Public schools in the North Country have been closing one-by-one for decades. It’s a heartbreaking event for small towns.
But dwindling populations and rising costs have forced districts to consolidate and bus their kids long distances to bigger schools.
Incoming Governor Andrew Cuomo has indicated that he wants more districts to merge, and the state has already cut education funding.
The entire Newcomb school district has fewer than a hundred kids.
But as Brian Mann reports, the community is fighting for survival by trying to attract international students to fill its empty classrooms.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Thailand's NESDB warns about labour shortage
"Thailand's labour shortage is likely to continue over the next five years should the Education Ministry fail to improve vocational studies and increase the number of vocational graduates, says the government's planning agency."
Thai native already a graduate back home, now student in U.S.
She’s technically already finished with school back in Thailand, but Krissana Lao-Amornphunkul will be a student for several more months as she studies at Blue Earth Area High School.
The 18-year-old enrolled in the foreign exchange program for a chance to learn how to live in the United States and improve her English.
She is an only child at home, but since Richard and Margaret Sunderlin decided to host two students at once, she has a “sister,” from Hong Kong, while staying in the U.S.
Twelve exchange students in 10 years have called the Sunderlins’ house in Elmore their home, and it wasn’t even their idea to begin with.
“My daughter was trying to talk us into it,” Richard explains.
She succeeded, and the family became host to a boy from Venezuela. From that point, the Sunderlins were anxious to continue the experience.
“He was a fine young man,” Richard says. “He left a good taste in our mouth after he left.”
Since then, the couple has hosted children from Germany, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand, and this year welcomes a girl from Hong Kong, as well as Krissana.
Krissana was born and raised in Bangkok, the largest city in Thailand, where her parents are also from. Her family owns a business selling fish, primarily to hotels.
“I think my mom very proud,” Krissana explains about her parents’ thoughts on her leaving home. “She would tell her friend, ‘My daughter go to America.’”
Since she doesn’t yet have a job, Krissana uses her free time back home to go to the cinema with friends or go out to eat. And, of course, go shopping, something she’s been able to do a lot of since being in America.
“Mention shopping and they’ll drop whatever they’re doing,” Richard jokes about the two girls.
Krissana has noticed it’s more expensive to shop in the U.S. than in Thailand, but says one of her favorite things about being in Minnesota is there’s no tax on clothing.
She even decided to brave Black Friday crowds following Thanksgiving in order to experience the crazy shopping holiday found only in America.
But even with how much she likes to shop, Krissana has never had to become too familiar with sweaters, snow boots or winter coats, since the climate in Bangkok is not at all similar to that of Blue Earth.
“We’ll make sure she wears warm clothes,” Margaret says.
Before winter had even hit, Krissana says everyone was warning her how cold the weather would get, but since she’d never touched snow, she was already making plans for the day it came.
“I think if we have snow I will do snow angel,” she says.
Although she was visiting New York City during the first winter storm of the season, Krissana returned to Elmore to find the outdoors a very different color than when she left. And with chilly temperatures lingering, she’ll no doubt get a chance to make plenty of snow angels.
Between being a senior at Blue Earth Area High School and participating in extracurriculars, Krissana finds down time at home with the Sunderlins, helping cook supper, watching television and doing homework.
She says the most difficult part about being at school in America is understanding what people are saying, but the actual classes have their upside.
“They’re easier — except American history,” she laughs.
Krissana attended a Catholic school in Thailand, starting at 7:45 a.m. and sitting through seven class periods that mainly taught skills needed to become an administrative assistant.
She hasn’t made a lot of decisions about what comes after school, but says she’s considering something in business. And since she’d like to return for college, being a foreign exchange student is helping her adjust to living in the United States.
The 18-year-old enrolled in the foreign exchange program for a chance to learn how to live in the United States and improve her English.
She is an only child at home, but since Richard and Margaret Sunderlin decided to host two students at once, she has a “sister,” from Hong Kong, while staying in the U.S.
Twelve exchange students in 10 years have called the Sunderlins’ house in Elmore their home, and it wasn’t even their idea to begin with.
“My daughter was trying to talk us into it,” Richard explains.
She succeeded, and the family became host to a boy from Venezuela. From that point, the Sunderlins were anxious to continue the experience.
“He was a fine young man,” Richard says. “He left a good taste in our mouth after he left.”
Since then, the couple has hosted children from Germany, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand, and this year welcomes a girl from Hong Kong, as well as Krissana.
Krissana was born and raised in Bangkok, the largest city in Thailand, where her parents are also from. Her family owns a business selling fish, primarily to hotels.
“I think my mom very proud,” Krissana explains about her parents’ thoughts on her leaving home. “She would tell her friend, ‘My daughter go to America.’”
Since she doesn’t yet have a job, Krissana uses her free time back home to go to the cinema with friends or go out to eat. And, of course, go shopping, something she’s been able to do a lot of since being in America.
“Mention shopping and they’ll drop whatever they’re doing,” Richard jokes about the two girls.
Krissana has noticed it’s more expensive to shop in the U.S. than in Thailand, but says one of her favorite things about being in Minnesota is there’s no tax on clothing.
She even decided to brave Black Friday crowds following Thanksgiving in order to experience the crazy shopping holiday found only in America.
But even with how much she likes to shop, Krissana has never had to become too familiar with sweaters, snow boots or winter coats, since the climate in Bangkok is not at all similar to that of Blue Earth.
“We’ll make sure she wears warm clothes,” Margaret says.
Before winter had even hit, Krissana says everyone was warning her how cold the weather would get, but since she’d never touched snow, she was already making plans for the day it came.
“I think if we have snow I will do snow angel,” she says.
Although she was visiting New York City during the first winter storm of the season, Krissana returned to Elmore to find the outdoors a very different color than when she left. And with chilly temperatures lingering, she’ll no doubt get a chance to make plenty of snow angels.
Between being a senior at Blue Earth Area High School and participating in extracurriculars, Krissana finds down time at home with the Sunderlins, helping cook supper, watching television and doing homework.
She says the most difficult part about being at school in America is understanding what people are saying, but the actual classes have their upside.
“They’re easier — except American history,” she laughs.
Krissana attended a Catholic school in Thailand, starting at 7:45 a.m. and sitting through seven class periods that mainly taught skills needed to become an administrative assistant.
She hasn’t made a lot of decisions about what comes after school, but says she’s considering something in business. And since she’d like to return for college, being a foreign exchange student is helping her adjust to living in the United States.
Christopher Columbus 'was son of Polish king'
The explorer, Christopher Columbus, was the son of a Polish king living in exile in Madeira and hid his royal roots to protect his father, a new book claims.
Christopher Columbus arriving at one of the Caribbean islands on his voyage of discovery Photo: GETTY
A Portuguese historian believes he has solved the 500 year-old mystery of the adventurer's true identity after a thorough investigation of medieval documents and chronicles.
The origins of the man who discovered the Americas has long been a subject of speculation.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Southeast Asia’s largest Chinese school
Southeast Asia’s biggest Chinese language school, with more than 7,000 students aged from seven to 18, is right in the heart of Phnom Penh, near the Kandal market.
Thailand Thai Cooking School in Bangkok goes Intl.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) November 25, 2010 --
Press Release – December 01 2010
CSI announces it's tour of North America's western seacoast.
Thanaporn Boonloh B.B.A., a Thai national, takes her professional culinary art skills, Thai cuisine and fruit and vegetable carving skills, to the western seacoast of North America in the spring, summer and fall of 2011. (http://www.facebook.com/csicheflee)
Chef Lee, as everyone calls her, is owner, operator of Ma-Sa-Man’s Thai Cooking School BKK. , a Cooking Schools Intl. a CSI (http://www.cookingschoolsintl.com) affiliate and her third school set up in past 18 months. Chef Lee speaks Thai, Laos, Mandarin and English and has many, many, years of experience teaching foreigners of all nationalities, Thai & European cuisine and the art of fruit and vegetable carving using a “hands –on”, teaching methods that delivers “the craft”, “the technique”, “the secrets”, including culinary related Thai culture.
