Are you looking to enhance your abilities in listening, speaking, reading, or writing Thai? Enrolling in a Thai language course can be extremely beneficial. Nevertheless, it is important to note that not all Thai language courses are created equal. To ensure you choose the ideal course, there are several factors to be mindful of. Primarily, remember that the finest Thai language courses can be found in Thailand.
With a complete cultural and linguistic immersion, you have a solid foundation for success in your endeavor to learn the Thai language. The essential aspect of attaining proficiency in any language is to engage with native speakers, making it highly logical to pursue Thai language learning in Thailand. Additionally, it is worth noting that the country is widely acclaimed for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. During your free time, you can embark on adventures and delight in the captivating landscapes.
By learning Thai in Thailand, you can discover a multitude of opportunities. After grasping the fundamentals, you will be able to effectively interact with locals, enhance your comprehension of Thai culture, and form connections with fellow Thai speakers. Furthermore, you can unlock novel job prospects that necessitate proficiency in Thai as a prerequisite.
In case you are thinking of signing up for a Thai language course in Thailand, we present the main factors you should consider when choosing a Thai language course in Thailand- and recommend some excellent courses as well!
Quality of School
If you want to assess the quality of your Thai language school, consider the diversity of languages they have taught to both locals and foreigners. This will show their ability to adapt to various learning styles and cater to different types of students.
A wide range of course options is another factor that signifies quality. A top-notch school will have a variety of courses available, catering to both beginners and those who are more advanced. Moreover, reputable schools will also offer courses designed for specific purposes, such as leisurely learning or test preparation. If you have a particular goal in mind for learning Thai, it is important to select a school that provides courses specifically tailored to meet your needs. This guarantees that you will make the most of your time and investment in terms of learning outcomes.
Teaching Style
It has been proven through research that the most effective method for learning a new language is to combine live instruction with active learning. It is important to find a school that prioritizes collaboration and participation within the classroom, as these approaches result in the highest level of learning. By choosing a school that incorporates active learning into its courses, you will enhance your ability to use Thai in real-life situations. Do not settle for anything less, as compromising your learning is not worthwhile.
Course Structure
While the structure of a course may naturally differ among institutions and course content, it is crucial to consider certain tips and techniques when assessing the integrity of its structure. A properly organized course facilitates effective learning, therefore it is important not to disregard this factor.
For courses that are specific to a particular test
Some tests assess all language applications (speaking, listening, writing, and reading), while others focus on a specific application. It is essential to choose the appropriate course based on your needs, as every test varies. If you wish to enhance your writing abilities, opt for a course that highlights writing skills in its curriculum. However, if you aim to improve all language applications, it is advisable to select a course with a more even distribution of emphasis. A reputable school will provide courses tailored to specific tests and skills.
General Thai Courses are available.
Make sure to select the right format for general Thai courses that suits your needs. Consider the number of instruction hours per week and the duration of the course. If you are learning Thai for enjoyment, it is not necessary to commit to 40 hours of instruction for 50 weeks, unless you find that enjoyable. Instead, opt for a more relaxed format that allows you to explore learning Thai and then decide later whether you want to enroll in a more intensive program. Choosing a pace that accommodates your schedule and interests will increase your chances of success.
Individual Classes compared to Group Classes
Do you have a preference for learning in a group or receiving one-on-one instruction? Top-quality schools generally provide both small group and private classes, allowing you to select the option that aligns with your preferred learning style. Collaborative learning occurs in small group sizes, while private classes are more customized. There isn’t a superior choice; it solely depends on personal preference – what suits you best.
It is important to note that schools with big class sizes should be approached with caution. Constructive learning and collaboration are more likely to occur in smaller groups, whereas larger classes tend to provide less individual feedback. In Thailand, it is advisable to seek out schools that explicitly promote “small groups”, and if uncertain about the average class size, do not hesitate to inquire.
Desired Application of Knowledge
Don’t compromise on your Thai language learning journey – find a course that aligns perfectly with your specific goals and reasons for learning.
Location Within Thailand
There are Thai learners who currently reside in Thailand and desire to attend a school near their homes. On the other hand, individuals who travel from overseas seek to enrol in a school that is conveniently located near tourist attractions and offers recreational activities. The finest Thai schools have various branches spread throughout the country, firmly rooted in Thailand.
Having considered the quality of the school, teaching style, course structure, content, and location in Thailand, you are now equipped to confidently choose the Thai language course that suits you best.
