cmiller11101

My husband and I are currently in the process of applying for his US green card. He has no records of vaccinations, but certainly he has been vaccinated as a child for various diseases. He was born and grew up in Bangkok. How might we go about tracking down these records? He thinks we should contact the hospital where he was born, but I am dubious. Both of his parents are deceased.

Thanks! 

Looking for an intensive IELTS course or tutor for a native Thai speaker. AUA Thailand keeps coming up, but they aren't offering classes right now for IELTS prep... and their hourly rate is almost 2,000 THB... seems a bit expensive, for English lessons. If anyone has suggestions, let me know.

-Chris

I'm looking for an experienced and honest general contractor to oversee a significant renovation of my condo. I live in Silom. Any suggestions or contacts would be appreciated. (Thai or English, both okay.)

-Chris

Hi. I understand that the Promotion of Non-Formal and Informal Education Act, B.E.2551 established the Office of the Non-Formal and Informal Education (ONIE) through which non-traditional students can obtain education in order to learn new skills or to carry forward their journey of lifelong learning. As I understand it, these programs are administered through local community learning centers which are somewhat overseen by provincial governments but ultimately administered and regulated by the Ministry of Education.

A Thai friend of mine dropped out of school after completing M3, but slightly over one year ago, at my urging, enrolled in a non-traditional program at the community education center in his area on a path to obtain M6 equivalency. The program only has class one day per week on Sunday which seems strange, but whatever.

I want to understand more about how this type of program works as I am helping him prepare to apply at universities abroad.

My questions:

• Does a student enrolled in such a program for M6 equivalency get the same diploma, degree, or certificate otherwise as a traditional M6 student in the end?
• What is the name of the high school diploma (in Thai) graduates of traditional M6 programs receive?
• He plans to apply to university outside of Thailand next year, so the degree he will need must be of high school equivalent. Does a program such as the one I described typically offer this?
• What kinds of questions should we ask the school to make sure he's on the right track? They seem to be pretty hands-off and nonchalant with this kind of stuff.

Finally, any tips or advice for Thai students preparing to apply to universities abroad would be appreciated. Things to keep in mind, helpful contacts, high school credential evaluation service recommendations, etc.

Thanks!

-Chris

Hi. I have been asked by a friend to help find and qualify an English language school or tutor here in Bangkok to prepare for English language standardized test (e.g., IELTS, Cambridge, TOFL, etc.). He is Thai, 18 years old, and is currently in M5, set to complete M6 equivalency next year via an alternative program administered by the Ministry of Education. He plans to apply to universities abroad where the main language for instruction will be English, so his English standardized test scores will be very important.

What criteria should I consider when evaluating an English language school or program? I have in mind to look for programs that specifically aim to improve test score results, or that teach methods useful for test taking, since that's the short-term goal here. I also have in mind to take a close look at the curriculum being used and try to understand the approach and philosophy of the school or teacher. Small group classes or 1-on-1 are both possible. Cost is obviously an important factor as well. Is there anything else I should keep in mind or be aware of?

Are both schools and individual teachers licensed? If so, by whom? Is there an easy way to confirm the validity of a teacher's or school's license?

Finally, of course, if you have any recommendations for instructors or schools in Bangkok or any advice on which curriculum or book is good for this type of program, let me know as well.

Thanks!

-Chris