#ThaiEducation

A new wave of research spotlighting individuals with the rare dual gift of high intelligence and deep intuition has captured attention this week, exploring the unique behavioral patterns that set these minds apart from both their peers and the general population. While traditional thinkers thrive on logic and analytical clarity, and intuitive individuals sense truths amid ambiguity, a select few inhabit the productive overlap—navigating the world with the precision of a strategist and the sensitivities of a seer. This emerging focus, summarized in a recent article published on June 15 by VegOut Magazine, details the eight core behaviors that define this elusive cognitive synergy and carries significant implications for Thai education, workplace culture, and leadership development (VegOut Magazine).

The Mahajanaka Jataka, one of the Ten Great Birth Stories of the Buddha, stands out as a parable of unyielding perseverance—one that has had profound cultural, ethical, and even national symbolism for Thai people. Revisiting and analyzing this tale reveals not only its narrative depth but also the rich values, philosophical underpinnings, and continued relevance of its teachings for contemporary society.

The Mahajanaka Jataka recounts a past life of the Bodhisattva—the future Buddha—when he was born as Mahajanaka, a prince fated to suffer adversity and hardship before achieving greatness. The story begins with the Bodhisattva’s father, King of Mithila, losing his kingdom in a coup. Though his father is slain, Mahajanaka’s mother escapes to safety and gives birth to him in exile. Years later, driven by the determination to reclaim his rightful throne, Mahajanaka embarks on a fateful sea journey. His ship sinks, and Mahajanaka floats for seven days and seven nights without despair, continuously swimming with unwavering resolve in the boundless ocean. Only then does he meet the goddess Manimekhala, who rescues him and delivers him safely to Mithila, where he regains the throne and rules with wisdom and virtue. In time, Mahajanaka renounces the world, becoming an ascetic to pursue higher truth.

When exploring ancient Buddhist texts or receiving Buddhist education in Thailand, one frequently encounters the term “ชมพูทวีป” (“Jambudvipa”), often used to signal the setting of the Buddha’s life and teachings. But what was Jambudvipa really like as a living society? Understanding the nuances of this ancient social world deepens the comprehension of Buddhist philosophy and illustrates its enduring impact on Thai culture, morality, and social organization.

For Thai readers, the importance of Jambudvipa stems from both spiritual and historical roots. Nearly all Buddhist scriptures—including the Tripitaka used in Thailand—refer to Jambudvipa as the birthplace of the Buddha and the stage for the early Buddhist community. Thus, to grasp the origins, values, and evolution of Buddhism as practiced in Thailand today, it is essential to study the social characteristics of Jambudvipa (TruePlookpanya, Kasmonblog).

The concept of “วิธีสากลพุทธศาสนา,” or “Universal Methods in Buddhism,” has become an important topic for reflection in contemporary Thai society. This concept refers to the timeless, cross-cultural principles, methods, and teachings within Buddhism believed to be applicable to all people, regardless of background, nationality, or era. As Thai society becomes increasingly interconnected with the world, understanding what makes certain Buddhist practices ‘universal’ is vital for both preserving religious heritage and fostering harmony in a diverse, global community.

A growing body of scientific research and business insight, recently brought to international attention by a discussion of Steve Jobs’s educational philosophy, is challenging the longstanding belief that specialization is the key to success and happiness in education, career, and life. Instead, studies and expert perspectives suggest that those who embrace a wide range of interests and disciplines—so-called generalists—are often happier, more innovative, and better equipped to thrive in today’s fast-changing world Greater Good, Accessory To Success, Medium.

In a compelling narrative that is resonating with educators and families worldwide, a recent story from the Cap Times profiles a young student who overcame early struggles with English as a second language to earn admission to Harvard University—a feat achieved through perseverance, strategic educational support, and the transformative power of writing. Her journey, while individual in scope, shines a spotlight on the broader challenges and victories experienced by English language learners (ELLs) in education systems around the world, including in Thailand.

As Thai teens prepare to step outside the comforts of home and into the wider world, new research and global commentary are converging on a single point: academic success is no longer sufficient for thriving in adulthood. A recent article by The Times of India highlights eight vital life skills every teenager should master before leaving home, affirming a trend reflected in research across Asia and international educational frameworks (Times of India). These skills—ranging from practical habits like cooking and punctuality to deeper competencies such as emotional regulation and the art of graceful disagreement—are increasingly recognized as the bedrock of personal responsibility and social participation.