Venue Kitchens - CSI is currently researching Cooking Schools and kitchens on the western seaboard to host Thanaporn Boonloh B.B.A. as a GUEST CHEF, Thai Culinary Arts instructor, direct from Thailand. Booked venues will be granted a featured listing on our tour and world cooking school directories. (http://www.cookingschoolsintl.com/index_files/CsiTour2011.htm)
Tour students you may pre-register on the tour page the website so we can keep you informed of venue bookings. (http://www.cookingschoolsintl.com/index_files/CsiTour2011.htm)
Back –Link Exchange, with CSI, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 and is fully automated. When you submit your information the back-link is added, yes it’s immediate and as simple as 1, 2, 3. and includes a Thumbshot of your home page. Select the proper directory from our link directory page where you will obtain our back-link information or copy and paste this onto your link page http://www.cookingschoolsntl.com then visit CSI’s link directory page. It works like this 1. You need to add our back-link to your site, on a page that is Google rank 1 or above 2. Confirm the URL of your CSI back-link on our back-link exchange form, 3. Add your webmaster name and webmaster email and your company name and a 192 character description press submit, our software confirms the CSI back-link on your site and immediately posts your back-link. 1, 2, 3 it can’t be easier to exchange back-links!
(http://www.cookingschoolsintl.com/index_files/CsiTour2011.htm)
Thai Cooking School BKK is located in old Bangkok just 15 minute walk north from the famous Khao San road police station, and 10 minute walk north of Rambutri Rd. You can also arrive by river boat at pier 13 Phra Arthit then enjoy a 5 minute walk along the river then along the old battlement in the riverside park, a left and a right, and a right and in 20 minutes you are at the school.
CSI schools cater to all skill levels from our youngest student, a six year old, who was a bread cooking student, to worldly professional chefs, to airlines mechanized food preparation chefs, to those who love Thai food and also tourists who want a little bit of Thai culture to share back home. For those of you who desire to be artistic, our vegetable and fruit sculpture classes are for you.
Thailand school Schedule:
0900 – 1300 Daily Group Class
1200 bt to learn the five Thai dishes of the day, you do the prep, watch a dish be cooked, then cook your dish followed by your eating it while relaxing in the environment controlled (air conditioned) classroom. (Some schools charge 1000bt per dish. Most don’t teach “the craft”. Most are outdoors in the heat and smog!)
1400 –1800 Daily Private/Group Class
1200 bt to learn Vegetarian ( your option meatless or with fish or seafood) five Thai dishes of the day, top picks from past six months of private lesson student cuisine choices. The open group class is available whenever no Private/Group or Private class has been pre booked for the same time slot Any one may join a private/group class and does the cuisine choices of the class booker..
1400 - 1600. Private classes are private for the booker of the class. The booker and only the booker can allow additional class participants. This is priced according to your Mix N Match choices as you can pick what lessons you desire from all our class options Thai or western cuisines, fruit carving or bakery or from scratch (tofu, noodles, yogurt, roti).
1900 – 2200 Private Demonstration class of Thai or Western cuisines of your choosing and your consumption prepared in front of by your personal chef.
For all our details please visit our website http://www.cookingschoolsintl.com
Cooking Schools Intl. CSI
Ma-Sa-Man’s Thai Cooking School BKK
Thanaporn Boonloh B.B.A. Chef Lee
Cambodia - IEL International School ACADEMIC MANAGER
Introduction
IEL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL is the premium private school in Phnom Penh which provides General English Program, General Khmer Education from kindergarten to high school, Computer courses and other courses.
Job Description
We are expanding to a new campus and we are looking for the following positions:
Academic Manager (1 position)
Job Requirements
- At least bachelor degree in Education
- At least 2 year related experience
- 25 to 45 years old
- Good communication skills
- Able to work well with multinational environment
How to Apply
Interested applicants meeting the above requirements should submit their complete resume to Human Resource Department at chamroeun@iel.edu.kh,info@iel.edu.kh or our school address #BO3-BO11, Street 70, Sangkat Srahchork, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Tell: 016 807 803/023 42 78 78. The application form will not be returned. Only qualified applicants will be short-listed for interview.
Closing Date
December 30th, 2010
Contact Details
Name: IEL International School
Email: chamroeun@iel.edu.kh
Mobile Phone Number: 016 807 803
Telephone Number: 023 427 878
Website: www.iel.edu.kh
Address: #B03-B011, Street 70, Sangkat Shrash Chok, Khan Daun Penh
Note: Please kindly state that you are applying from http://www.cambodiajobpage.com
Twitter handy tool for foreign language teaching
Twitter, mostly famous for celebrity gossips, is being transformed into more purposeful social media tool for teaching foreign language at the University of South Carolina.
Professors Lara Ducate and Lara Lomicka Anderson are using Twitter as a learning aid to inject a little fun and spontaneity into foreign language instruction.
"One of my main goals of using it in my French class is to build community," said Anderson, an associate professor in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures who, with Ducate, an associate professor of German.
Anderson also has her students use Twitter to converse with native speakers at École des Ponts Paris Tech, a French university, to "keep the conversation going all the time."
Ducate used Twitter last fall in a teaching methods class to connect students with peers in foreign language teaching method courses at other universities.
"It was a way to let the students find someone who is also teaching their language and learning how to deal with their first semester as a teaching assistant. This gave them a chance to get a little bit more personal attention and also support from more than just me and their USC classmates," she said.
Other than Twitter, they've used discussion questions on Facebook, Skype long-distance chats, and e-mail. They've also worked with podcasting, blogs, and Wikis.
The appeal of Twitter is that it offers a good way for students to get to know one another, the two professors said.
Another advantage of Twitter for language instruction is that Tweets are short.
"It's easy for them to write one sentence quickly that doesn't require a lot from a proficiency standpoint. I think they're more willing to do something like that than having to write a longer blog entry or something that takes more time," said Ducate.
Anderson concluded by saying that, "It's short and it connects them with the outside world and class discussion by bringing in news items and other things they want to share. Students don't see [Tweets] as homework quite as much because they're fun and allow them to talk about themselves, which they love to do." (ANI)
Business English Vocabulary for ESL - Accounting Vocabulary 1
Visit http://BusinessEnglishPod.com to view and download more videos on Business English vocabulary for ESL.
This Business English video ESL lesson introduces English vocabulary related to finance, accounting and accountants.
Friday, November 26, 2010
British Vietnamese International School (BVIS) needs Admissions Manager
Company Profile
 Company profile: BVIS is a new international school due to open in South Saigon in August 2011. It will provide a quality international education in both the English and Vietnamese languages whilst committing to protecting and promoting Vietnamese language and culture. BVIS graduates will be destined for premier universities abroad, they will be independent learners possessing a world vision but with a Vietnamese perspective. BVIS is a superb 'greenfield' site initiative which will see unrivalled facilities, technologies and human resources come together to create a unique international school. Company Size: 100-499 |
Job Detail
Job title:
Admissions Manager
Job description:
The post-holder manages all admissions activities in school, ensuring the provision of high quality administrative support to applicants / students / parents and academic staff. The post-holder will work closely with the Principal and marketing team, as well as other key organizations in the community to maximize admissions success.
1. To manage all admissions activities for the school, including meeting with potential parents and completing the admissions process in a professional manner.
2. To develop plans and goals for the evaluation of prospective pupils data, and to implement strategies to increase the effective outreach to prospective pupils.
3. To create events developed with a purpose of driving applications (including receptions, forums, direct mail, etc.)
4. To liaise with school's Marketing Department over new leads; to develop materials to attract applicants and to participate in marketing events and activities when required.
5. To support Marketing Department in conducting research to identify additional ways to reach target groups and referral sources.
6. To work closely with the SIMS (Student Information Management System) Administrator regarding SIMS applications for reports of market analysis of enquiries; SIMS registration and admissions.
7. To coordinate with related departments in order to complete the admissions process professionally and successfully.
8. To fulfil any reasonable additional responsibilities as may be from time to time requested by the Principal.
1. To manage all admissions activities for the school, including meeting with potential parents and completing the admissions process in a professional manner.
2. To develop plans and goals for the evaluation of prospective pupils data, and to implement strategies to increase the effective outreach to prospective pupils.
3. To create events developed with a purpose of driving applications (including receptions, forums, direct mail, etc.)
4. To liaise with school's Marketing Department over new leads; to develop materials to attract applicants and to participate in marketing events and activities when required.
5. To support Marketing Department in conducting research to identify additional ways to reach target groups and referral sources.
6. To work closely with the SIMS (Student Information Management System) Administrator regarding SIMS applications for reports of market analysis of enquiries; SIMS registration and admissions.
7. To coordinate with related departments in order to complete the admissions process professionally and successfully.
8. To fulfil any reasonable additional responsibilities as may be from time to time requested by the Principal.
Job Requirement:
- Vietnamese
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, humanities or related field required. Master’s degree is an advantage.
