THAI STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF FOREIGN ENGLISH TEACHERS: IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION POLICY

This study aimed to investigate Thai students' perceptions of foreign English teachers (FETs) in Thailand, focusing on their teaching effectiveness, cultural competence, and English language proficiency. A mixed methods design was employed, involving surveys and open-ended questions with a sample of 12 second-year and third-year high school students. The results revealed that Thai students generally perceive foreign English teachers positively, valuing their cultural sensitivity, effective communication, and clear pronunciation. However, challenges such as communication barriers, cultural differences, and pedagogical issues were identified. Students also reported numerous benefits, including exposure to diverse cultures, improved language proficiency, and enhanced confidence. Based on these findings, recommendations for public education policies include enhancing teacher training, supporting foreign English teachers, adapting curricula, improving assessment, and fostering collaboration. Future research should explore the long-term impact of foreign English teachers and consider comparative and qualitative studies to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing student perceptions and learning outcomes.