Page 135 - The lraternational Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand.indd

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

as well as stay updated on the latest research on language learning and acquisition
(Hausberg, 2013).

Second, CPD can help teachers adapt to changes in the educational landscape
(Moss Kanter, 2013). In a VUCA world, it is common for unexpected changes to occur,
and teachers must be prepared to adapt to these changes in order to remain effective.
CPD can provide teachers with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate new

challenges and remain flexible and adaptable in their teaching.
Third, CPD can help teachers develop new skills and knowledge in areas that

are relevant to their teaching (Hausberg, 2013). For example, EFL teachers may want
to improve their knowledge of a particular language or culture or develop expertise
in a specific teaching method or approach (Moss Kanter, 2013). CPD can provide

teachers with the opportunity to pursue these interests and become more proficient in
their field.

It is believed that CPD is a significant factor in teachers’ creativity. Creative EFL
teachers produce effective EFL instructions because there is a direct correlation between
teachers’ CPD and their creativity. Thus, EFL teachers can foster their creativity in these
VUCA situations by familiarizing themselves with some professional development

activities, such as reading journals, taking training courses, or attending educational
seminars, workshops, and conferences (Mohammadifar & Tabatabaee-Yazdi, 2021).
CPD can also involve sharing best teaching ideas, and viewpoints with a focus on
helping teachers improve their teaching techniques.

Conclusion

We have been living in turbulent and rapidly changing environments for a long
time, and the COVID-19 pandemic, an extreme case of VUCA, disrupts our lives at an
increasing pace. Because of these conditions, there is a constant need for learning and
creativity, and those who are well prepared for all disruptions or difficulties will

benefit.

Education in this era should focus on active learning, which encourages students
to complete tasks through collaborative learning. Students need to develop themselves
to reach their full potential until they obtain significant 21 century skills. For language
st
teachers, CPD is crucial as it is an ongoing process that enhances teachers’ skills and
competencies. Although teaching English in this era of unprecedented technological

advancement, rising demand for English speakers, and limited resources presents a
number of challenges, we can overcome them by being resourceful, adaptable, resilient,
and persistent.

Namthip Anantsupamongkul
Savika Varaporn 127