English Communication Problems of Buddhist Monks and Novices with Foreigners at Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were 1) to study the problems in using English of monks and novices; 2) to design activities to enhance English language skills; and 3) to evaluate the effectiveness of English language use among monks and novices at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan. This study utilized an exploratory sequential mixed-methods research design. The sample group consisted of 20 Buddhist monks and novices in their first to fourth years of study at Buddhachinaraj Buddhist College, Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province. Independent variables included the learning environment, English communication skills, and the identity of Buddhist tourism in Phitsanulok Province. The dependent variable was the development of activities for visiting and providing information about the temple. The research tools included training processes and an English language manual, focusing on developing speaking skills for effective communication with foreign tourists. The research findings revealed that 1) the initial problem was that monks and novices lacked knowledge and understanding of using English to explain Buddhist terminology, arts and culture, and important places within temples; 2) the design of the activities and the development of a training curriculum using skill-enhancing activities helped to solve the problem of confidence in communicating with foreigners that had been previously lacking; 3) regarding effectiveness, before the experiment, the target group had a low level of English communication ability. However, after the activities and training based on the learning package combined with fieldwork, the monks and novices showed a very good level of English communication ability with foreigners and passed the CEFR standard test at level A2. This resulted in effective learning development and contributed to a positive image of Buddhist tourism in Phitsanulok Province.