Working locally as a true professional : case studies in the development of local curriculum

Abstract

This article investigates the dynamic overall picture concerning the development of local curriculum in Thailand through action research conducted by 27 Thai elementary school teachers in three private schools in Fang District, Chiang Mai Province. This was the teachers' first experience with action research. The article examines the following questions: ‘How do teachers develop local curriculum through action research?’ and ‘What is the impact of action research on the professional learning of teachers?’ The field research methodology was primarily based on participant observation and informal interviews. The findings illustrate the various factors impacting on the development of local curriculum in Thailand through the action research of the teachers. They also shed light on the main role of the researcher in monitoring the progress of the project and acting as facilitator. The article also discusses the positive impact of the action research process on the professional learning of the teachers and reveals the unique cycle form of the action research process of Thai teachers.