An exciting and thought-provoking journey
My journey throughout this module has been both academically and mentally stimulating. From the very first week, we have explored a variety of topics, including the universities, and higher education. Our field trip took us on an exciting adventure to different cities and temples, where we learned about the rich history and development of Thailand over the years. Kasetsart University was a real highlight for me, as we discovered the affordable shops and cafes available to students.
During week 3, we tackled the local and global dimensions of higher education. I found George Ritzer’s theory of McDonaldization to be particularly fascinating. We learned that modern society and fast-food chains like McDonald’s share similarities in terms of efficiency, calculability, predictability, and control. Although these principles have become integrated into many aspects of society, including education, healthcare, and employment, we also explored how Thailand’s unique customs, diverse culture, and small businesses counterbalanced the potential effects of McDonaldization, highlighting the interaction between globalization and cultural identity.
Our field trip to Thailand was an incredible experience that gave us insights into criminology. From cultural values and the legal system to economic disparities and tourism impacts, we delved deep into the criminological issues that Thailand faces, such as drug-related offences, human trafficking, and fraud that often target travellers. It was eye-opening to see how the country’s strict regulations regarding tourism, including dress codes when visiting temples, play such a crucial role in showing respect for their culture. I cannot stress enough how important it is to dress appropriately when visiting temples to ensure entry to the tourist areas.
Overall, this module has been an exciting and thought-provoking journey. I have learned so much and am eager to continue exploring new topics.
Nikolett Bencze