Background
English in Education Systems
The British Council’s work in English for Education Systems (EES) aims for transformational change in English language policy and practice. We believe that better teaching and learning of English increases academic and career opportunities and enables people to participate actively in a global society. Our research and innovation with UK and overseas partners provide evidence of 'what works' in English language teaching and learning and contribute to the development of English language teaching and learning worldwide. We support language teaching and learning in a multilingual world, helping to ensure inclusive and equitable quality language education in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 4.
As of 2021, our EES programmatic framework is thematically organised into three key impact areas:
- ELT in Education,
- English and Empowerment
- English Connects (digital)
Underpinning these priorities is our approach harnessing UK expertise in teacher education, education technologies and inclusive pedagogies and research, insight, and innovation. We seek to document and share learning gained from practical experience. Our role in global English means that advancing thought and positioning the UK as leaders in English language education are at the heart of our mission.
About the research
Teachers are central to responding to a changing world as they are responsible for enabling children and young people to live with and tackle the global challenges of both today and tomorrow. Therefore, the education of such teachers is also of upmost importance (Darling-Hammond, 2017), as is high quality research to inform practice (Tatto, 2021). This applies equally to English language Initial English teacher training in Thailand. However, by working closely with the ministries, teachers and teacher educators at both school level and HE level, it has become apparent that there are some issues surrounding the quality of teachers, the connection between their theoretical understanding and practical application, and the type of support system available for student teachers before entering into the in-service teaching system.
In 2022, British Council and King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) conducted international collaborative research in this area in order to have a better understanding of the “as-is" situation of Initial English language teacher development in Thailand. The research findings are expected to inform recommendations for future Initial English teacher education development activities, including potential interventions that could be made by HEIs and other relevant institutions.