ANALYSIS OF BUDDHIST CONTENT IN THAI FROM THAI LANGUAGE TEXTBOOKS FOR CHINESE LEARNERS OF THAI AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Abstract

This study aims to analyze Buddhist-related content in Thai-language textbooks for Chinese learners of Thai as a foreign language, focusing on the examination and categorization of Buddhist content in textbooks developed in China. The research sample consisted of 13 Thai language textbooks for Chinese learners. The research instrument was a content analysis framework constructed by the researcher based on principles of content analysis. Data were collected through systematic reading, analysis, and categorization of the content, and descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis. The findings indicate that Buddhist content in Thai language textbooks for Chinese learners can be classified into seven aspects: 1) Important temples and Buddha images in Bangkok, 2) Important Buddhist days, 3) Buddhist activities, 4) The history of Thai Buddhism, 5) Buddhism and Thai literature, 6) Buddhist teachings and beliefs, and 7) The administration of the Buddhist monastic order in Thai society. These contents indicate that Buddhism is presented in the textbooks as a religion closely connected with Thai history, culture, society, and ways of life. The knowledge derived from this study suggests that Buddhism plays an important cultural role in Thai language textbooks, supporting Chinese learners’ understanding of Thai culture through language learning. The findings also indicate that Buddhist content in Thai language textbooks is associated with learners’ ability to relate language learning to social and cultural contexts. The results of this study may serve as a basis for the development and improvement of Thai language textbooks for foreign learners in a balanced manner and in accordance with learning contexts.