- Experience in education consultancy or marketing/sales
- Able to manage own time and work load
- Proficiency with MS office and managing databases, spreadsheets
- Strong oral and written communication skills in Vietnamese and English
- Good inter-personal skills and self-confidence
- Engaging telephone manner
- Proactive, committed and possess common sense
- Must be able to keep information confidential
- Willing to work flexibly within a British style school
COMMENCEMENT: As soon as possible
WORKING TIME: 7:30 AM – 4:30PM; 5 days per week
CONTACT:Please send your application form to:
Email by click "apply" button below
Post: British Vietnamese International School, Vietnam
225 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien Ward, Dist. 2, Hochiminh City
The application form can be downloaded at: http://www.bvisvietnam.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92%3Arecruitment&catid=35%3Aabout-us&Itemid=2&lang=en
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: 5th December 2010
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, humanities or related field required. Master’s degree is an advantage.
- Experience in education consultancy or marketing/sales
- Able to manage own time and work load
- Proficiency with MS office and managing databases, spreadsheets
- Strong oral and written communication skills in Vietnamese and English
- Good inter-personal skills and self-confidence
- Engaging telephone manner
- Proactive, committed and possess common sense
- Must be able to keep information confidential
- Willing to work flexibly within a British style school
COMMENCEMENT: As soon as possible
WORKING TIME: 7:30 AM – 4:30PM; 5 days per week
CONTACT:Please send your application form to:
Email by click "apply" button below
Post: British Vietnamese International School, Vietnam
225 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien Ward, Dist. 2, Hochiminh City
The application form can be downloaded at: http://www.bvisvietnam.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92%3Arecruitment&catid=35%3Aabout-us&Itemid=2&lang=en
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: 5th December 2010
Preferred language for received applications:
English
Job level:
Manager
Job category:
Administrative/Clerical
Education/Training
Consulting
Education/Training
Consulting
Location:
Ho Chi Minh
Salary:
Competitive
Job Type:
Full-Time Permanent
A village school in the US Adirondacks goes global to survive
Newcomb's high school and middle school eats lunch together(Photos: Brian Mann)
Skip Hults hangs a new flag for each country that sends a student to Newcomb school
"
It’s mid-day and thirty-five kids are crowded around tables, talking and laughing. It looks like one of those big overstuffed American classrooms that we all complain about. But it turns out this isn’t one class – or even one grade. This is Newcomb’s entire high school AND middle school combined.
"You know I’m the first to admit that we are under-utilized," says district superintendent Skip Hults. "The only thing that we are lacking in our building is students."
Hults gives me a tour of the school’s state of the art facilities – computer rooms, a big performance space and a laboratory where a handful of kids are doing experiments.
Because of New York pays state property tax on all the state forest land in this area, Newcomb actually has plenty of money.
But most of the classrooms are empty. Hults says when he took this job, the future looked pretty grim.
"As I started going out five years, I just saw a trend where these numbers were just continually decreasing and decreasing," he said.
Newcomb is incredibly remote. The Hudson River gets its start as a mountain stream a few miles away. The entire town has fewer than 400 people.
The mine closed in the 1970s and town supervisor George Canon says losing the school would be a final blow.
"Oh, it’s your identity," he argued. "The school is your identity – to lose your school is to lose your identity as a town and we would fight to hold that no matter what."
The school had already cut staff to the bare minimum, even merging some grades together. So Hults decided four years ago to go looking for a fresh crop of kids far beyond this valley.
He began marketing the school overseas in the same way that you might market a high dollar American prep school.
"We have more computers than we do students. We have teacher-to-student ratios that you will only find in the finest of private schools."
His search worked, turning up students like Manon Vernette. "When I saw Newcomb on Google Earth, I only saw only woods!" she laughed.
Vernette is 18 years old from Lille France. She wanted to learn English and live in America and a student placement service suggested that she try Newcomb.
The price was great, only around $7,000 dollars a year, room and board included. But she admits that when she first arrived she was dismayed.
"I start to cry," she said, adding that at first she felt lonely. "But it's okay now. It’s really different but it’s like a big family, so that’s why I like to be here.
It turns out Vernette’s reaction is pretty common.
"When they arrive it’s like culture shock when they hit Newcomb," said Linda Montaine, director of the school’s foreign student program.
She works with the kids and with the host families who house them in exchange for a small stipend.
"They think New York and of course when they think New York they think the city and this is nothing like it. So when they get here and their cell phone doesn’t work they think ‘Where have I landed?’ But by the time they leave it’s family and there are many tears shed and many of them have come back and many of them intend to come back yet again."
Quan Luu is seventeen years old from Hanoi, Vietnam. He says the small-town culture has helped him to make connections fast.
"They are very friendly and they help me a lot with my homework, and with communicating and socializing," he said.
This semester, Newcomb has nine international students, from Vietnam, France, Russia, and Vietnam.
That’s enough to boost the high school’s enrollment by 25 percent. It also made the school more diverse and even sort of – cosmopolitan. .
Caitlin Yandon is thirteen and grew up here. She says she loves her school, but things used to be kind of claustrophobic.
"Sometimes it gets annoying to just have to be with just the same thing all the time," she said. "Sometimes you want to branch off and know other people."
But these cultural negotiations can be tricky. Kevin Bolan serves on Newcomb’s school board and heads the committee that oversees the foreign student program. He has hosted international kids himself.
"Well, there was one student who really didn’t like America. There were times when you said, well then, why did you come here. And they said, well it’s better in my country or we do it this way in my country…so we were trying to get them to be more open-minded."
Newcomb is working to improve its orientation program to help with some of that tension. They’ve also made changes to improve the academic qualifications of their foreign recruits.
Despite those wrinkles, Bolan says he thinks the program demonstrates that this is one school that shouldn’t be on the chopping block.
"This is the hub of the community, so what we've tried to do is rather than worry about consolidation, we've tried to make our school the best. No one would even think about closing us down or making us move."
The district hopes to add some sort of dormitory next year, to reduce stress on host families — and so the number of foreign students can grow.
A school in Millinocket Maine is trying to develop a similar program, recruiting students from China.
Superintendent Skip Hults says this formula might work for other small schools in the North Country that have great facilities and great eachers but need more kids.
"I believe, most rural schools being under-utilized, really can take additional students at very minimal cost," he argued.
The next step, Hults says, is lobbying to change American visa rules so his foreign students can stay in Newcomb for more than a year.
Student plans Cambodia work
A STUDENT from Malvern is planning to work with orphans in Cambodia next year.
Melissa Thomas, 17, a Hereford Sixth Form College student, hopes to volunteer on behalf of Outreach International at an orphanage in Siem Reap for a month from June 2011.
The former Chase High school student will be joined by classmate Matthew Neale, also 17, of Ross on Wye.
She said: “I aspire to work with children when I'm older so I believe that going to Cambodia would be the greatest experience to have before I go to university.”
The pair are looking for donations from individuals or organisations to raise £2,000 each to support their trip, with £400 from each going directly the orphanage.
They will be teaching the children English, supporting them in their daily life and play, as well as helping them to raise money through their favourite pastime of dancing.
For more information, visit outreachinternational.co.uk
Garden of smiles in Cambodia
In Cambodia earlier this year, Nimbin’s Lois Kelly travelled to a remote school each morning to teach English to orphaned children.
In the back of a sheltered trailer (known as a ‘tuk tuk’), which was pulled along by a motorbike, Lois and her friend Moya Sharpe travelled along remote dirt roads bordered by rice paddies being ploughed by yoked oxen. They would arrive early at the Who Will Village and then spend the day teaching the children in the orphanage. When the children from the local villages heard there were two Australian volunteer teachers, they flocked to the school in the afternoons and filled up the classrooms.
“Some afternoons we had 60 kids in the classroom,” Lois said. “We taught them to sing, dance, and understand English without parroting. They really need more qualified teachers to go over there and volunteer their time… educating these kids really gives them an opportunity to create a future for themselves.”
This year was Lois’s second trip to Cambodia and before she went, she raised as much money as she could to donate to the Cambodian children’s charity Camkids.
Lois became inspired to help the children of Cambodia five years ago after seeing her friends Dominic and Bonita Sharpe donate their time and their lives to setting up the Camkids charity.
Dominic (Moya’s brother) and Bonita travelled to Cambodia to adopt a child seven years ago and were so horrified when they saw the state of the orphanages, they decided to put their professional lives on hold and try to make a difference to the lives of these children. Many kids were dying of preventable diseases, and they thought they would put in a medical centre and help fund a doctor to visit once a week.
Dominic and Bonita then spent years raising money to establish schools, medical centres and fund a wide range of sustainable projects in some of the poorest areas of Cambodia. They mortgaged their home in London and last year, moved to Cambodia.
