สถานภาพและความต้องการความรู้ด้านภาษาต่างประเทศของนักศึกษาวิทยาลัยอาชีวศึกษาในเขตพัฒนาพิเศษภาคตะวันออก

The States and Needs about Foreign Language Knowledge of Vocational College Students of Eastern Economic Corridor Zone

บทคัดย่อ

Abstract

          The purpose of this research was to study the states and needs about foreign language knowledge of vocational college students in the Eastern Economic Corridor Zone. This was qualitative research using the focus group discussion method. The participants consisted of 50 vocational college students studying for a vocational certificate level or a higher vocational certificate level of vocational colleges in the Eastern Economic Corridor Zone. Fifty participants from 7 vocational colleges were purposive sampling. The focus group discussion guide was a research tool. 

The results showed that most students assessed their own listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills about foreign languages, especially the English language, at low to moderate levels. Their reading and writing skills were better than their listening and speaking skills because lacking direct experience in having a conversation with foreigners. When inquiring about their needs about foreign language knowledge, most students were aware of the importance of having foreign language skills and would have greater benefits in their job opportunities such as gaining high positions or high compensation. The students wanted ​​to be able to use foreign languages, particularly English language, for communicating in their daily life more than in business communication context only. The students preferred native- speaking teachers via edutainment.

Keywords: states, needs, foreign language knowledge, vocational college students, Eastern Economic Corridor Zone