Identity Formation of a Filipino Transwoman EFL Teacher in Thailand
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Abstract
As a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community, Thailand has become a niche for EFL teachers from around the world, particularly Filipino transwomen. Despite gender discrimination in academia and being non-native English educators, they hold pivotal roles in connecting Thai students to the inner circle. This case study delves into the perceived and negotiated teacher and gender identities of a Filipino transwoman EFL teacher in Thailand, examining how these identities impact her teaching practices. Through a semi-structured interview, the participant’s experiences in a primary school were meticulously explored. Her narratives were captured through recordings and analyzed using Stake’s (1995) four-phase analysis framework: description, categorical aggregation, establishing patterns, and naturalistic generalizations. Results revealed predominantly positive perceived identities, such as possessing a neutral accent, versatility, and relatability, significantly influencing her EFL teaching practices. However, challenges included the absence of ELT credentials due to Thailand's lenient recruitment practices. The participant negotiated her gender identity as a woman in interactions with students and colleagues, highlighting the complex intersection of gender and professional roles. Future research should include comparative studies with Thai transwomen teachers and explore the impact of English proficiency and nationality on identity formation, offering valuable insights into fostering inclusivity in Thailand's EFL teaching community.
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