“They felt they could do more if they were over there,” Lois said. “I have been so inspired by them and the work they are doing. They are totally committed and put a massive effort into it. They are up every day at 6am, checking their email and they are still working at 10pm at night to raise money and support for Camkids. They live very modestly, with no luxuries like air conditioning, so you melt while you are there… because every cent they have goes to the kids.”
Lois first visited Cambodia in 2006, after raising $3500, all of which went directly into setting up a medical centre at the Kais Village Orphanage in the Kampong Speu region. Lois said, unlike other charities, Camkids has no administration costs and she knows that every cent raised goes directly to helping set up infrastructure to help the children and make a real difference to their lives.
“In Kais Village, 28 out of the 41 children there had a disability,” Lois said. “When kids have a disability, their parents often don’t have the capacity to look after them. Many of the kids there needed operations on their eyes.
“I met a beautiful 12-year-old boy there whose mother had died… even though he had lost an arm, he painted more than any other kid. I wanted to take him home with me… but he was too old to be adopted. When you look at a kid like that you think ‘I’d like to send that kid to university’. A lot of things are cheap in Cambodia, but education is not cheap, that’s why they see it as such an opportunity.”
Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world. Due to the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, today 60% of the Cambodian population is under the age of 25. This has resulted in the creation of generations of children who have been orphaned or abandoned through poverty. Often children are found in boxes on the orphanage doorsteps, or are left at hospitals.
“Pol Pot killed so many people in the 70s that today there are very few older family members to help with the raising of children,” Lois said. “We had a driver who was 45 and could remember being beaten when he was 12 and living on a handful of rice a day. His parents had died and only he and one sibling are left alive.
“Over 70% of Cambodians live on subsistence. I’ve seen a guy try to plough land with a stick… they are so thin and poor, we don’t realise how lucky we are here in Australia.”
During the five weeks Lois spent in Cambodia this year, she visited different orphanages and slum schools and brought smiles to the faces of scores of Cambodian children.
“The second day I went to the Who Will Orphanage, we all squeezed onto two buses, Cambodian style, and took the kids to Kids Kool in Phnom Pehn; it’s a bit like Disneyland,” Lois said. “Some of them went swimming or went on a jumping castle for the first time and ate a special lunch and ice-cream… One little boy stayed in a toy car for hours, I couldn’t move him out of it.
“There were so many screams of laughter and joy. I’m in love with these kids. They are like a garden of flower smiles… they are just beautiful.”
Lois visited Wat Opot, a refuge for children and adults who have AIDS to give them a place to live and die with dignity.
“The roads are so rough. Tourists don’t get to these places,” Lois said. “First there are no cars, then no tuk tuks, then only bicycles, then oxen, then only people on foot. AIDS is huge in Cambodia. Kids are raped and abandoned, and no-one will touch them. At Wat Opot, they have extended lives and brought in education. They are a beautiful community with over 60 kids and 25 adults.”
Lois said that the spread of HIV in Cambodia was being fuelled by the mistaken belief that having sex with a virgin would cure a person of AIDS. This belief, along with endemic poverty and child prostitution, was leading to large numbers of Cambodian children contracting the virus.
At Wat Opot, Camkids has helped fund the establishment of a fish farm and a pig sty to help the people there to become self-sufficient and sustainable. They are taught how to maintain solar units and raise fish to feed themselves, and then sell the excess food to make money. Camkids is now funding many different sustainability projects in Cambodia, with the main focus on education and health, so a lot of the projects are attached to schools.
Lois visited three slum schools in Phnom Pehn, one of them in an area where more than 3000 families live in cramped conditions. One of the slums was built on top of a filled-in lake and now seepage is coming up into houses.
“For the people there, it’s a tenuous existence,” Lois said. “Camkids has helped set up a school there… the kids have nothing, but they turn up for school.
“As you walk through the slums, you step over drains, then come to a little room set up as a classroom. The school also doubles as a medical centre and at night, sick kids come in for treatment. Those kids are spiritually richer than our kids; they share when they have nothing. They will be at school early and still study till 10 at night. They are very studious, happy and they don’t fight. They have the most beautiful hearts and are just delightful to work with.”
Learning English gives Cambodian children an opportunity to find employment in the future, particularly with a growing tourism industry. Camkids has also set up tailor and hairdressing schools to help young kids learn a trade, as well as funding sporting activities and buying tuk tuks and bicycles to help children get to school each day.
“Bicycles are good value for money because they manage to fit about seven kids on one bike,” Lois laughed.
After seeing the direct effects of the money she helped raise, Lois is more determined than ever to spread the word and encourage more people to donate money or time to help the children of Cambodia.
“Three US dollars a day keeps a child educated and clothed,” she said. “The money that goes over there makes a massive difference. The Cambodian people are so focussed on getting better educated and picking themselves up from the mire.”
Lois’s teaching buddy, Moya Sharpe, has just won an ‘Outstanding Teacher of the Year’ award and wants to use her $10,000 prize money to set up classrooms in Cambodian slum schools. Moya and Lois are looking for people to help take the computers over to Cambodia as well as donate their time to the growing culture of ‘voluntourism’ and help out in the newly- established schools. Any donations of money or time to help fundraise for the cause is also appreciated. If you would like to find out more about how to help, visit the website www.camkids.org. You can also look for The Cambodian Children’s charity on Facebook and see videos of the works in progress. Lois is also looking for local schools that would like to get involved in fundraising activities. For more information, phone Lois Kelly on 6622 4011.
Thailand - still the land of smiles?
- Author: William Bradridge
- Date: Friday 19th November 2010
- Associated Links:
Teach English in Thailand? Commonly known as the land of smiles, if you have been watching international events recently you would be forgiven for wondering what Thais have had to smile about. But despite the recent political unrest and the creeping onset of more stringent rules for English teachers, Thailand remains a huge draw for both new and experienced TEFL teachers alike.
Thailand’s economy is growing fast and tourists are flocking back. A booming demand for Thai made products is driving the Asian recovery, while much Europe lingers in debt recession. So the Thai economy is one that can afford to invest in learning and English lessons still lead the way. Great news for TEFL qualified who are tempted to bustling Thai cities or its beautiful beaches.
But what is it really like teaching there? Can the reality live up to the expectation?
What you need to teach English in Thailand
Firstly, the days of the unqualified back-packer with no degree or TEFL picking up plentiful teaching have long gone. The government currently stipulates that a degree is necessary to teach legally in Thailand, although a Thai language school owner told us recently;
‘The regulations of the Ministry of Education state that foreign teachers should have a degree and a TEFL/TESOL certificate. In reality this rule is only applied in Bangkok and Phuket, where there are a large number of applicants for jobs. Other provinces are more lax, as they have fewer applicants wishing to work in the less attractive (non-tourist) locations.
There are many good jobs to be had in places neighbouring Phuket, such as Phang Nga, and nearby provinces in the south such as Surat Thani and Krabi. There are very attractive destinations and quite popular among newly-trained teachers. They offer employment with reasonable salary, cheap accommodation and subsistence, proximity to beaches and easy travel to tourist resorts at the weekend.’
This more liberal approach is supported by TEFL Teacher Prijie Moodley, who says:
‘I got my job via the www.ajarn.com website. I basically just came over here on a tourist visa, sent off a few CVs and got offered a couple of positions fairly quickly. I took the ECC job as the school is fairly quick to get to from where I live (a big consideration in this traffic-congested city) and the fact that they are a large-ish concern with a lot of teachers on their books (and the likelihood of running a smoother operation than most). No problems so far other than having to deal with the Thai way of doing things (appointments cancelled at short notice, little information offered, things just sprung on you, etc.).
So you begin to get a picture that what is formally requested by the authorities and what is acceptable at a local level are quite different.
What’s the position for older English teachers in Thailand?
Most people who have spent time looking on the various Thai teaching forums will know there is an age bias towards younger teachers, as you’ll see with the number of people who have commented on the Ajarn website we’ve linked to. Indeed, some of our Global English graduates have found this out for themselves.
But if you are over 45, although you may have a smaller pool of private language schools that would see you as employable, don’t count all as lost. As Cassandra James points out in her blog post, it depends somewhat on your mindset and approach. If you prepare your CV effectively, you can get through to the interview stage, where you can make your impression.
Vaughn Buxton is 51 and took the approach of doing volunteer teaching first. He comments:
‘I did volunteer teaching at two schools in my area, went on several school trips and teachers conferences meeting lots of people from teachers to headmasters, directors and professors. After talking with them, I found that most will offer you work or put you in touch with someone who can find you work. They want the best for their schools and if you are only staying for a month at a time before moving on, volunteer work is probably all you will get. But if you plan to stay the story is very different.
