Page 134 - The lraternational Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand.indd

The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand
Volume XV-2023

smartphones and tablets or hosting synchronous activities live in a classroom is
sometimes a trouble for students with poor 4G or 5G connection. To ensure that the
technology-assisted approach does not disadvantage students, it is recommended that
EFL teachers take into account these factors of their students and use a variety of
digital tools and simulation to meet the diverse needs of their students.

Cultural immersion

Exposing students to authentic English-language materials, such as songs,
movies, and news articles, can help them develop cultural knowledge and can improve
their language skills through exposure to authentic language (Krashen, 1982). Language
teachers can support cultural immersion through technological applications. For

example, they turn an English language class into cultural settings when using
multiplayer online games in class. This stimulates learning environments that allows
the real world to merge with the digital world.

In addition to incorporating a variety of teaching methods and approaches, it
is also important for teachers to be flexible and adaptable in their lesson planning and

delivery (Moss Kanter, 2013). In a VUCA world, it is common for unexpected events
or changes to occur, and teachers must be prepared to adjust their plans as needed
(Hausberg, 2013). This can involve being open to feedback from students and
incorporating their needs and interests into lesson plans, as well as being willing to try

new teaching methods and approaches when they may be needed (Moss Kanter, 2013).

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Thai EFL Teachers

Continuing professional development CPD is defined as “ongoing learning
programs and approaches through which teachers advance their teaching skills to
ensure them to remain competent.” (Speck & Knipe, 2005, cited in Tabatabaee-Yazdi

et al, 2018, p.2). As a form of lifelong learning, CPD offers teachers the chance to learn
new things, improve skills, and refresh their existing knowledge. By participating in
CPD activities, teachers can continually ‘upskill’ or ‘reskill’, and their academic and
practical qualifications will not become outdated or obsolete.

There are several reasons why CPD is important for Thai EFL teachers in a

VUCA world. First, CPD can help teachers stay current with the latest research and
best practices in language teaching (Hausberg, 2013). With the rapid pace of change in
the modern world, it is important for teachers to be aware of new developments
and techniques in their field in order to provide the best possible education for their
students. CPD can help teachers learn about new teaching methods and approaches,

126 Teaching English in a VUCA World