Thailand's Educational Research Directions for the Years 2025–2027: A Personal Perspective

Thailand's Educational Research Directions for the Years 2025–2027 - A Personal Perspective

By Janpha Thadphoothon

Having a well-defined and coherent plan is crucial, especially when it comes to educational research for a country like Thailand. Education forms the bedrock of a nation's progress, directly influencing its economic, social, and cultural development. Therefore, it demands meticulous attention and strategic planning.

On 13 May 2025, the Thai Cabinet officially approved the National Direction for Educational Research for 2025–2027. This important resolution marks a significant step in shaping the country’s educational research priorities over the next three years. The approved framework aims to provide clear directions for research funding agencies and educational research institutions, ensuring that future research initiatives align with national development goals and the rapidly changing educational landscape. Let's look at what we have been informed so far.

Credit: https://moe360.blog/2025/05/14/national-ed-res-dir/

Four Key Areas of Focus

The new educational research directions are organized into four (4) main areas, comprising a total of eight (8) priority issues:

1. Research for Developing New Ideas, Systems, and Structures

   • Focuses on creating educational systems that can effectively respond to ongoing and future changes.

   • Emphasizes:

     • Lifelong Learning

     • Education for Green and Sustainable Lifestyles

2. Research for Defining Production Systems and Skill Development

   • Aims to enhance essential skills among students, educators, and the workforce.

   • Highlights:

     • Development of Critical Skills

     • Fostering Political Literacy and Pluralism

3. Research for Improving the Efficiency of Educational Management

   • Seeks to increase the competitiveness of the Thai education system at both national and international levels.

   • Key priorities include:

     • Quality Educational Standards

     • Reducing Inequalities and Promoting Equity

     • Strengthening the Efficiency of the Educational System

4. Research for Designing High-Quality Educational Assessment Systems

   • Intends to develop assessment methods that reflect actual learning outcomes and are applicable in various contexts.

   • Includes:

     • Digital and AI-based Educational Assessment and Learning Technologies

Expected Benefits and Impact

The new directions are expected to bring numerous benefits and tangible outcomes. By providing a systematic and structured research framework, it will enable research institutions and funding bodies to work in alignment with national needs and current social contexts. The policy emphasizes practical application, ensuring that research findings directly contribute to solving problems and addressing educational challenges effectively.

For more information, visit: https://moe360.blog/2025/05/14/national-ed-res-dir

Reflections and Personal Thoughts

In my opinion, the announcement of these national research directions is both timely and necessary. It is obvious that Thailand’s education system, like many others around the world, is undergoing rapid transformation. Issues such as digital disruption, environmental challenges, and social inequalities demand that educational research becomes more responsive and inclusive.

What I particularly appreciate is the emphasis on lifelong learning, sustainable lifestyles, and AI-driven educational innovations — areas that will undeniably shape the future of our learners and societies. The recognition of political literacy and pluralism as vital competencies also demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to preparing students for a dynamic, interconnected world.

I'm a bit disappointed that the current research directions seem to overlook two crucial areas: creativity and local/community engagement. It's vital that our educational research doesn't solely focus on criticality but also delves into the realm of creativity. After all, as the saying goes, "Creativity is intelligence having fun." While often attributed to Einstein, the sentiment that creativity is paramount for innovation and progress rings true.

Similarly, the well-being and strength of local people and their culture are the bedrock of a nation's true strength. Research should explore how education can better foster and integrate community engagement, ensuring that learning is relevant, impactful, and deeply connected to the unique contexts and needs of Thailand's diverse communities.

Common sense tells us that for educational research to be meaningful, it must be aligned with the realities of the time. I hope that this new framework will not only guide scholars and institutions but also inspire a new generation of researchers to ask bold questions, explore new ideas, and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for Thai education.

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency, institution, or organization. The information provided is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, the author makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are encouraged to consult official sources for the latest updates and official policy statements.

About Janpha Thadphoothon

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.