Factors Affecting the Application of Policies to Promote Multiculturalism in ASEAN: Teachers in the Spirit of ASEAN School

Abstract

This qualitative research considered the roles of school teachers in the Spirit of ASEAN following the project of the Office of the Basic Education Commission. It also studied effective factors in the promotion of ASEAN multiculturalism and the application of policies as guidelines for learning. The research methodology included content analysis, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and workshops. Results showed that the ASEAN curriculum, English learning, multiculturalism, ASEAN languages and information, and communication technology were part of the promotion of multiculturalism in the Spirit of ASEAN. Factors that affected the promotion of multiculturalism in ASEAN included the approach to study, methods of teaching, techniques of teaching, curriculum, and teaching materials. The ways to help these policies were by successful adaption in schools, teachers seeking knowledge and integrating content about races or cultures in various subjects, creation of new knowledge, reduction of prejudice, teaching with equity, and organizing suitable environments and/or atmospheres in the schools.