I am planning to live in Thailand permanently. I passed my TESOL Global English course on Thursday 11th in the afternoon, and on Friday 12th in the morning I rang headmaster from the meetings I had been to. I arranged an interview at 9.30am the same day and started work at 10.30am. I now teach 20 hours a week at the top primary school in Surin with a very good salary.’
It is more competitive than before in the big cities and so to make yourself stand out from the crowd, perhaps consider a 100 hour TEFL certificate which includes a specialisation, such as teaching English to young learners (TEYL), business or teaching one-to-one.
Thai culture and norms
In a country where some say corruption is rampant (there are stories of pupils trying to buy English exam results) and yet where people are not always results-oriented, it can be difficult to motivate classes of young people. The situation can be different if teaching in private schools or to corporate students, but it is certainly a place where you may have to leave any preconceived ideas about the impact you can make through teaching English at the airport. Otherwise, you may simply run the risk of getting frustrated by inefficiency and a seeming lack of interest.
On the other hand, perhaps it is the apparent lack of interest in materialism and bettering oneself for a competitive advantage amongst ordinary Thais that is at once refreshing and instantly appealing to many from the West. While it is hard to generalise, one article suggests that to Thais, ‘family, friends, community and good food’ are most important.
So, is Thailand still the land of smiles? Well, probably, but if you are considering teaching English here, it is worth brushing up on the customs, history and norms that make Thailand what it is before you go.
What next to teach English in Thailand
If you are still fascinated by the prospect of living and teaching in this amazing and diverse country, have a look at our Thailand travel page – and if you are ready to take the plunge, enrol on a TEFL weekend in the UK or an online TESOL course.
Thirsty for more? Check out www.Ajarn.com - a great resource for everything Thai, including teaching jobs, forums and fresh ideas for your classes.
New Sathorn International School in Bangkok requires Math/Science Teacher
At least 60,000 Baht/month
NSIS urgently requires:
MATH/SCIENCE TEACHER (Secondary School)
Only FULLY QUALIFIED NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS possessing an Education degree or Graduate Certificate in Education will be considered for the above positions.
New Sathorn International School (NSIS) is a growing, progressive Christian school offering a pleasant working environment and a stunning campus in the heart of Bangkok’s Business District.
We offer a competitive employment package that includes a work permit, health insurance, and free snacks and lunch (international and Thai cuisine).
Applicants should send a personally prepared, fully detailed resume (NOT downloaded job website version), copy of transcripts, and a recent photograph to our e-mail address: jobs@newsathorn.com. You may also fax these documents to our school office at: 02-672-2102.
Applicants should be in Thailand and available for a personal interview.
Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
For more information visit our website at www.newsathorn.com
MATH/SCIENCE TEACHER (Secondary School)
Only FULLY QUALIFIED NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS possessing an Education degree or Graduate Certificate in Education will be considered for the above positions.
New Sathorn International School (NSIS) is a growing, progressive Christian school offering a pleasant working environment and a stunning campus in the heart of Bangkok’s Business District.
We offer a competitive employment package that includes a work permit, health insurance, and free snacks and lunch (international and Thai cuisine).
Applicants should send a personally prepared, fully detailed resume (NOT downloaded job website version), copy of transcripts, and a recent photograph to our e-mail address: jobs@newsathorn.com. You may also fax these documents to our school office at: 02-672-2102.
Applicants should be in Thailand and available for a personal interview.
Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
For more information visit our website at www.newsathorn.com
Thailand - Globalization: Law schools get serious
"In the meantime, schools are launching their own programs intended to add international opportunities. Jindal has forged partnerships with three U.S. law schools during the past two months. The University of Wisconsin Law School announced in October that it is launching a new executive LL.M. with the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai, making it the school's third such partnership with an Asian institution this year."
http://www.law.com/jsp/nlj/PubArticleNLJ.jsp?id=1202475341629&Globalization_Law_schools_get_serious&slreturn=1&hbxlogin=1
http://www.law.com/jsp/nlj/PubArticleNLJ.jsp?id=1202475341629&Globalization_Law_schools_get_serious&slreturn=1&hbxlogin=1
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Massive European Pyramids Discovered
The Bosnian Pyramid, Visocica Hill, is the first European pyramid to be discovered and is located in the heart of Bosnia, in the town of Visoko.
Because of its similarities to the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan, Mexico, it has been named the "Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun". There are also a four more ancient structures on the site, the Bosnian Pyramid of the Moon, Bosnian Pyramid of the Dragon, Bosnian Pyramid of the Love and Temple of the Earth, with a paved entrance plateau and discovered underground tunnels.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
UK - Tens of thousands of foreign students face the axe to cut immigration numbers
Tens of thousands of foreign students will be barred from studying at private colleges to help slash immigration and curb the growing abuse of the system, the Home Secretary will signal today.
Nearly half of all students coming here from abroad are coming to study a course below degree level Photo: SEAN SPENCER
Monday, November 22, 2010
Foreign students adapt well to Vietnamese lifestyle
This fact is no longer strange in Vietnam as the country has boosted its international integration process and open-door policy. The overseas students in Vietnam not only include those from Laos and Cambodia as before but other countries as well.
As a matter of course, they find nearly everything here new when they first come to the country, including living environment, language barrier, and especially… traffic.
Dong Jie, a Chinese girl who studies at Vietnam’s Academy of Journalism and Communication, had fallen in love with Vietnam before she arrived in the country. When at home, she watched a TV programme on Vietnamese culture and people, which inspired her to learn in the Southeast Asian country.
Before coming to Vietnam, Dong Jie had already learnt Vietnamese for one year. Today, she has been in Vietnam for two years and can use Vietnamese fluently. She has successfully integrated herself into her Vietnamese friends and few people think she is a Chinese!
International students find life in Vietnam interesting and are keen on exploring it. They manage to learn how to ride a motorbike, cook, and bargain skillfully when shopping.
There has been an increase in the number of foreign students choosing Vietnam for their tertiary education. Many of them have considered Vietnam their ‘second homeland’. Jerzy Kacznanek, from Poland’s Poznan City is a typical example of this.
At first, Jerzy, a culturological student, came to Vietnam just to know more about it. But after several months of studying here, he quickly decided to settle in Vietnam.
Despite having a scholarship, he still seeks to work part-time in Hanoi to learn more about Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and lifestyle. His love for Vietnam grows day by day. He has now graduated from Hanoi University and got a Vietnamese girlfriend. ‘Hanoi beer is very delicious,’ he said happily.
Dr Nguyen Duc Dung from the Academy of Journalism and Communication said foreign graduates also take MA courses at his institution. He highly appreciates foreign students who have tried to overcome numerous obstacles to stabilize their lives.
Mr Dung added that the academy has offered favourable conditions for them to live and study comfortably in Vietnam.
Source: VOV
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Five foreign students find surprises in U.S.
Published Nov 19, 2010 12:00 am | Last updated Nov 19, 2010 12:00 am
Mountain Valley High School is hosting five foreign students this year. From left, seated, are Aseniy Pisarev and Aizhan Tagaeva from Kyrgyzstan, and Ka Wai Yam from Hong Kong; standing, Panaramol Heammaphun from Thailand and Donghyeon No from South Korea.
- Eileen M. Adams/Sun Journal
RUMFORD — Mountain Valley High School is hosting five foreign exchange students this year, providing an environment for education and cross cultural experiences, and some surprises.
Panaramol Heammaphun, whose nickname is "Prim," said she had watched many American movies in her native Thailand and had certain expectations about the United States that haven't been borne out since her arrival this fall.
“People are nice here, not like in the movies,” the 17-year-old said.
Arseniy Pisarev, 15, from the country Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia, agreed.
“There is so much here — more books, technology. And people are much nicer that I expected,” he said.
Other foreign students attending MVHS are Donghyeon No, 15, of South Korea, Aizhan Tagaeva, 17, of Kyrgyzstan, and Ka Wai Yam, 18, of Hong Kong.
They, along with Telstar High School foreign exchange student, Supatach Vadhanachai, of Thailand, live with host families in Mexico.
All said they want to improve their English while here, and most have found living in a small town very different from the large cities they come from.
“It's very different, very quiet,” Ka Wai said. “People here all know each other.”
He said he wants to meet not only Americans but foreigners here as well. He and others have that opportunity when foreign students from area high schools travel together to other parts of the country.
“Everything about America looks nice,” Donghyeon said. “School is easier, and I like the American culture, the TV shows and music.”
Aizhan said she has found many surprises so far. She and her host family recently traveled to Virginia where she noticed how fast the cars traveled and how big the trucks are.
Ka Wai was particularly surprised to find so many pickup trucks in the River Valley area, and that many people have guns. He also had never seen people swim in a river, like they do in the Swift River in Mexico.
