Linguistic and Cultural Imperialism in English Language Education in Thailand

Abstract

English has gained a position in the world as a global language. However, some scholars have argued that the hegemonic spread of English is a consequence of linguistic and cultural imperialism of mainstream native English speaking nations. In this paper, we draw on pedagogical practices of linguistic and cultural imperialism that promote dominant discourse and consequently cause learners to uphold the status quo of native speakers. In order to liberate English education in Thailand, we maintain that critical pedagogy, which relates classroom practice with social, political and economic realities, is supposed to help learners to build on their critical consciousness of English in the global context and its social, political and economic implications. We also suggest English language education in Thailand go beyond native and non-native dichotomy and recognize the role English plays in the world and consider the ways English is appropriated to suit local interests.