Cross-Cultural Learning of Burmese in Lampang, Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this research are 1. to study the way of life and motives that makes Burmese decision to live in Lampang Province, 2. to study cross-cultural learning of Burmese people in Lampang, and 3. to analyze the adaptation process for living altogether equally under the cultural differences. This research is the qualitative research by interviewing the community leaders, the Burmese, living in Tha Ma O community, Muang District, Lampang Province, and members of Tha Ma community. The research results reveal that living in Lampang Province is more prosperous in the socio-economic and quality of life than in their own country. This is the factor attracting the Burmese to decide to emigrate to live and work in Lampang Province because their country is underdeveloped with economic downturn and lack of quality of life. They need to immigrate to find work opportunities. In immigrating to find works of the Burmese, they also bring the culture and beliefs in their country into practice in Lampang. The cultural characteristics of the Burmese in Lampang are similar to people in Lampang such as Buddhism, worshipping the Buddha images, and going to the temple to make merit. Therefore, those groups can adjust and learn about the culture of the local areas quickly as well as analyzing the adaptation processes for equally living under cultural differences. The Burmese can adapt their thoughts and behaviors to the environment, economic, and social changes from their own country in order to survive and to be able to live happily.