Aizhan wants to eventually go into international relations.
“I want to compare cultures and to experience an American high school,” she said.
She, and several others, also want to go to college in the United States, at least for part of their post-secondary education.
The high school's International Club helps the foreign students in their new surroundings and organizes special activities for them. One is a visit with middle school students in January.
Katlyn Burgess, a member of the International Club, said she likes being a member because she learns so much about different cultures. She'd like to be an exchange student, too, maybe to a Middle East country, she said.
eadams@sunjournal.com
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thailand MICE Education launched
BANGKOK, 16 November 2010 (NNT) - Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has launched ‘Thailand MICE Education Project’ aimed at improving academic knowledge of the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions industry.
According to TCEB, the MICE industry attracted over 620,000 people into the country, generating 45 billion baht last year in spite of political upheaval and violence. This year, the TCEB expected to attract up to 720,000 people, generating over 57 billion baht for the industry and the country as a whole.
With the cooperation of Thailand Incentive and Convention Association, the Department of Export Promotion, and universities across the kingdom, the TCEB is set to develop human resources to accommodate the growth in the MICE industry.
President of TCEB, Akkapol Sorasuchart, said Thailand is in dire need of qualified personnel and specialists in MICE, the industry which has seen an average yearly growth rate of 20 to 25 percent.
According to TCEB, the MICE industry attracted over 620,000 people into the country, generating 45 billion baht last year in spite of political upheaval and violence. This year, the TCEB expected to attract up to 720,000 people, generating over 57 billion baht for the industry and the country as a whole.
With the cooperation of Thailand Incentive and Convention Association, the Department of Export Promotion, and universities across the kingdom, the TCEB is set to develop human resources to accommodate the growth in the MICE industry.
President of TCEB, Akkapol Sorasuchart, said Thailand is in dire need of qualified personnel and specialists in MICE, the industry which has seen an average yearly growth rate of 20 to 25 percent.
Open Source Software for Education
After spending four days in October in Ho Chi Minh City attending a workshop called Foss Asia 2010, I reached the conclusion that open source software could be the answer to copyright issues on software or computer technology in developing countries such as Cambodia and Vietnam, where many poor people were under-paid and pirated copies of software were widely available.
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2010111744766/LIFT/the-constructive-cambodian.html
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2010111744766/LIFT/the-constructive-cambodian.html
7th CamTESOL Conference on English Language Teaching “English for Mobility”
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 26-27 February 2011
Educational Site Visits
Site Visits are scheduled for the morning of Friday 25 February. Tours will commence promptly at 9:30 a.m. and finish after lunch (included) at 1:30 p.m. There will be a maximum number of participants on each tour. Pick up and drop off will be at the Himawari Hotel. Cost per tour is USD$30.
Participants may choose between the following organised tours -
- Self access facilities (ELT focused)
- Regional Teacher Training Centre (RTTC) Literacy programs
- Public schools
- Private language schools
- Research institutes
The purpose of these tours is to provide an opportunity for international visitors to gain insights into the Cambodian educational context. For presenters at the conference this is an excellent opportunity, prior to presenting to a predominantly Cambodian audience, to gain first-hand impressions of local schools and the local learning environment. For first-time visitors to Cambodia, these tours will enhance your experience of the country and provide you with a better understanding of the educational context of the CamTESOL conference.
Tour # 1: Self Access Facilities
(SACs in English Language Centres)
Guided Individual Learning Centre - Australian Centre for Education (ACE)
ACE operates a Guided Individual Learning (GIL) Centre, based on principles established in a recent large-scale study of best practice in self-access in Australia. Features include a large range of e-learning materials and a systematised, Cambodian-focused materials production facility that feeds into a General English and Pre-Departure program for scholarship students proceeding overseas. For more information, please visit: http://www.cambodia.idp.com/ace/the_guided_individual_learning.aspx
Self Access Centre - Institute of Foreign Languages (IFL) / RUPP
IFL is part of the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) which is Cambodia’s oldest and most prestigious Government university. The IFL runs a TESOL teacher-training program to feed into the Government high school system throughout Cambodia. It also conducts a large English language teaching program.
Tour #2: Regional Teacher Training Centre – Takhmao (RTTC-Takhmao)
RTTC-Takhmao is one of six Regional Teacher Training Centres in Cambodia. It is located in Takhmao Town of Kandal Province, about 25 minutes from Phnom Penh. Its main role is to prepare future lower secondary school teachers in an assigned subject such as Khmer Literature, Mathematics, Sciences, English language and Pedagogy. Each year RTTC-Takhmao trains around 500 trainees from the provinces of Kandal, Kompong Chhnang and Kompong Speu Province.
Tour #3: Literacy Programs
(Two Local NGO-Organised Programs)
Cambodian Volunteers for Community Development (CVCD)
CVCD is a local not-for-profit organisation. It operates a non-formal Khmer literacy class at elementary level. The program targets children from the poorest families, based on household and family interview. The classes operate five days a week and students are taught Mathematics, Khmer reading and writing, Geography, History, Science, Environmental studies, Health, Hygiene and Social Morality. For more information, please visit: http://www.cvcd.org.kh
Pour un Sourire d'Enfant (PSE)
PSE is a non-profit organisation officially founded in 1996. It supports over 7,000 children from poor families around the country by providing general education from kindergarten through high school and vocational training skills. The latter includes hotel and hospitality training, cooking, childcare, gardening, beauty treatment and small business management. For more information, please visit: http://www.pse.asso.fr
Tour #4: Public Schools
(One Elementary and One High School)
Preah Norodom Elementary School
Preah Norodom Elementary School is typical of many public elementary schools in Cambodia although by Cambodian standards it is relatively well-resourced by virtue of it being in the capital city and also under direct supervision by the Phnom Penh Municipal Office of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport. The school operates Grades 1 – 6.
Preah Sisowath High School
This high school is one of the better public high schools in Phnom Penh and is located right in the heart of the city north of Independence Monument. It was named after one of the greatest Khmer Kings who reigned between 1904 and 1927. Most of the buildings are French colonial style. Preah Sisowath operates both a junior high school and a senior high school.
Tour #5: Private Language Schools
(Two Local ELT Institutes)
BELTEI International Institute (BELTEI 9, Stung Meanchey)
BELTEI International Institute is one of the leading private institutes in Cambodia. BELTEI is an acronym representing six major subjects – Business, Economics, Law, Tourism, English, and Information Technology. It was founded in 2002. Its five main programs include Khmer General Education (Grades 1-12), ESL (Pre-school levels 1 to 12), Faculty of Foreign Languages (B.A., B.Ed and Associate of Arts in English Literature), Computer Training Courses, and International Test Preparation Courses (TOEFL, Password, ICDL). For more information please visit: www.beltei.edu.kh
Newton Thilay School (NTS)
Newton Thilay School was founded in 1996 under the stewardship of Mr. Chea Thilay. At present, NTS has 35 branches nationwide: 19 in Phnom Penh, 3 in Battambang Province, 6 in Banteay Meanchey Province, 2 in Preah Sihanouk Province, 1 in Koh Kong Province, 1 in Takeo Province, and 1 in Kampot Province. Newton Thilay School provides a wide range of training programs including General English, Kindergarten, Khmer General Education, English for Academic Purposes, English for Business and Computer Programs.
Tour #6: Research Institutes
(Two Independent NGOs)
Cambodian Development Resource Institute (CDRI)
CDRI is an independent Cambodian development policy research institute whose mission is to contribute to Cambodia’s sustainable development and the well-being of its people by generating high quality policy related development research, knowledge dissemination and capacity building. For more information, please visit: http://www.cdri.org.kh/
The Documentation Centre of Cambodia (DC-Cam)
DC-Cam is a documentation centre for the myriad of crimes and atrocities of the Khmer Rouge era. It was founded in 1995 as a field office of Yale's Cambodian Genocide Program (CGP) by Mr Youk Chhang, a survivor the Khmer Rouge’s “killing fields.” DC-Cam became an independent and non-profit research institute in 1997. DC-Cam has been playing crucial role in providing documentation support to the current Khmer Rouge Tribunal. For more information, please visit: http://www.dccam.org/Abouts/index.htm
HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn pilots Buddhist pilgrimage flight to India
(Forimmediaterelease.net) Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) recently organized a Buddhist pilgrimage flight to Gaya, Republic of India, for merit making with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn graciously piloting this special Buddhist pilgrimage flight, departing Bangkok for Gaya on November 13, 2010 and attended by Her Royal Highness Princess Srirasm, Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha, and His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti.Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI President, said that in the spirit of THAI’s 50th anniversary, this flight carried the honorable participants to Bodhgaya, India, where Buddha attained enlightenment and is considered to be the spiritual center for Buddhists worldwide. THAI invited government ministers, businesses, government entities, and state enterprises to join in this Buddhist pilgrimage flight, with a total of 100 seats available for a kind contribution of up to 500,000 Baht per seat. The entire net proceeds received from this Buddhist pilgrimage flight will be presented to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and will go towards His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Scholarship Foundation and to His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti’s Fund for Disaster Victims.