After narrowing your options for a course, it is important to personally visit the school(s) that offer the desired course. Take a look at the facilities, the surrounding area, and the overall atmosphere to determine if it aligns with your preferences. Additionally, try to engage with the staff members to gain insights about the institution. If an in-person visit is not possible, refer to online reviews from previous students. Specifically, seek out reviews regarding the course you are considering to make an informed decision.
When searching for a Thai language course, it is important to consider the presence of free demonstration classes and assessments. Reputable schools will provide trial classes for free, allowing you to have a better understanding of what you will be enrolling in. This gives you the opportunity to evaluate the class environment, teaching style, pacing, student-teacher interaction, and more. Additionally, many schools offer free assessments before enrollment, where you can meet with a Thai language expert to evaluate your current language proficiency. Based on the assessment, they will recommend a course that suits your level of difficulty, ensuring you get your money’s worth. We highly recommend taking advantage of these complimentary opportunities, as they will greatly assist you in making an informed decision. It is important to be cautious of schools that are not transparent about their teaching methods and course content.
FAQs About Learning Thai in Thailand
Would you consider Thai to be an easy language?
Can Thai be considered easy? The answer is subjective and depends on one’s definition of “easy” and their perspective. Personally, I find Thai to be easier compared to Mandarin, which I studied before. This is due to the more lenient grammar rules in spoken Thai and the simpler and less extensive Thai alphabet, unlike the complex maze of Chinese characters.
What is the duration required to learn the Thai language?
The answer to this question may vary depending on the Thai language school you attend, whether it is located in Bangkok or elsewhere. However, in my opinion, with consistent practice and living in Thailand, it is possible to achieve functional fluency within 1-2 years. It is important to note that by functional fluency, I mean being able to communicate effectively in everyday situations without relying on English. It may not encompass advanced skills such as writing novels or giving media interviews. The primary objective is to attain sufficient proficiency to navigate daily life in Thai.
What are some places to learn the Thai language?
If possible, I typically suggest that individuals study the Thai language in Thailand, but remote learning is also an option. There are numerous applications available, in addition to traditional methods like the Rosetta Stone software. The specific location within Thailand for studying doesn’t make a difference. Despite the various dialects spoken by locals across the country, you will always be taught the standard Thai language.
What is the top location for learning Thai?
In a broader sense, I believe it is crucial to select a school near your residence and with a class schedule that does not completely consume your life. The more authentic your immersion in learning Thai is, the more advantageous it will be!
What is the working system of the Thai alphabet?
I came across an article that discussed how the Thai script is not classified as an alphabet in a technical sense. I cannot recall its official characterization, but it is not a matter of concern to me. Similar to English and many other languages, Thai comprises both vowels and consonants, though it boasts a greater quantity and complexity compared to Western languages. In my opinion, once one becomes accustomed to the peculiar form and occasional repetition of the Thai alphabet, it becomes relatively easy.
Popular Language Schools in Thailand
No matter if you choose to study Thai in Thailand or in a remote area of the country, there are various language schools that are well-liked across the entire Kingdom.
- ProLanguage (locations in Bangkok, Chiang May, and Pattaya)
- Duke (located in Nana/Asok, Bangkok)
- TSL: Thai as a Second Language (Chiang Mai)
- Patong Language School (Phuket)
Other FAQs About Studying Thai in Thailand
What is the price of studying Thai in Thailand?
Studying Thai in Thailand is comparatively affordable in comparison to language courses offered in other countries. During the period between March 2017 and March 2018, my year-long course cost me around 30,000 Baht (~$1,000). It is important to mention that studying at a university or opting for private lessons, as opposed to group lessons at a Thai language school, may entail a higher cost, sometimes significantly so.
Would it be difficult to learn Thai?
In certain aspects, Thai is not a challenging language. The grammar is straightforward, and once you overcome the initial difficulty of the Thai alphabet, it becomes quite effortless and intuitive. Conversely, Thai poses a complication for non-Asian learners due to its tonal nature, which tends to be a rather perplexing concept to comprehend.
What is the reason for the absence of spaces in Thai?
In Thailand, spaces are present, but they are not used to separate words. Instead, paragraphs or sentences in Thai text are separated by spaces. Native Thai speakers have the ability to differentiate the starting and ending points of words without the need for spaces. Hence, there is no requirement to include spaces between words in written Thai materials.
