The Humanities in the 21st Century: Content Analysis and Directions in the Area Studies Curricula in Thai Higher Education

Abstract

This study aims to explore the integration of Humanities into the Area Studies curricula in Thailand. The research objectives are twofold: i) to analyze the content of academic sub-disciplines in Humanities in the curricula; and ii) to analyze the future directions of Humanities disciplines in the 21st century. To lend insights into the above issues, the researchers followed three steps: first, survey all undergraduate Area Studies curricula in Thailand; second, analyze the content within the academic sub-disciplines by investigating details of courses offered in the curricula; and last, determine the future direction of the 21st century Area Studies curricula.

Findings revealed that five academic sub-disciplines were categorized under Humanities, namely, philosophy and religion, languages, history, literature and art. Twenty-one area studies curricula were offered at the undergraduate level in Thailand. In terms of content, courses in language and history had a greater proportion, and courses in literature had a lesser proportion when compared to other sub-disciplines. Humanities disciplines and their content are almost in the same direction when comparing the old with the new curricula. The future directions of Humanities disciplines should integrate learning approaches in the 21st century, including critical thinking skills, creative thinking skills, effective communication skills and integrated learning skills.