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Scholarship Foundation, set up in 2009, was established to create scholarship opportunities for young Thai students with financial hardship but who attained exceptional academic performance in school and exhibited determination in learning, good behavior, and morals. Qualifying students will be granted scholarships for study in high school, undergraduate university education to earn a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent, and through to the highest level of post-graduate study. Students who are awarded this scholarship are considered the future of Thai society, whereby there is no commitment to pay back the equivalent value of scholarship through service. Two students (one of each gender) from each province who fit the criteria will be selected. The first academic class in 2009 has 152 scholarship recipients, while the total currently throughout Thailand is at 300.
Proceeds from the Buddhist Pilgrimage Flight will go towards His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti’s Fund for Disaster Victims, a fund established by decree of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn and Her Royal Highness Princess Srirasm, to assist those who face extreme hardship as a result of natural disasters. In the past, His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti’s Fund for Disaster Victims provided medical equipment to various hospitals located on the border of Southern Thailand. As well, the fund has granted scholarships to train more nurses, whereby these nurses return to the border area of Southern Thailand to develop and improve the livelihoods of the local Thai people.
Those who contributed to this Buddhist Pilgrimage Flight took part in a significant merit making, whereby all Thais nationwide may be provided the opportunity to study medicine, public health, religion, and athletics. In addition, Thais who are affected by natural disasters will receive necessary assistance from the graciousness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and members of the Royal Family of the kingdom of Thailand.
PHOTO: HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn in the pilot seat / Photo from thaiairways.com
International Public Relations Department Thai Airways International Public Company Limited Tel: (662) 545-2662 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (662) 545-2662 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, 2663, 1711, 4686, 1705, 2720 Fax: (662) 545-3891
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Thai education improves slowly due to lack of ICT
http://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news.php?id=255311150004
In my opinion, this is not true. There are many reasons Thai education moves 'slowly' but if IT is considered part of the equation, it is due to the inability of the teachers to understand and use it. Those teachers that do are often given the 'cold shoulder' by those that don't. Internet is viewed as a threat to the stability of the 'system', with many sites such as Wikipedia blocked by schools.
Broadband is also a huge problem with most schools. Even though a 3,000 student school has a 'net connection', it is 1mbps or less. Once the 60 or so students show up for class and turn on their computers, bandwidth drops to zero.
Thais are not stupid. The administrators and government officials intentionally design the system to 'fail' and be useless as they do not want students questioning or having access to knowledge they themselves do not know how to get or understand due to their own lack of English and research skills. Knowledge has a price and the folks who run the educational system don't want to pay it with the loss of face...
In my opinion, this is not true. There are many reasons Thai education moves 'slowly' but if IT is considered part of the equation, it is due to the inability of the teachers to understand and use it. Those teachers that do are often given the 'cold shoulder' by those that don't. Internet is viewed as a threat to the stability of the 'system', with many sites such as Wikipedia blocked by schools.
Broadband is also a huge problem with most schools. Even though a 3,000 student school has a 'net connection', it is 1mbps or less. Once the 60 or so students show up for class and turn on their computers, bandwidth drops to zero.
Thais are not stupid. The administrators and government officials intentionally design the system to 'fail' and be useless as they do not want students questioning or having access to knowledge they themselves do not know how to get or understand due to their own lack of English and research skills. Knowledge has a price and the folks who run the educational system don't want to pay it with the loss of face...
Monday, November 15, 2010
Vietnam Confucianism
Confucianism was introduced into Vietnam early during the Chinese rule and has maintained its influence since that time. In 1072, there was a temple dedicated to Confucius and his leading 72 disciples. Located in Hanoi, this temple was called the Temple of Literature. If one of you has ever been Saigon, you can see at the Botanical Gardens a temple dedicated to Confucius called the Temple of Souvenirs. This is the site of Confucius’ birthday celebration which is solemnly honored each year.
What is Confucianism?
As a major emphasis in its ethical system, Confucianism regulates relations between people. If there is improper conduct of these relations, it will cause disorders in the social group and therefore, throw man out of harmony with the universe. The cosmic world (heaven and earth) are in harmony and man’s aim is to achieve a similar one. Vietnamese Confucianism, though without a strong formalized organization, still vitally affects nearly all ethnic Vietnamese. This is part of the cultural environment where the child is born.
Khong Tse – the founder of Confucianism
The influence of Confucianism in Vietnam
The profound impact of Confucianism remains strong in Vietnam. Social order is defined by its principle as well as the rituals, deference and obedience.
Confucianism gave Vietnam a highly organized hierarchical society. Yet, while encouraging the improvement of the individual, it did also appeal his positive relationship with the community. In this sense, Confucianism is anti-individualistic.
According to Confucianism, death does not mean the annihilation of man. Confucianists believe that, the spirit which wanders in space as an exile should be brought back to the family altar and be worshiped. Besides, filial reverence is the primary duty of all Confucianists. That the reason why, on all solemn occasions, the ancestral spirit is invoked and offered liquors, flowers and fruit, accompanied with prayers and incense.
Confucianism is vividly seen throughout Vietnam in the Festival of the Arrival of Spring, the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Children’s Festival and the Festival of Tet.
Tet is the festival of renewal and rebirth, or meditation and hope. With fireworks, ringing bells, beating tom-toms, toys and food, Tet is a big occasion in Vietnam. Many folk visit the pagodas to worship, burn joss-sticks and sandalwood incense, with flowers, food and liquors placed also on the family altars.
The other worship occasions involve the worship of the land. Such ceremonies include the festival of the beginning of plowing, the rice festival, the harvest festival and the festival of the first fruits. In spite of drought, war, foods… the Vietnamese farmer never seems to lose faith in the land as he plows, plants, harrows, weeds and irrigates it. To express his thankfulness for such response, the land is given honor in seasonal festivals which expressing their hopes and efforts of the past and for the future. Such worship of the land has tended to create in the Vietnamese peasant an almost fanatical attachment to his birthplace which nourished him during his life. It is the combination of worship of the land and ancestor veneration that creates the sight of numberless graves being scattered throughout the farming areas of Vietnam.
Besides, Confucianism has exercised a powerful influence in the formation of Vietnamese society where family is the basic unity. Thus, the three fundamental principles which govern Vietnamese women are the obedience to father until married, the obedience to husband while married, the obedience to eldest son when husband is dead
However, the value of Confucianism as a moderating influence upon social behavior is being rapidly superseded by the flexibility and openness in a developing society.
Moderate improvement seen in TOEIC test scores
Staff Writer, with CNA
Taiwan made progress in an international English proficiency test for non-native speakers last year, but its average score still fell below the world average, according to Chun Shin Ltd, the test’s representative in Taiwan.
More alarming was that Taiwan’s progress was also slower than the global average, as evidenced by the widening gap since 2008, said Benjamin Wang (王星威), president of Chun Shin Ltd.
Taiwanese scored an average of 539 in last year’s Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC), an increase of 6 points over the 2008 figure. However, this was still 27 points behind the world average, a growth of 7 points from 2008’s deficit of 20 points, Wang said.
Among Asian countries, Taiwan ranked sixth in TOEIC scores last year, trailing India, the Philippines, China, Turkey and South Korea, but nevertheless ahead of Japan (7th), Thailand (8th) and Hong Kong (9th).
China made the most significant progress in the English -proficiency test, scoring 710 points last year, representing a year-on-year gain of 74 points. China’s ranking has advanced to third from sixth in 2008.
“According to our research, China’s social elites have made remarkable progress in English language ability in recent years. Local professionals intending to pursue a career in China should not ignore this trend,” Wang said.
One encouraging finding was that the average score of local test takers aged under 20 was 14 points higher than the world average for this age group, indicating that the government’s ongooing efforts to promote English education is gradually paying off, Wang said.
By profession, those in travel, hospitality, medical and healthcare services were among the poorest performers, Wang said, adding that the government should work to improve the English proficiency of workers in these sectors to facilitate its goal of promoting the tourism and biomedical industries.
Thais spend 94 minutes a day on average in reading: Research
BANGKOK, Nov 12 -- Thai people read an average of 94 minutes daily, but mainly among the young and government workers, according to academic research by Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Education and state-operated Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park).
