163 replies to this topic
Posted 2011-11-21 16:59:50
 MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 11:30:37, said:
Khun Jean, on 2011-11-21 09:16:19, said:
If you want to learn at Walen and don't need a ED visa you could start with 60 lessons.
http://www.thaiwalen.com/prices.php
I must say the picture of the teachers is making me reconsider taking lessons at Walen.
Young and pretty looking is not a guarantee for good lessons, more like eyecandy which can be distracting to say the least. 
They are very good at teaching Thai, just try for free first and talk to students.
On your www site where you present the teachers/instructors I find only photos, names and nicknames,
no presentation of CV/academic qualifications.
Posted 2011-11-21 22:38:01
melvinmelvin, on 2011-11-21 16:59:50, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 11:30:37, said:
Khun Jean, on 2011-11-21 09:16:19, said:
If you want to learn at Walen and don't need a ED visa you could start with 60 lessons.
http://www.thaiwalen.com/prices.php
I must say the picture of the teachers is making me reconsider taking lessons at Walen.
Young and pretty looking is not a guarantee for good lessons, more like eyecandy which can be distracting to say the least.
They are very good at teaching Thai, just try for free first and talk to students.
On your www site where you present the teachers/instructors I find only photos, names and nicknames,
no presentation of CV/academic qualifications.
Walen trains teachers in-house. We have our own way of teaching so we cannot find any teaching qualifications from other institutions that would be useful to us. We do it the Walen way.
Posted 2011-11-21 22:46:51
Paangjang, on 2011-11-21 13:06:42, said:
I studied with Walen in Phuket for 6 months earlier this year. I could already speak quite a good level of Thai (best in our level 1 class) Although i could not read anything. After 6 months of studying, i can now read just fine, i cant write yet as i didn't take the course long enough. But overall i was very impressed with the service of Walen. Both the teaching and the visa assistance.
However i do agree with Tod-daniels. Sorry Mac but Walen doest really help to teach speaking. I understand the method of reading then writing and learning to speak as you go along. But honestly, my vocabulary hasn't really increased though out the 6 month course. Don't get me wrong, the reading teaching method is very good. Me and my fellow students learned to read in no time.
I remember going out into town with one of my class mates for a beer one night in Patong. He could read all the signs, license plates, menu's, anything, impressive! But when he tried to order food in Thai he struggled. Wasn't an issue for me as i could already speak and im very happy that i can now read. My friend wasn't so impressed with the course though. He had studied for the same amount of time as me, could read to exactly the same level but couldn't even talk enough to explain to the taxi driver where he stayed.
For me, i would say that Walen was very helpful. I learned what i wanted to (reading) and the visa service was great. However if you can't speak a reasonable level of Thai already, the course might not be the right method for you...
All the teachers in the school also agreed with us when we explained this to them.
So this is truly amazing. I will have to show this post to our teachers in Phuket, first thing tomorrow. Seems the problem would be that during lessons some students are allowed to read answers from the book which is absolute no no, they should answer on their own. If that is the case then the problem lies with the teachers not the method. Some students are so good at reading Thai that despite encouragements to answer on their own they will keep reading the answers form the book. It just shows you how hard it is to get people follow the instructions. So easy to blame later, isn't it? Sure guys, if you will just keep reading answers from your book (by the way the book is totally in Thai, no transliteration whatsoever) you will not learn to speak, you will just become perfect at understanding and reading Thai.
Walen School - the system works!
Posted 2011-11-22 00:48:37
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 22:38:01, said:
melvinmelvin, on 2011-11-21 16:59:50, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 11:30:37, said:
Khun Jean, on 2011-11-21 09:16:19, said:
If you want to learn at Walen and don't need a ED visa you could start with 60 lessons.
http://www.thaiwalen.com/prices.php
I must say the picture of the teachers is making me reconsider taking lessons at Walen.
Young and pretty looking is not a guarantee for good lessons, more like eyecandy which can be distracting to say the least.
They are very good at teaching Thai, just try for free first and talk to students.
