Probably seems a daft question... as I have a Master's in Buddhist Studies from a UK university and a TEFL/TESOL cert locally, it seemed initially that in a Buddhist country I'd have to be content with teaching English. But having realised that Thais on the whole generally know very little about the philosophy, ethics, traditions and history of their own religion, maybe I should be thinking about teaching Buddhist Studies - in English, as I don't yet speak Thai. Is this absurd as it seems, or is there a role for someone like me here - at schools or universities? Or perhaps Farangs would like to learn summat about it from a fellow farang. Any ideas, suggestions?

Thanks in advance...

thinking about teaching Buddhist Studies - in English

Good luck with that! As you probably know, there are Buddhist Universities in Thailand and some opportunities are available to teach English there, but little opportunity to teach about Buddhism in English. There may be some scope for teaching Religious Studies at an international school, but you'd really need a teaching qualification as well as your masters. There may also be some scope for private tuition to westerners, as you say, or for students who want help with RS qualifications, eg an IGCSE or an AS/A2 in the subject.

having realised that Thais on the whole generally know very little about the philosophy, ethics, traditions and history of their own religion

I'm sure you're right! But, Thais naturally think they are 'experts' on the subject.

I studied Buddhism in English at Chula, so maybe you need to contact Thai universities who offer courses in Buddhism, Thai Culture and/or Thai Studies

Simon

thinking about teaching Buddhist Studies - in English

Good luck with that! As you probably know, there are Buddhist Universities in Thailand and some opportunities are available to teach English there, but little opportunity to teach about Buddhism in English. There may be some scope for teaching Religious Studies at an international school, but you'd really need a teaching qualification as well as your masters. There may also be some scope for private tuition to westerners, as you say, or for students who want help with RS qualifications, eg an IGCSE or an AS/A2 in the subject.

having realised that Thais on the whole generally know very little about the philosophy, ethics, traditions and history of their own religion

I'm sure you're right! But, Thais naturally think they are 'experts' on the subject.

Thanks, both of you - I'm off to Mahidol to discuss this.