A Coaching System to Improve Mathematics Achievement Through Development of Teacher Competencies

Abstract

The modern era brings with it increasingly rapid advancements to which societies must adapt. Educational institutions worldwide face great competition and must accept the necessity to adapt and develop in order to meet current standards and needs. Thailand finds itself lagging behind not only western educational systems but also those of its Asian neighbors, many of which have achieved great success on the international stage. Much effort had been directed toward reforming the Thai educational system, but thus far very little progress has been made as these efforts largely fail to address the tendency to dogmatically defer to antiquated, rote philosophies and pedagogy. Customary to the country’s professional development of teachers are myriad short-term and one-shot activities lacking in necessary long-term vision and follow-up. More in-depth means of professional development, such as coaching, have not been widespread in their implementation. However, this is not due to any inherent failing in these processes but rather in the perception that they are difficult, or even impossible, to sustainably put into practice. Given a properly designed and, more importantly, properly supported system, coaching can indeed be a means through which institutions can strengthen the direct conduit through which they develop successful students and attain desired standards of performance and achievement, their teachers. Mathematics is regarded as a gateway towards understanding abstract concepts and critical thinking, skills valuable in mastering a number of subjects. Therefore, an effective coaching system coupled with a focus on mathematics can enable teachers to guide students to become more proficient learners. Using such a system, Bangpleepattanasuksalai School in Samutprakan, Thailand, was able to foster notable student achievement in mathematics by devising and putting into practice a coaching system to improve instructional practices and maintain high standards by developing its teachers’ competencies.