TYPES OF ENGLISH PROGRAMS WITH FOREIGN TEACHERS
In primary and secondary schools, a variety of English programs are offered in which
foreign teachers are involved. The basic and supplementary programs are the most
common in Thai schools. In these programs, English language lessons and sometimes
other subjects are taught by foreign teachers for between one and three hours per week
per class. These lessons supplement or are supplemented by instruction in content areas
in the Thai language.
Students spend more time with native speakers in immersion programs where they see a
foreign teacher at least once every day. There are two types of immersion programs:
English Programs (EP) and MLP. EP students receive English-language only instruction
in courses such as science and maths, and other subjects not related to Thai language
and identity. Thai teachers may assist with translation or tutoring in EPs. MLP students
receive a similar offering of courses but meet with English native speakers less
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frequently than EP students. MLP students learn subjects like maths and science in
English, but also learn other foreign languages like Chinese and Khmer.