Thai EFL University Students’ Perceptions of Native English-Speaking Teacher and Teacher’s Voice: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Cultural Perspectives

Abstract

This study aims to explore Thai EFL university students’ perceptions of their native English-speaking teacher (NEST). The data were collected by distributing students’ questionnaires with one hundred and thirty- three (N=133) freshmen students, based on three specific areas which included general perceptions, students’ language skills, and cultural perspectives. Moreover, qualitative data were collected by conducting semi-structured focus group interviews with nineteen freshmen students and also a one-on-one semi-structured interview with their NEST. Results showed that most students showed positive attitudes toward their NEST in terms of a relaxing learning environment, teaching performance, and cultural adaptation between them. Students preferred the NEST to teach them listening and speaking skills, whereas the weaknesses were concerned with teaching grammar, examination strategies, and the ability to communicate in Thai. Regarding students’ voices, they expressed their warm-hearted feeling by using a metaphor as truly high complimentary for their NEST. Cultural perspectives were also discussed. Overall, these findings suggested that being taught by NEST can be useful for Thai EFL students and it would be helpful for administrators to take these results from students’ voices into consideration whenever they decide to hire NEST for the teaching position. Suggestions for further studies were also discussed.