A new wave of research is transforming how we understand imagination—an essential human capacity behind innovation, memory, art, and problem-solving. According to a recent article in New Scientist, scientists now have five key tests that allow us to measure and appreciate the full scope of our imaginative powers, revealing why some people experience vibrant mental movies, while others may only summon faint outlines or abstract concepts when picturing memories or future scenarios (New Scientist).

Recent research is shining a spotlight on meditation for children, with evidence showing that just 10 minutes of mindful practice each morning could transform the well-being, emotional health, and learning capacity of young people. As Thai families and educators seek healthy, practical ways to foster resilience and academic success, morning meditation is emerging as a proven, accessible solution backed by growing international and local evidence (Times of India, wetheparents.org, Cleveland Clinic).

Why does this matter for Thai readers? The fast-evolving pressures of education, intense digital exposure, and post-pandemic anxieties have left many Thai parents, teachers, and policy-makers searching for gentle yet effective strategies to help children cope, thrive, and cultivate happiness. Meditation—firmly rooted in Thai Buddhist tradition—now finds new relevance, with clinical studies worldwide and in Thailand itself confirming its substantial benefits for today’s youth.

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly revolutionising industries, the chief product officer at Microsoft has urged students worldwide, including those in Thailand, to continue prioritising computer science and coding education. Her remarks challenge growing beliefs that software engineering may soon become obsolete due to AI’s accelerating capabilities, underscoring that computing skills remain essential for the next generation of Thai professionals.

The comments, made during a recent episode of “Lenny’s Podcast” and reported by Business Insider, directly refute notions that traditional programming will soon be unnecessary. The Microsoft executive, who oversees consumer and enterprise technology experiences, emphasized, “A lot of folks think about, ‘Oh, don’t bother studying computer science or coding is dead,’ and I just fundamentally disagree.”

As artificial intelligence floods our daily lives with rapid answers at the tap of a screen, a new wave of research is raising urgent questions: Is our dependence on instant knowledge in fact undermining the very wisdom that makes us human? A recent analysis published in Psychology Today offers a sobering examination of what we lose when we trade reflection for immediacy—and what Thai society must do to reclaim the deep thinking that underpins both personal and collective growth (Psychology Today).

As artificial intelligence continues to surge through everyday life and work, the question of student readiness for a tech-driven future is sparking urgent debate among educators, policymakers, and families alike. New research and policy discussions highlight how building robust computer science (CS) education is now not only desirable, but essential, for preparing Thai students to thrive in the age of AI and stay competitive on the global stage.

The explosion of artificial intelligence applications—from AI-powered language tools and automated learning systems to intelligent robotics and data-driven decision-making—brings profound implications for education. According to the latest commentary published in The Desert Sun (desertsun.com), computer science is foundational for understanding and navigating these changes. Advocates argue that just as learning to drive requires knowing what’s “under the hood,” the arrival of AI technology means every student needs to understand the mechanisms behind these systems—algorithms, data processing, and ethical dimensions included.

As demand surges for digital expertise worldwide, many Thai students and families are asking: “How rewarding is a degree in computer science?” New research and analysis underscore that while computer science may be among the toughest academic disciplines, it also offers among the broadest and most lucrative career opportunities, provided students are prepared for the mathematical rigor, problem-solving challenges, and constantly changing technological landscape. These insights emerge from a recent in-depth report by The Irish Times, with perspectives that resonate strongly for Thailand’s own education sector as computer science courses and digital careers are increasingly prioritised by policymakers (irishtimes.com).

A new article published by the Times of India shines a spotlight on eight unexpected behaviors that reveal when children are genuinely content, breaking the common misconception that happiness in kids is only expressed through smiles and laughter. These insights add to a growing understanding among parents, educators, and health professionals about the rich tapestry of emotional wellbeing in children—and why it matters for fostering healthier societies, especially in Thailand where parenting styles continually adapt to global trends (Times of India).

The future of education is being profoundly reshaped by artificial intelligence, with the latest bold prediction coming from the CEO of Duolingo: in an AI-dominated future, traditional schools may remain—but primarily as places for childcare rather than learning. This provocative vision, recently aired on the No Priors podcast and widely reported in international media (businessinsider.com), brings into focus pressing questions for Thai educators, parents, and policymakers about the evolving role of schools and teachers.

A groundbreaking new study has found that simply labeling content as generated by artificial intelligence can make people feel more creative themselves—a psychological effect that could carry big implications for education, business, and digital culture in Thailand. The research, published recently and summarized by PsyPost, suggests that Thai users exposed to “AI-labeled” works may experience an uptick in their own creative self-belief, potentially impacting everything from classroom engagement to workplace innovation.