On your www site where you present the teachers/instructors I find only photos, names and nicknames,
no presentation of CV/academic qualifications.
Walen trains teachers in-house. We have our own way of teaching so we cannot find any teaching qualifications from other institutions that would be useful to us. We do it the Walen way.
Fair enough. To me this sounds pretty close to saying that the teachers do not have any academic qualifications.
You mention teaching qualifications but a good CV and academic qualifications is not necessarily same same as teaching qualifications.
But even so, they can be OK instructors without any degrees.
Edited by melvinmelvin, 2011-11-22 00:55:17.
Posted 2011-11-22 02:38:41
They all have bachelor degrees if that helps. The best way is to meet them, talk to them, sit in their lessons, talk to students. They know what they are doing. You will speak and read Thai in no time flat.
Posted 2011-11-22 02:40:20
I forgot, they are ED visa experts too in case someone needed one. This fact is undisputed when it comes to Walen school.
Posted 2011-11-22 11:03:32
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 22:46:51, said:
Paangjang, on 2011-11-21 13:06:42, said:
I studied with Walen in Phuket for 6 months earlier this year. I could already speak quite a good level of Thai (best in our level 1 class) Although i could not read anything. After 6 months of studying, i can now read just fine, i cant write yet as i didn't take the course long enough. But overall i was very impressed with the service of Walen. Both the teaching and the visa assistance.
However i do agree with Tod-daniels. Sorry Mac but Walen doest really help to teach speaking. I understand the method of reading then writing and learning to speak as you go along. But honestly, my vocabulary hasn't really increased though out the 6 month course. Don't get me wrong, the reading teaching method is very good. Me and my fellow students learned to read in no time.
I remember going out into town with one of my class mates for a beer one night in Patong. He could read all the signs, license plates, menu's, anything, impressive! But when he tried to order food in Thai he struggled. Wasn't an issue for me as i could already speak and im very happy that i can now read. My friend wasn't so impressed with the course though. He had studied for the same amount of time as me, could read to exactly the same level but couldn't even talk enough to explain to the taxi driver where he stayed.
For me, i would say that Walen was very helpful. I learned what i wanted to (reading) and the visa service was great. However if you can't speak a reasonable level of Thai already, the course might not be the right method for you...
All the teachers in the school also agreed with us when we explained this to them.
So this is truly amazing. I will have to show this post to our teachers in Phuket, first thing tomorrow. Seems the problem would be that during lessons some students are allowed to read answers from the book which is absolute no no, they should answer on their own. If that is the case then the problem lies with the teachers not the method. Some students are so good at reading Thai that despite encouragements to answer on their own they will keep reading the answers form the book. It just shows you how hard it is to get people follow the instructions. So easy to blame later, isn't it? Sure guys, if you will just keep reading answers from your book (by the way the book is totally in Thai, no transliteration whatsoever) you will not learn to speak, you will just become perfect at understanding and reading Thai.
Walen School - the system works!
What do you find "truly amazing" about my post? Thought it was a pretty standard post, nothing that hasn't been said a million times before. I thought you would agree with me that the method doest teach you to speak,but read only. Seems clear to everyone. Don't you ever ask the students or teachers how the method of "you read then i read" is going? Don't you ever sit in the class and see them trying to read from the book instead of answering a straight question. Alot of the students still haven't been taught how to say "Hello, how are you?"
If you can't speak Thai then you can't answer the questions. You have to read it from the book. They even show you where to read from.
The teachers only speak Thai so if you don't know what the question is or means, you have to ask. Your not taught the translation naturally without having to ask.
Would it not be a great idea for the teacher to have an extra totally different question book from the students, with no answer book. That way the students wouldn't be able to just read the answers from the book. Wow, now that system would be "truly amazing" The students would actually learn to speak Thai instead of answering questions by reading the answer. How can it work when the question is next to the answer. It's a good way to learn to read (listening whilst reading) I wouldn't disagree with that. But theres no way this ever helps you to speak. Just ask the teachers or the students. They all agree.
