Teaching Critical English Reading for Thai Learners in the 21st Century
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Abstract
This article proposes strategic approaches for fostering critical reading skills in English among Thai learners within a global landscape saturated by an overwhelming volume of information. Given the unprecedented scale of contemporary data, which encompasses a dense mix of factual evidence and distorted or misleading content, the ability to critically evaluate text has become a prerequisite for effective learning and informed decision making. However, many Thai students struggle to achieve this depth of analysis due to a persistent reliance on literal translation and a traditional educational emphasis on basic comprehension over complex cognitive engagement. The present work examines the conceptual foundations of critical reading and its essential link to higher order thinking skills while providing practical frameworks for instruction. The discussion includes specific classroom activities and the integration of digital tools such as artificial intelligence to enhance the learning process. Furthermore, the article contends that successful implementation is contingent upon providing students with sufficient time for reflection, fostering a psychologically safe environment, and adopting the role of an empathetic facilitator rather than a traditional disseminator of knowledge. This is particularly vital in the Thai educational context, where cultural preferences for non-confrontational social harmony and a respect for hierarchical authority can often inhibit students from questioning texts or expressing dissenting opinions. By adopting these methods, educators can help transition students from passive consumers of information into the discerning evaluators required for modern citizenship.
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