Abstract TRRT 2024 Dr. Sumonmarn Chaneam
Boosting English Language Skills in Talented Students with Engaging Activities: A Case Study of Science Classrooms in University-Affiliated School Project (Silpakorn University - Princess Sirindhorn's College)
Sumonmarn Chaneam
Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, 73000
Abstract
Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University has participated in the “Science Classroom in University-Affiliated School Project (SCiUS)” supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). This project involves collaboration between Silpakorn University (SU) and Princess Sirindhorn's College (PSC) in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, known as “SCiUS SU-PSC”. As part of the program, the distinguished high school students in this project have the opportunity to study science, mathematics, computer science, technology, and English at the Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University. One of the primary aims of the SU-PSC SCiUS project is to enhance students' capability at an international level. Gifted students often benefit from more challenging and engaging content and activities. To achieve this, the program offers scientific English classes, overseen by the Faculty of Arts, Silpakorn University, as well as exchange programs that facilitate teaching and learning with international specialists. The SCiUS SU-PSC program also incorporates project-based learning, which encourages independent or small-group research on topics of interest, in which students write detailed reports or give presentations in English at the end. Students have the opportunity to attend international conferences, where they can discuss their work, receive feedback, and further develop their research. Additionally, students participate in on-site visits as part of an overseas field trip. This activity excites and highly interests the students, who eagerly anticipate it. They propose places they want to visit and activities they want to engage in. The program includes tours of university campuses and research institutions, leveraging the faculty and university's MOU partnerships. Every activity is evaluated in terms of both quality and quantity. Furthermore, students are monitored through standardized English tests in grade 10 and grade 12, serving as one mechanism to measure the effectiveness of our procedures.
Keywords: English language skills, SCiUS, Silpakorn University (SU), Princess Sirindhorn's College (PSC)