Cultivating the Learning Space of Cultural Diversity Through Third Space Concept

Abstract

University students in one of northern Thailand’s institutes of higher education often have distorted and shallow understandings of the cultural, social, and gender differences among their fellow students. This leads to misunderstandings and sometimes open disrespect. To prevent and resolve such problems, we need to open cultural space in their learning process. This article presents research on an attempt to create a “third space” of culture in the university classroom (outside of student’s individual space, or the “second space” of an “other.”) The “third space” refers to an area of knowledge where students value, accept and respect cultural diversity. Through learning photography, students bring into question and criticism their representations and the context surrounding them. This research uses qualitative research methods, study from documents, Interviews, and observation combined with active research to gather data. By creating cultural space to gain understanding and acceptance of cultural differences in the classroom, students could take advantage of these valuable differences in their everyday lives. Creating a cultural space in the university can be implemented through a variety of learning processes, requiring continuation at regular intervals.