Perceived needPerception of a particular need for
innovation is an influential factor in the success
of any innovation. Fullan describes the need
for change as being either internal or external,
or a combination of both of these factors.
External need for change can come from such
influences as economic, social and political
change. In applying this principle to Thailand
for example, the consequences of the far
reaching changes in the economy following
the 1997 economic downturn created
imperatives for change to the education
system. Many of the causes of the economic
problems which beset the nation were
external. At the same time it is possible to
state that internal factors are also pushing
educational change in the nation. People are
not satisfied with the current situation in regard
to the school curriculum (Fullan, 1992: 69).
In Thailand educators are seeking new ways
to introduce innovative language teaching
methods into the school system. The
introduction of a radical change in the
language teaching provides an example of an
internal need for change.