According to the survey, young people and government officials were those spending their time on reading the most, whereas adults aged over 49 were found spending their time on doing so the least. Persons under 20 years old were found reading less with an average of reading habits on three to four days weekly.
The research on the reading situation and reading index in 2009 released Friday was conducted in 13 provinces.
Among those surveyed, 5,865 people filled in questionnaires, 156 attended small discussion sessions, and another 191 of them were studied through their extreme reading habits -- both for reading as their passion and the opposite, said Wannee Keamkate, lecturer and head of the research project.
According to the research, people living in urban areas had their reading index higher than those in suburban zones, and the reason why young people are not passionate about reading was due to their laziness.
Regarding their spending on books, Thai readers paid some Bt523 (US$18) for printed materials per month. The range of spending habits varied from spending nothing books at all until about Bt9,000 (US$310) monthly.
Meanwhile, Assoc Prof Sompong Jitradub of the Education Faculty said the fact that Thais read on average 94 minutes a day was useful information, as it could argue with previous statistics that Thais read only about eight lines a year. Such finding will as well act as a policy stimulation on reading, he added.
The Cabinet in August 2009 declared reading a national agenda by making April 2 Thailand's 'Reading Day'. This date also marks the birthday of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, known for being a passionate reader.
Moreover, 2009-2018 was announced as the 'Decade of Reading' in the country in order to promote and enhance reading habits among Thais. (MCOT online news)
According to the survey, young people and government officials were those spending their time on reading the most, whereas adults aged over 49 were found spending their time on doing so the least. Persons under 20 years old were found reading less with an average of reading habits on three to four days weekly.
The research on the reading situation and reading index in 2009 released Friday was conducted in 13 provinces.
Among those surveyed, 5,865 people filled in questionnaires, 156 attended small discussion sessions, and another 191 of them were studied through their extreme reading habits -- both for reading as their passion and the opposite, said Wannee Keamkate, lecturer and head of the research project.
According to the research, people living in urban areas had their reading index higher than those in suburban zones, and the reason why young people are not passionate about reading was due to their laziness.
Regarding their spending on books, Thai readers paid some Bt523 (US$18) for printed materials per month. The range of spending habits varied from spending nothing books at all until about Bt9,000 (US$310) monthly.
Meanwhile, Assoc Prof Sompong Jitradub of the Education Faculty said the fact that Thais read on average 94 minutes a day was useful information, as it could argue with previous statistics that Thais read only about eight lines a year. Such finding will as well act as a policy stimulation on reading, he added.
The Cabinet in August 2009 declared reading a national agenda by making April 2 Thailand's 'Reading Day'. This date also marks the birthday of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, known for being a passionate reader.
Moreover, 2009-2018 was announced as the 'Decade of Reading' in the country in order to promote and enhance reading habits among Thais. (MCOT online news)
Japanese Teachers-in-Training Volunteer Service in Cambodia
Professor Yoshida’s teachers-in-training conduct an English lesson outdoors for Cambodian students in Siem Riap, Cambodia.
Professor Kensaku Yoshida, a TIRF Board member, teaches at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. Starting in 2009, he took a group of English teacher training candidates to Siem Riap, Cambodia, where Sophia University has a Personnel Development Center. The purpose of the center is to assist the Cambodian people in preserving their own history and culture, with specific concern for Angkor Wat.
Professor Yoshida notes, “The President of Sophia University, Professor Yoshiaki Ishizawa, has expressed his wish for Sophia University students to contribute to the development of Southeast Asia. When I heard a couple of years ago that there were people in Cambodia who wanted to learn English from other Asians who also had to strive to
learn English as a foreign language, I went to the President to see what he thought of our teacher-trainees (who are themselves EFL learners) going to Cambodia to teach English. He, of course, was all for it. Then I talked to the students and several expressed their desire to participate in this initiative.”
Professor Yoshida (left) with Mr. Narong, the principal of Wat Chok Junior High School in Cambodia.
In 2009, eleven Japanese teacher trainees served as volunteer EFL teachers in Cambodia in the town of Seim Riap. Ten more participated in the summer of 2010. Three of the four college seniors who went to Cambodia in 2009 travelled all the way to Siem Riap again to support and encourage the present teacher-trainees, and to and meet some of their own Cambodian students from 2009. The teacher-trainees themselves raised the money to defray the cost of the project. In 2010, they also received a grant from a Sony international volunteer foundation (without help from any of their professors) to pay for part of the expenses.
Sophia University English teachers-in-training have been going to different parts of Japan for the past 40 years to teach English to local junior high and elementary school students. In 2010, there were about 100 teacher trainees working in six different cities around Japan, teaching a total of nearly 400 children. One of the students who went to Cambodia this year was himself a junior high school student who took part in this program as an English language learner in his city several years ago.
Professor Yoshida says, “I want my students to experience the kind of motivation children in other parts of the world have towards education in general, and especially towards learning English. My hope is for my students to realize the importance of education and the learning of English for the Cambodian children’s future, as well as the future of their country. Hopefully, they will become more aware the importance of learning English in Japan as well.”
Eight Japanese universities launched education expo in Cambodia
Eight Japanese universities had on Saturday 13th November held a Japanese education exhibition at the Cambodian-Japanese Cooperation Centre in Phnom Penh in order to promote Japanese education to prospective Khmer students who want to further their studies in Japan.
The 8 universities are: Kyushu University, Kyoto University, KobeGakuin University, International University Of Japan, Sophia University, University of Tsukuba, Nagoya University and Hiroshima University.
The 8 universities are: Kyushu University, Kyoto University, KobeGakuin University, International University Of Japan, Sophia University, University of Tsukuba, Nagoya University and Hiroshima University.
Mr. Tasuya Makshinda, a Japanese embassy official, said the purpose of the expo is to share Japanese education experiences and the education developments in Japan with Cambodian students in a view to the advancement of a quality and competitive education sector in Cambodia. He added that the expo is also aimed at providing prospective Cambodian students the information about the education in Japan, about the scholarships to study in Japan and about which Japanese university they wish to study.
Thanks, Australia! gets rolling
The Vietnamese Graduates from Australia Club (VGAC) has announced a membership expansion project to graduates from courses in Vietnam and Australian citizens whose qualifications are from Australia’s institutions currently living in Vietnam.
VGAC national chairman Huynh Du An announced the “Thanks, Australia!” project during the Australian Alumni Gala, held by the five-chapter club in Ho Chi Minh City Nov. 13 for its members nationwide to gather and share experience in studying and working, as well as build relations and sound out business opportunities in both countries.
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| (L-R) Australian Consul General Graeme Swift, VGAC national chairman Huynh Du An and Jack Snelling, South Australian Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, toast for the commencement of project “Thanks, Australia!” on Nov. 13 in Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: Tuong Thuy) |
“This project also aims to upgrade our database in order to bring more benefits to existing members as well as professional development opportunities to new members,” Mr. An added.
“Moreover, the VGAC directory is going to be published this year. We cordially invite you [members] to join the program “Thanks, Australia!” and believe it will bring more activities and great achievements to you and VGAC in the future.”
Found in 1991, the club is a non-profit organisation with a network of Vietnamese alumni from Australian universities and colleges and currently has over 5,000 members of five chapters in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hue, Danang and Can Tho.
Addressing the gala, the Australian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr. Graeme Swift, said, “Vietnamese alumni of the world’s universities have made a huge contribution to this country’s future.
“But tonight we celebrate the connection with Australia and the excellent work the Vietnamese Graduates from Australia Club does in keeping the links between Australia and the Vietnamese alumni alive… Australia and Vietnam enjoy very special people-to-people links and the Vietnamese alumni from Australian universities are a perfect example.
“And Australia’s education partnership with Vietnam continues to go from strength to strength.”
Mr. Jack Snelling, South Australian Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, told the gala, “I know the aim of this dinner tonight is for members of the VGAC to thank Australia. But I’d like to say, to those of you who studied in my home town of Adelaide, South Australia, even if it was many years ago, thank you.
“I’m asking you tonight to draw on your experiences and success to be ambassadors, spreading the word of the benefits of studying and living in Australia to your friends and families.
“In doing this you will be playing an important role, fostering the strong economic, social and cultural links between Adelaide and Vietnam, our very important regional neighbor.
“In South Australia, we value very highly the academic, cultural and social contributions made by international students. They have helped to grow Adelaide’s reputation as Australia’s premier learning city.”
Mr. Snelling is on a visit to Vietnam to promote his state’s educational and training links with the Southeast Asian nation.
Around 23,000 Vietnamese are studying across all levels and faculties throughout Australia, said Consul General Swift.
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