Graduate School of Education : Workshop on Interpersonal Relations and Internship Seminar.

Dean, Dr. Methi's speech at closing ceremony : February 26,2000

At the start of the proceedings this morning we distributed copies of our plan for the “Workshop on Inter-personal Relations and Internship Seminar” wherein our reasons and the objectives for organising today’s events were clearly outlined. At the end of the day now I feel happy to observe that most of our expectations were realised. Interpersonal relations was the theme of the lecture and Professor Gedoliahu Hare1 has ably and adequately dealt with the issues and problems of working behaviours and the ways in which conflicts and clash of interests can be avoided. Those working together at a site or venue must perform their functions and discharge their duties smoothly and harmoniously to achieve our common objectives. If there is any misunderstanding or friction between individuals or groups within an institution, operational processes and procedures will be hindered and there is even a possibility that some people may unwittingly be working at crosspurposes. So, as I said all these points about interpersonal relationship were covered in the lecture and in our discussions on dissemination of knowledge on how to analyse problem areas and observe special traits and characteristics of human behaviour.

I would like to deal briefly with the looming challenges for those engaged in the field of education. Perhaps most of you are aware that the landmark National Education Act was framed and promulgated in 1999 and Section 10 ibid stipulates that all Thai citizens are entitled to the rights and opportunities to receive basic education for a duration of 12 years. What this means in terms of the increase in student population, faculty rosters, school sites, buildings, equipment etc is simply mind boggling. And Section 52 of the same Act requires that teachers and administrators of educational institutions shall have professional licenses as provided by the law. The question of professional license affects the School of Education directly as those holding degrees in education and who have studied such subjects as prin-ciples of teacher education, method of teaching, educational psychology etc. are bound to be the first category to qualify for and earn the coveted license. We are grateful that the Ministry of University Affairs has placed the trust in us to teach pedagogy and produce professional teachers under M.Ed. Program. I would like to take this opportunity to inform you that the Graduate Diploma in Teaching Profession which is a one year program will be offered next year. Whoever finished this thesis program will be qualified to teach according to the National Education Act 1999. It is therefore our paramount responsibility to justify the Government’s trust and organise courses that will meet the highest standards of excellence and perfection. In this sense the members of Class I&II of our M.Ed. program are pioneers and the success of the internship course they have just completed is a feather in their caps that will lead to completion of their studies and graduation.

My sincere thanks to Assumption University, Rev.Bro. Rector Dr.P. Martin Komolmas and Rev.Bro.Vice Rector Dr. Bancha Saenghiran for their understanding, encouragement and support.

Prof.Dr.Harel's lecture on Interpersonal Relations.