Guidelines for Implementing Foreign Language Learning Management Policy of Schools under the Pathum Thani Secondary Educational Service Area Office

Abstract

The research has 2 objectives: 1) to examine the current situation of implementing foreign language learning management policies in schools and 2) to conduct a semi-structured focus group interview with education experts to develop strategies for implementing foreign language learning management policies in schools. This research employs a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative research was conducted through a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire survey completed by 176 education personnel from 22 schools in Pathum Thani province. The data were analyzed using basic statistics, including frequency, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Qualitative research was conducted through a semi-structured focus group interview with 6 education experts.

There are two research findings. First, three areas needed further improvement include i) economic, social, and political conditions ( = 4.19, S.D. = 0.77), ii) resource policy considerations ( = 4.22, S.D. = 0.78) and iii) communication between organizations and student activity coordination ( = 4.24, S.D. = 0.76). Second, recommendations bridging the gap between policy and practice suggested by the 6 experts include establishing clear written learning standards and assessment criteria, effectively managing budget for teaching, embedding modern foreign language learning activities in curriculum, and promoting an academic collaboration among schools, public agencies and private sectors needing workers fluent in foreign languages. In conclusion, the success of implementing foreign language learning management policies in schools depends on the collaborative efforts of all parties involved who want to see their students integrate language learning into their everyday life and apply it to jobs in the future.