An Analysis of Thai Language Learning Strategies Used by Non-Native. Speakers in Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

     This study aimed to investigate the Thai language learning strategies used by non-native speakers in Chiang Rai Province. The population were sixty participants consisting of thirty Thai language learners from Easy Study School, Chiang Rai and the 1st year Chinese students from Thai Language Program at Chiang Rai Rajabhat University. The instruments were classroom observations and questionnaire. The data were analyzed by Strategy Inventory of Language Learning (SILL), Oxford (1990 : 17).

     The SILL results showed that the overall use of Thai language learning strategies used by non-native speakers found that the Chinese students reported to use most in direct strategies which is Memory strategies was at (63.33%) and the private classroom students reported to use most in indirect strategies which is Affective strategies was at (63.33%). The results from classroom observation found that The Chinese students’ classroom reported to use most in Compensation Strategies and used less in Memory Strategies. On the other hand, the Private classroom students reported using most in Cognitive Strategies and using less in Affective Strategies. The teacher was able to apply the results to help students design their Thai language learning and also the teacher should have background knowledge in teaching and learning strategies for creating the materials to further develop the learning of students. The teacher and the students should increase their awareness of understanding and using all learning strategies with appropriate instruction and training for Thai language learning as a foreign language.