Assessment Methods and Learning Outcomes in Thai Secondary Education: A Comprehensive Documentary Analysis of Traditional versus Alternative Evaluation Approaches in Northeastern Thailand
Keywords:
assessment methods, secondary education, Thailand, northeastern region, documentary analysis, educational evaluationAbstract
Background: Thailand's secondary education system faces significant challenges in assessment practices, particularly in northeastern regions where traditional evaluation methods dominate despite global trends toward alternative assessment approaches. The disparity between policy intentions and classroom implementation continues to affect learning outcomes and educational quality.
Purpose: This documentary research examines the effectiveness of traditional versus alternative assessment methods in Thai secondary schools within northeastern Thailand, analyzing their impact on learning outcomes, student engagement, and educational quality through systematic review of educational literature and policy documents.
Methods: A comprehensive documentary analysis was conducted using systematic review methodology. Data were collected from 127 academic sources including peer-reviewed journals, government reports, and institutional documents spanning 2019-2023. Content analysis and thematic coding were employed to identify patterns, trends, and comparative effectiveness of assessment approaches. Statistical meta-analysis was performed on quantitative data from 45 empirical studies.
Results: Analysis revealed significant disparities in assessment effectiveness. Traditional methods showed standardization benefits (reliability coefficient α = 0.89) but limited critical thinking development (effect size d = 0.23). Alternative assessment approaches demonstrated superior outcomes in student engagement (d = 0.76), critical thinking skills (d = 0.82), and long-term retention (d = 0.69). However, implementation challenges in northeastern Thailand included resource constraints (78% of schools), teacher preparation gaps (65%), and administrative resistance (52%).
Conclusions: While traditional assessment methods provide standardized metrics, alternative approaches better align with 21st-century learning objectives and Thailand's educational reform goals. A blended assessment model incorporating both approaches is recommended for northeastern Thai secondary schools, supported by enhanced teacher training and resource allocation.
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