Coping with culture shock: a study of stressors, adjustments and stereotypes among chinese students at bangkok university

Language

In generally, those 10 respondents (in 30 up months group) are not bad in English.
They are able to deal with English matters such as exams, presentations, group projects, homework and so on. However, Thai language is still a problem to them. Normally, they are able to speak and listen in basic level and they can deal with daily matters in Thai.
But, they would like to learn more in Thai since many of them are looking for a part-time job in Bangkok. Also, some of them have gotten a job already, and they would like to improve their Thai for convenience in working. In an interview, a senior Chinese student mentioned as blow:


Thai language requirement is quite high in many companies. Normally, English, Thai and Chinese are required to Chinese applicants in Thailand. English and Chinese are able to meet requirements in general. But, Thai is not. Many companies require capacity in Thai reading; thus, many Chinese students are unqualified. However, many Chinese students are taking a part-time job as a Chinese language teacher. More or less, Thai is required at common level. Therefore, many Chinese students would like to improve their Thai language in listening, speaking, reading, even writing (Lijuan Shen).

Moreover, respondents would like to ask Thai friends if they need help in Thai.

For improving their Thai, some of them choose to study in language schools. In addition, they learn Thai from local Thais as well.

Cultural and religious knowledge

Lack of knowledge in local culture and religion are main stressors among Chinese students. For example, for those Chinese students who have a job, they do not know how to deal with their Thai boss based on Thai social rules. In university life, they communicate with local Thai students much more than junior students, they have to know more Thai cultural and religious rules since they are getting close with Thai classmates or friends. As a respondent mentioned below:


In the past, probably I did something which is not fit to Thai social rules. However, my mistake is forgiven by Thai friends since they know I am a new comer in Thailand. Now, I have stayed here for 4 years already, I have to avoid any behavior or word which may cause misunderstanding. I have to know more detailed Thai social rules to fit to Thai society (Sai Ma).

Also, respondents would like to know more local cultural and religious knowledge about Thailand. Their Thai friends help them a lot. Also, daily Chinese and English newspapers provide a lot of knowledge to Chinese students. In addition, respondents get related knowledge from local English websites and Chinese websites as well. Finally, they get some related knowledge from local Thais via conversation with them.