mentoring other teachers. As evidenced in the sources, Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam carefully considers the learning objectives for his courses, selecting appropriate teaching materials, incorporating relevant research, and implementing effective assessment methods. He also regularly conducts and publishes research on English language pedagogy, demonstrating his devotion to the field and his commitment to improving his teaching practices. Additionally, he mentors other English language teachers, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them develop their own teaching skills. This suggests that he sees teaching as a collaborative endeavour and values supporting other educators.
It is worth noting that, aside from listing the nine key principles, the sources do not offer a very detailed explanation of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s SHARP MODE methodology. Additional research may be required to better understand the nuances of this methodology.
Summary of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam's PhD Dissertation: "A Study of Language Roles in Thai Tourism Industry Competitiveness"
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam's PhD dissertation, "A Study of Language Roles in Thai Tourism Industry Competitiveness," explores the multifaceted ways in which language affects the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry. The dissertation, completed in 2011 at Shinawatra University, utilizes a qualitative case study approach, drawing on in-depth interviews with three distinct groups: international tourists visiting Thailand, managers of Thai inbound tour companies, and department heads of tourism education programmes at Thai universities.
This summary provides a detailed overview of Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s dissertation, drawing on the excerpts provided. In the interest of clarity, this summary is organised according to the structure of the dissertation itself:
Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter establishes the foundation for the dissertation, providing the background and rationale for the study.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam stresses the growing importance of language in global business, particularly in the tourism industry.
He argues that language plays a crucial role in shaping the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry, which is a significant contributor to Thailand's economy.
The chapter introduces the central research questions guiding the study:
What language roles affect competitiveness in the Thai tourism industry? How?
What is the most important language role in Thai tourism industry competitiveness?
How might Thai tourism industry product suppliers and marketers establish and maintain competitiveness to help make Thailand a preferred tourist destination for international tourists, using language roles?
Two hypotheses emerge from these research questions:
There is a significant relationship between demographic factors and language roles in Thai tourism industry competitiveness.
There is a significant relationship between organisational factors and the language roles that Thai tourism industry product suppliers and marketers use to establish and maintain competitiveness to help make Thailand a preferred tourist destination for international tourists.
The chapter concludes by outlining the scope of the research, defining key terms, and emphasising the potential contributions of the study to both theory and practice.
Chapter 2: Literature Review (I) - Language
This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the literature on language and its relevance to management, particularly within the context of the tourism industry.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam begins by defining language, exploring its various elements, types, and forms of address.
He highlights the importance of understanding Thai culture and language, acknowledging the impact of culture on customer satisfaction.
The chapter then examines key concepts related to language and communication within organisations, including:
Language competence
Roles of language in motivation
Language demand
Roles of language in internal and external communication○
Roles of language and tourism organisational management
Chapter 3: Literature Review (II) - Tourism
This chapter shifts focus to provide a detailed review of the literature on tourism, with a particular emphasis on the Thai tourism industry.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam explores the evolution of tourism in Thailand, tracing its growth and development over time.
He examines the role of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in promoting tourism and enhancing the country's competitiveness as a tourist destination.
The chapter provides an overview of different types of tourism in Thailand, including medical tourism, sex tourism, and ecotourism.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam discusses the concept of sustainable tourism, stressing the importance of balancing economic benefits with environmental protection and cultural preservation.
The chapter concludes with an examination of key factors influencing the Thai tourism industry:
Political instability and military coups
Economic fluctuations
Natural disasters
Competition from other tourist destinations
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam stresses the importance of understanding the demand for Thai tourism and identifies strategies for attracting and satisfying international tourists. He also highlights the significance of tourism education in preparing a skilled workforce for the tourism industry.
Chapter 4: Research Methodology
This chapter outlines the research methodology employed in the study, providing a rationale for the chosen approach.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam explains his decision to use a qualitative case study approach, arguing that it is best suited for exploring the complex and multifaceted phenomenon of language roles in tourism industry competitiveness. He emphasises that this approach allows for an in-depth understanding of the perspectives and experiences of those directly involved in the Thai tourism industry.
