Formal Education for Non-Thai or Undocumented Persons in Thailand amidst the Challenges of Nationalism and Transnationalism: A Case Study of Wat Sirimongkhol School, Samut Sakhon Province

Abstract

     This research aimed to study the dual approach of nationalism and transnationalism in the formal education system for non-Thai or undocumented persons in Wat Sirimongkhol School, Samut Sakhon province. The system has been used as a tool to assimilate the role of the race and ethnicity. A qualitative approach was employed. The results demonstrated that there was some cultural assimilation among alien students studying at Wat Sirimongkhol School. However, the conscious assimilation of alien students was still hindered by the short period of the process as well as by transnationalism. Further, the endeavors to instruct on nationalism and annexation were conversely related to the occurrence of other sentiments present at the same time. Consequently, group combination and racial assimilation (particularly the identification of the Thai nationality) were not apparent in the case study.