STEM Learning in Thailand & How it Differs from the US
Written by Tana Manitayasokul
Think STEM learning in Thailand and US is largely the same? You may be surprised then to find out just how different both countries are in their approaches to preparing students for a STEM career.
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STEM Learning Practices: America vs. Thailand
There are many vast differences and approaches to STEM learning that vary by country. Even though the goal is the same, the method by which is localized to maximize the amount of learning gauged by STEM students.
The goal of STEM is to give students a heightened ability to critically think, and to increase scientific literacy in the hopes of creating the next generation of innovators.
From this, it can be inferred that there is no strict method to teaching STEM as long as the main point has been meted out. Thus, there are many unique ways to teach and learn the practice.
The US as Founders of STEM Education
The United States is agreed upon as the country that founded STEM learning in 2001. As of 2017, the US is also statistically dependent on STEM workers for its future growth.
This is, of course, why the US has set the norms for STEM learning in the educational world.
As the founder of STEM learning, the United States has influenced the practice, emphasizing technology as it is becoming increasingly prevalent in the current day and age. Similarly, the US has integrated technology with other disciplines such as science, engineering, and mathematics, relating one to the others.
Thailand as Pioneers of STEM Education
Thailand, however, teaches STEM in a far different manner. While Thailand still follows the basic practice, their STEM education is a lot more individualistic.
For example, the different disciplines in STEM rarely intertwine or collaborate with each other when experienced STEM learning in Thailand–the quintessential opposite of the United States' approach.
This is likely attributed to the country being a prosperous tourist location. Thereby its educational system focuses more of its resources on the tourism and entertainment industry.
Does Thailand focus on a specific STEM discipline?
The simple, straight answer is, yes.
Thai STEM learning focuses on science (the “S” in “STEM”). This is due to Thailand's prominence in the agricultural sector. The country consistently ranks in the top 3 for global rice exporters worldwide. Different countries tend to focus on different STEM disciplines depending on the needs of their domestic economy.
Although science is the main focus, technology doesn't fall far behind it. In fact, the two usually go hand in hand.
In Thailand, for example, science is used to find innovative ways to engineer and modify crops more efficiently, whereas technology is used for testing and to predict outcomes.
How can I become a STEM student in Thailand?
Becoming a STEM student in Thailand is quite simple as long as you live there–even if temporary.
Simply apply for a Thai STEM learning course or school with a student visa, and you should be cleared to apply for most schools unless special requirements are necessary.
STEM learning courses in Thailand can be a fun, informative and richly cultural experience.
We’d recommend applying for an international school, as not only will you meet students of diverse backgrounds, but you will also be exposed to different cultures. Additionally, most international schools in Thailand tend to have connections to a couple universities and courses like Inspirit AI, making them a great opportunity for the future.
However, if you would like to enter a Thai school or โรงเรียนไทย then feel free to apply. They provide many of the same course benefits, but keep in mind that you will most likely need a certain level of proficiency in the Thai language!
Ready to further your high school artificial intelligence education? Apply to the next Inspirit AI program today!
Resources used:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/STEM-education
https://knoema.com/atlas/topics/Agriculture/Trade-Export-Quantity/Rice-exports-quantity/