The chapter details the research process, including:
Pilot study design and implementation
Participant selection and recruitment (using purposeful sampling and snowball techniques)
Data collection procedures (using semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted in English and Thai)
Data analysis techniques (employing thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes)
Chapter 5: Background Information for the Study
This chapter delves into the background information of the three groups of interviewees who participated in the study: international tourists, inbound tour company managers, and tourism education department heads.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam provides detailed profiles of each group, including demographic information, such as age, gender, nationality, occupation, and years of experience in the tourism industry or education.
He also summarises key findings from the interviews with each group, highlighting their perspectives on:
The overall state of the Thai Tourism industry
The role of language in their experiences as tourists, tourism professionals, or educators
Their perceptions of Thailand's competitiveness as a tourist destination
Chapter 6: Data Analysis
This chapter presents the findings from the data analysis, focusing on the three research questions.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam uses thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns related to language roles in Thai tourism industry competitiveness. He organises his findings according to seven key themes:
Language competency
Motivation
Customer satisfaction
Demand
Culture
Internal communication
External communication
Organisational management
He then connects his findings to the two hypotheses, concluding that:
Hypothesis One (supported): There is a significant relationship between the demographic factors of tourists and tourism professionals and their views on the role of language in Thai tourism industry competitiveness.
Hypothesis Two (supported): There is a significant relationship between organisational factors, such as the language policies and practices of tourism businesses and educational institutions, and the perceived role of language in shaping Thai tourism industry competitiveness.
He concludes that language plays a vital role in shaping the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry, particularly in facilitating communication, enhancing customer satisfaction, and bridging cultural differences.
Chapter 7: Conclusion, Discussion, Implications, and Recommendations
The final chapter summarises the key findings of the study, discusses their implications, and offers recommendations for stakeholders in the Thai tourism industry.
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam reiterates the significance of language as a critical factor in Thai tourism industry competitiveness. He underscores the importance of language in:
Facilitating effective communication between tourism professionals and international tourists
Enhancing customer satisfaction by providing tourists with clear and accurate information and services
Bridging cultural gaps by fostering understanding and respect between different cultural groups
The chapter concludes by offering recommendations for the government, organisations, individuals, and future research, advocating for:
Increased investment in language education and training for tourism professionals
The development of language policies and strategies that support the use of multiple languages in the tourism industry
The promotion of cultural awareness and sensitivity among tourism stakeholders
Further research on the role of language in tourism industry competitiveness
Key Findings and Contributions of the Dissertation
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s dissertation makes several notable contributions to the field of tourism management and language studies:
Highlighting the crucial role of language in Thai tourism industry competitiveness: The study provides empirical evidence to support the assertion that language is not merely a tool for communication but a significant factor that influences the success and sustainability of the Thai tourism industry.
Identifying the multifaceted roles of language in the tourism industry: Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s research goes beyond simply recognising the importance of language proficiency. It delves into the various ways in which language shapes the experiences of tourists and tourism professionals, including its influence on motivation, customer satisfaction, cultural understanding, and organisational management.
Offering practical recommendations for stakeholders: The dissertation provides actionable insights for policymakers, tourism businesses, educational institutions, and individual tourism professionals, outlining strategies for enhancing the role of language in Thai tourism.
Limitations
The excerpts from Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam’s dissertation do not discuss the limitations of the study. As with any research project, it's important to acknowledge potential limitations, such as:
Limited generalisability: The study focuses specifically on the Thai tourism industry. While the findings may offer insights relevant to other contexts, it is essential to consider the unique cultural and linguistic landscape of Thailand.
Qualitative approach: The qualitative nature of the study, while allowing for in-depth exploration, may limit the generalisability of the findings to larger populations.
Concluding Thoughts
Dr. Thavorn Thitthongkam's PhD dissertation provides a valuable contribution to understanding the complex relationship between language and tourism. By illuminating the multifaceted roles of language in the Thai tourism
industry, the study underscores the need for stakeholders to recognise and invest in language as a crucial factor for success in an increasingly globalised marketplace.
