Guidelines on Learning Management with Radical-Based Instruction and the Form-Meaning Teaching Method for International School in Thailand

Abstract

Chinese character acquisition in Thailand’s international schools presents both opportunities and areas for growth, particularly in supporting long-term retention, commonly referred to as Character Amnesia. While a strong majority of educators recognize the value of radical awareness, there is still room to expand the use of analytical instructional strategies, as conventional rote-learning practices continue to be commonly applied. This study, employing a mixed-methods design with 46 participants (teachers, experts, parents, and students), highlights promising directions for enhancing literacy development through more structured and intentional pedagogical approaches. To support this advancement, the researcher proposes a 4-Step Strategic Framework: 1). Radical Selection and Introduction, 2). Form–Meaning Association Activities, 3). Character Construction and Application, and 4). Cultural and Contextual Practice. These guidelines, validated with an IOC score of 1.00, are intended to empower educators to become strategic structural decoders. This approach encourages a shift from repetitive practice toward logic-based mastery, ultimately fostering deeper understanding and more sustainable learning outcomes for primary(grade 3) students.