A groundbreaking analysis of over 200 parent-child relationships has highlighted seven core parenting strategies found consistently among families whose children display high levels of emotional intelligence. In a contemporary world laser-focused on grades and achievement, these findings underscore the growing importance of emotional skills as the true secret edge for navigating life’s complexities, especially for Thai families balancing tradition with modern realities.

In recent years, educators and psychologists around the globe have turned more attention to how childhood emotional intelligence (EI)—the ability to perceive, manage, and express emotions effectively—shapes long-term success and wellbeing. According to a study detailed by the Thailand Tatler, the emotionally successful children in this diverse cohort almost universally had parents who put emotional development at the heart of their daily routines Thailand Tatler.

A new international brain imaging study has shed light on how sudden moments of insight—often called “aha! moments”—not only feel exhilarating, but also play a profound role in reshaping the brain and boosting memory. This research, led by neuroscientists from Duke University in the US and Humboldt and Hamburg Universities in Germany, provides compelling evidence that these flashes of creative discovery strengthen learning and may have important implications for educational practices, including those in Thailand (medicalxpress.com).

A groundbreaking new study has found that taking just a single computer science course during high school can boost Gen Z graduates’ future earnings by as much as 8%, no matter which career path they ultimately pursue. The research, recently reported by Fortune, underscores the economic and social value of digital literacy at a time when technological skills are increasingly in demand across all sectors.

For Thailand, where policymakers and educators are urgently looking for ways to prepare young people for a rapidly changing job market, these findings provide compelling evidence for reforming curricula to include computer science as a core subject. The economic significance is especially notable as young Thais come of age in an era of intense global competition and rising automation, and as the country pivots toward a digital economy under strategies such as Thailand 4.0 (fortune.com).

A recent article published on May 15, 2025, by the Times of India (“10 phrases that will help a kid stand up for themselves against bullies”) is causing a stir in education and parenting circles throughout Asia, including Thailand. The article highlights practical, research-backed language that children can use to assertively defend themselves when faced with bullying—a critical issue in Thai schools and society. Experts believe adopting these concise, respectful phrases could equip Thai youth with vital confidence-building tools, potentially improving school climate and wellbeing for thousands across the Kingdom.

A growing threat is facing families worldwide as law enforcement agencies, including the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), raise alarms about the sophisticated tactics used by online child predator “cults” to target vulnerable children. According to a recent alert highlighted in the Times of India, the FBI is urging parents to learn how to identify early warning signs that their children might be at risk, emphasizing the critical importance of proactive vigilance in the digital age (Times of India).

A renewed spotlight has been thrown on the distinct paths of Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Science (CS) following a recent exploration of these fields by academic experts. As technology-driven careers continue to dominate job markets in Thailand and worldwide, understanding the nuanced differences between CIS and CS is increasingly vital for students, employers, and policymakers seeking to build a digitally skilled workforce.

Both fields are essential to the digital economy, yet they offer contrasting areas of focus. According to recent research and educational overviews, Computer Science is primarily concerned with the theoretical underpinnings of computing, including algorithm development, programming languages, software design, and computational theory. In contrast, Computer Information Systems places greater emphasis on the practical application of technology in organizational contexts—think of CIS professionals as those who bridge the gap between business needs and technological solutions, specializing in systems analysis, IT project management, database administration, and information security as core components. In CIS programs, the curriculum often integrates business coursework alongside technology, reflecting the requirement for professionals who can translate business strategies into technological infrastructure.

As parents in Thailand prepare their children for adulthood, new international research highlights a crucial question: Beyond academic exams, what life skills should an 18-year-old truly possess to thrive independently? This issue has gained fresh urgency with the publication of a recent essay in The Globe and Mail, inspired by psychologist Martin Seligman’s findings on youth development and a practical checklist developed by a former Stanford University dean. The message is clear: Modern youth, whether in Canada or Thailand, risk missing key lessons in self-sufficiency if parents continue to do everything for them.

Prompt engineering, a specialized field that soared to prominence alongside the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT, is already facing an existential threat—one ushered in by the very technology it helped enable. According to recent analysis from Fast Company and commentary from industry leaders, prompt engineering is quickly being subsumed by the rapid evolution of AI models themselves, transforming from a discrete job to a skill that is quietly embedded in many traditional roles across a variety of industries.