And yes, it can be difficult when you get to immigration to extend your ED visa. He only speaks Thai, like a test. Wheres that book when you really need it?
Your right, they are good with the visa's, after plenty of asking they do get around to doing it for you. Oh and make sure you get plenty of photo's, they lost my 12 so i had to drive back again once i'd paid (again) for 12 more.
Posted 2011-11-22 11:10:05
Paangjang, on 2011-11-22 11:03:32, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 22:46:51, said:
Paangjang, on 2011-11-21 13:06:42, said:
I studied with Walen in Phuket for 6 months earlier this year. I could already speak quite a good level of Thai (best in our level 1 class) Although i could not read anything. After 6 months of studying, i can now read just fine, i cant write yet as i didn't take the course long enough. But overall i was very impressed with the service of Walen. Both the teaching and the visa assistance.
However i do agree with Tod-daniels. Sorry Mac but Walen doest really help to teach speaking. I understand the method of reading then writing and learning to speak as you go along. But honestly, my vocabulary hasn't really increased though out the 6 month course. Don't get me wrong, the reading teaching method is very good. Me and my fellow students learned to read in no time.
I remember going out into town with one of my class mates for a beer one night in Patong. He could read all the signs, license plates, menu's, anything, impressive! But when he tried to order food in Thai he struggled. Wasn't an issue for me as i could already speak and im very happy that i can now read. My friend wasn't so impressed with the course though. He had studied for the same amount of time as me, could read to exactly the same level but couldn't even talk enough to explain to the taxi driver where he stayed.
For me, i would say that Walen was very helpful. I learned what i wanted to (reading) and the visa service was great. However if you can't speak a reasonable level of Thai already, the course might not be the right method for you...
All the teachers in the school also agreed with us when we explained this to them.
So this is truly amazing. I will have to show this post to our teachers in Phuket, first thing tomorrow. Seems the problem would be that during lessons some students are allowed to read answers from the book which is absolute no no, they should answer on their own. If that is the case then the problem lies with the teachers not the method. Some students are so good at reading Thai that despite encouragements to answer on their own they will keep reading the answers form the book. It just shows you how hard it is to get people follow the instructions. So easy to blame later, isn't it? Sure guys, if you will just keep reading answers from your book (by the way the book is totally in Thai, no transliteration whatsoever) you will not learn to speak, you will just become perfect at understanding and reading Thai.
Walen School - the system works!
What do you find "truly amazing" about my post? Thought it was a pretty standard post, nothing that hasn't been said a million times before. I thought you would agree with me that the method doest teach you to speak,but read only. Seems clear to everyone. Don't you ever ask the students or teachers how the method of "you read then i read" is going? Don't you ever sit in the class and see them trying to read from the book instead of answering a straight question. Alot of the students still haven't been taught how to say "Hello, how are you?"
If you can't speak Thai then you can't answer the questions. You have to read it from the book. They even show you where to read from.
The teachers only speak Thai so if you don't know what the question is or means, you have to ask. Your not taught the translation naturally without having to ask.
Would it not be a great idea for the teacher to have an extra totally different question book from the students, with no answer book. That way the students wouldn't be able to just read the answers from the book. Wow, now that system would be "truly amazing" The students would actually learn to speak Thai instead of answering questions by reading the answer. How can it work when the question is next to the answer. It's a good way to learn to read (listening whilst reading) I wouldn't disagree with that. But theres no way this ever helps you to speak. Just ask the teachers or the students. They all agree.
And yes, it can be difficult when you get to immigration to extend your ED visa. He only speaks Thai, like a test. Wheres that book when you really need it?
Your right, they are good with the visa's, after plenty of asking they do get around to doing it for you. Oh and make sure you get plenty of photo's, they lost my 12 so i had to drive back again once i'd paid (again) for 12 more.
There are hundreds of other students who do not have this problem and can speak very well. But if students are allowed to read answers from the book the progress will be slower. So you confirmed that you were just answering by reading from the book, now I understand where is the problem. Thank you for letting me know.
Edited by MacWalen, 2011-11-22 11:18:46.
