A rising concern across higher education is clear: more students enroll in universities, yet many struggle with foundational reading and comprehension essential for college work. For Thai readers, this signals the need to strengthen literacy as a pillar of innovation and regional leadership.
Experts note that the problem extends beyond the United States. The debate centers on whether undergraduates can handle complex texts, analyze arguments, and articulate ideas in clear writing. While the data vary by country, the trend toward weaker literacy skills predates the pandemic and intensified during it. In Thailand, robust literacy is a prerequisite for sustaining a knowledge-based economy and competitive postsecondary education.
Recent U.S. surveys highlight gaps in basic reading and civics among college students, echoing broader literacy concerns. Media narratives stress that even high-achieving students can struggle to engage with readings or produce well-argued essays. These observations align with nationwide literacy data and declines in reading for pleasure, underscoring a shared global challenge.
Contributors to the issue include the shift to digital media and the speed of modern communication, which reduce time for sustained deep reading. Teacher preparation remains a critical lever; many programs emphasize evidence-based reading instruction but gaps persist. A growing body of research suggests that preparing future teachers to cultivate core literacy skills from early education through higher education yields long-term dividends.
At the university level, some cohorts arrive with less robust reading habits, making deep comprehension a cornerstone of learning, especially in fields like law, medicine, and the humanities. For Thailand, strengthening university-level literacy directly supports productivity, informed citizenship, and Southeast Asia’s regional leadership.
Thailand faces a similar literacy landscape. International assessments point to gaps in reading comprehension and scientific literacy among secondary and tertiary students. In recent PISA results, Thailand’s average reading score lagged behind the OECD average, with disparities linked to socioeconomic status. This context reinforces the case for systemic reforms that foster higher-order thinking and lifelong learning.
Teaching cultures that favor rote learning and standardized testing over open dialogue can hinder analytical reading needed for university success. Thai educators and policymakers have long debated how to balance rigorous assessment with opportunities for critical discussion, both in Bangkok and across the country.
Experts advocate multi-faceted strategies. Strengthening teacher preparation with a focus on the science of reading—from early education through higher education—promises long-term gains. Cultivating a culture of reading for pleasure, reinforcing home–school partnerships, and using digital tools for personalized comprehension practice are among the approaches explored globally. Edtech and AI-assisted literacy support show promise for improving engagement and understanding.
Thai universities could adapt these digital approaches, leveraging high smartphone penetration and a tech-savvy youth population to support literacy development. A prudent path combines improved assessment, enhanced teacher development, community involvement, and thoughtful integration of educational technology.
For Thai families and students, fostering a home environment that values reading and discussion can reinforce classroom learning. Encouraging engagement with quality long-form texts in both Thai and English supports academic success and readiness for a knowledge-based economy.
Closing the reading gap in higher education requires sustained, coordinated effort. Policymakers should prioritize funding for literacy research, teacher development, and scalable edtech solutions. The journey toward stronger university learning starts in classrooms, libraries, and communities across Thailand.