FOYER: The Journal of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education

Socratic Questioning:

Seksan Sooksena — 2025-09-22

Although Socratic questioning emerged more than 2,500 years ago, it remains highly relevant in contemporary education. It refers to a systematic process of inquiry aimed at exploring ideas, analyzing concepts, and critically examining assumptions through rational dialogue between learners and teachers. The method consists of seven types of questions: 1) questions for comprehension of the initial question 2) questions for clarification 3) questions to determine reasons and evidence 4) questions for exploring viewpoints 5) questions to determine implications and consequences 6) questions meant to evaluate assumption and 7) questions to determine goals and purposes. Due to the nature of these questions being the stimulation of systematic thinking, Socratic questioning is particularly suited for fostering critical thinking processes and promoting rational communication in present-day classrooms. Teachers can adapt and apply this approach during the introductory, instructional, and concluding phases of various instructional activities.

Jokowi’s Powers and Shadow Party for Political Dynasty:

Fikri Gali Fernando Holqi — 2025-09-22

This research analyzes President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) political power and the role of a shadow party in establishing a political dynasty during the 2024 Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections. The study employs a qualitative method using a phenomenological approach. Data is categorized into primary and secondary sources. Primary data includes interviews and observations, while secondary data comprises legal documents and literature relevant to the study's focus. Data analysis is conducted using George Soros’ Shadow Party theory. The findings are drawn through an inductive approach, utilizing generalization and simplification. The study reveals that Jokowi strategically leveraged his authority as the President of Indonesia (2014–2019 and 2019–2024) to support his son Gibran’s candidacy in the 2024 elections. He established a shadow party, Projo (Pro Jokowi), and orchestrated a multi-party coalition that evolved from the Indonesian Forward Coalition (KIM). Jokowi’s influence as the incumbent president enabled him to garner support from key political figures, including Gerindra Party Chairman Prabowo Subianto and Golkar Party Chairman Airlangga Hartarto, both of whom served in his cabinet. Jokowi’s popular image as a humble and approachable leader contributed to associating Gibran with similar traits. However, this coalition has resulted in two significant implications: the emergence of charismatic authoritarian leadership and internal conflicts among coalition parties.

Using Generative AI for Enhancing Learning about the Setting and Ambiance in The Traibhumikatha

Thirawat Siburom — 2025-09-22

This research aims (1) to study the effects of using generative AI to enhance learning about setting and ambiance in Traibhumikatha, and (2) to explore students' feelings and opinions toward the use of generative AI in enhancing their experience in learning about the setting and ambiance in Traibhumikatha. The sample consisteds of 35 Mathayom 6 (equivalent Grade 12), students selected through purposive sampling. This research was conducted as collaborative action research following the PAOR cycle. The instruments used were a checklist and semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed and are presented through descriptive analysis, percentages, and content analysis. The research findings revealed that: (1) 91% of students were able to select words, sentences, and phrases from the given content to generate setting and ambiance that were 86% consistent with the given message, while 69% and 14% could describe the setting and ambiance at excellent and good levels, respectively; (2) generative AI impressed students, providing enjoyment and excitement, allowing them to visualize and materialize their thoughts and imagination in a novel way. Some students were inspired to generate images using prompts beyond the lesson content.

Belief in the ritual of paying homage to Kru Mor Lam Mang Tap Tao Tai Loei

Wirachai Kaeomat — 2025-09-22

This research aims to study beliefs in the ritual of paying homage to teachers of the Morlam Maeng Tap Tao Tai Loei by using qualitative research methods. The research instruments consist of interview forms and focus group discussions. Data were collected from documents and through fieldwork with the target group who were experts, practitioners, and those involved in the beliefs in the ritual of paying homage to the teacher of the Morlam Maeng Tap Tao Tai Loei in the folk performance culture. The data were analyzed using a descriptive analysis method. It was found that the beliefs surrounding the ritual of paying homage to teachers of the Morlam Maeng Tap Tao Tai Lei group is a folk performing art. The performers of the ritual are usually people who have knowledge of the traditions and culture of the Morlam Maeng Tap Tao Tai Lei group. They are artists who have experience in performing the ritual of paying homage to the teachers. Preparing the area for the ceremony, preparing the offerings, and inviting participants to pay homage to the teachers is a way of showing respect to the teachers who teach the performing arts of the Morlam Maeng Tap Tao group. There is also a belief in the prohibition of standing during the ritual of paying homage to the teachers, prohibiting worship with red flowers, and prohibiting moving of the offerings, which is an expression of disrespect for sacred objects.

Sūkara-maddava in the Perspective of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism

Apirak Namwicha — 2025-09-22

This research article aims to examine the meaning and characteristics of sukaramaddava as depicted in the texts of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. A document-based research approach was employed, drawing from the Tipitaka and related academic works. The findings indicate that, from the perspectives of both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, sukaramaddava carries four primary meanings: (1) pork, (2) bamboo shoots or mushrooms, (3) cooked rice prepared with pañcakkhosa (five delicacies), and (4) a longevity elixir. Both schools share the view that sukaramaddava possesses medicinal properties as a longevity elixir that Cunda purposefully prepared for the Buddha and his attendant monks, using a special medicinal formula specifically for the Buddha in hopes of alleviating his illness. However, the two traditions have some differing perspectives. The Theravada tradition holds that the elixir was prepared using pork that passed through a chemical process called rasayana, whereas the Mahayana tradition maintains that the elixir contained herbal ingredients that bear a name that is a homonym with the word pork.

Interpretation:

Weeranan Damrongsakul — 2025-09-22

Access to knowledge through museums was an investigation of the roles and functions of contemporary Thai museums and learning centers in three locations: Museum Siam in Bangkok, Sirindhorn Museum in Kalasin Province, and primary schools in Uthai Thani Province.The study methods were qualitative research and action research. The data were collected from related documents, interviews, conversations, and observations. The result of the study showed that a museum is a public cultural space where visitors join in shared experiences. They can learn about history, memories, cultures, and meanings of many subjects by various interpretations. The exhibitions and a variety of activities promote creative learning in people regardless of sex or age. These experiences are promoted by museum or learning center, etc. Learning by experience brings about creativity and encourages change of members in the community. It builds knowledge, skills, attitudes, values, emotions, and beliefs and is a learning process which is individual and varies from person to person. The study also found that organizing learning activities also encourages visitors’ skills, preparing them to live in the rapid changes in Thai society.