E-learning in the Thai context : cultural and pedagogical issues amidst the implementation of new technologies

E-Ieaming is a very topical much misused term with many countries both developed and developing rushing to embrace this new educational technology. Perceived benefits in cost of delivery and educational outcomes are often the driving force. Thailand is a country with unique, strong cultural traditions and her peoples have largely Buddhist religious beliefs. These two factors are interlocked and affect all aspects of Thai life, including education. Traditional Thai education has evolved to complement and sustain this monoculture. To date there has only been limited research into e-Iearning in Thailand and while the promoiion of computer technologies in the education system and society is increasing, there is no research that has been undertaken in Thailand to examine the effect of e-Ieaming on Thai culture