Posted 2011-11-22 17:56:26
Paangjang, on 2011-11-22 11:03:32, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 22:46:51, said:
Paangjang, on 2011-11-21 13:06:42, said:
I studied with Walen in Phuket for 6 months earlier this year. I could already speak quite a good level of Thai (best in our level 1 class) Although i could not read anything. After 6 months of studying, i can now read just fine, i cant write yet as i didn't take the course long enough. But overall i was very impressed with the service of Walen. Both the teaching and the visa assistance.
However i do agree with Tod-daniels. Sorry Mac but Walen doest really help to teach speaking. I understand the method of reading then writing and learning to speak as you go along. But honestly, my vocabulary hasn't really increased though out the 6 month course. Don't get me wrong, the reading teaching method is very good. Me and my fellow students learned to read in no time.
I remember going out into town with one of my class mates for a beer one night in Patong. He could read all the signs, license plates, menu's, anything, impressive! But when he tried to order food in Thai he struggled. Wasn't an issue for me as i could already speak and im very happy that i can now read. My friend wasn't so impressed with the course though. He had studied for the same amount of time as me, could read to exactly the same level but couldn't even talk enough to explain to the taxi driver where he stayed.
For me, i would say that Walen was very helpful. I learned what i wanted to (reading) and the visa service was great. However if you can't speak a reasonable level of Thai already, the course might not be the right method for you...
All the teachers in the school also agreed with us when we explained this to them.
So this is truly amazing. I will have to show this post to our teachers in Phuket, first thing tomorrow. Seems the problem would be that during lessons some students are allowed to read answers from the book which is absolute no no, they should answer on their own. If that is the case then the problem lies with the teachers not the method. Some students are so good at reading Thai that despite encouragements to answer on their own they will keep reading the answers form the book. It just shows you how hard it is to get people follow the instructions. So easy to blame later, isn't it? Sure guys, if you will just keep reading answers from your book (by the way the book is totally in Thai, no transliteration whatsoever) you will not learn to speak, you will just become perfect at understanding and reading Thai.
Walen School - the system works!
What do you find "truly amazing" about my post? Thought it was a pretty standard post, nothing that hasn't been said a million times before. I thought you would agree with me that the method doest teach you to speak,but read only. Seems clear to everyone. Don't you ever ask the students or teachers how the method of "you read then i read" is going? Don't you ever sit in the class and see them trying to read from the book instead of answering a straight question. Alot of the students still haven't been taught how to say "Hello, how are you?"
If you can't speak Thai then you can't answer the questions. You have to read it from the book. They even show you where to read from.
The teachers only speak Thai so if you don't know what the question is or means, you have to ask. Your not taught the translation naturally without having to ask.
Would it not be a great idea for the teacher to have an extra totally different question book from the students, with no answer book. That way the students wouldn't be able to just read the answers from the book. Wow, now that system would be "truly amazing" The students would actually learn to speak Thai instead of answering questions by reading the answer. How can it work when the question is next to the answer. It's a good way to learn to read (listening whilst reading) I wouldn't disagree with that. But theres no way this ever helps you to speak. Just ask the teachers or the students. They all agree.
And yes, it can be difficult when you get to immigration to extend your ED visa. He only speaks Thai, like a test. Wheres that book when you really need it?
Your right, they are good with the visa's, after plenty of asking they do get around to doing it for you. Oh and make sure you get plenty of photo's, they lost my 12 so i had to drive back again once i'd paid (again) for 12 more.
I just happened to find this old thread from 2008 and 2009 .
Look at Post number 10 -that person said almost the same thing as you Paangjang.
And having read Post number 3 now I'm getting a better understanding why Walen need all the money upfront ! 
http://www.ajarnforu...ool-advice.html
Edited by khaan, 2011-11-22 17:57:11.
Posted 2011-11-22 18:02:23
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 11:43:43, said:
khaan, on 2011-11-21 11:37:25, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-21 11:33:33, said:
khaan, on 2011-11-21 11:09:10, said:
I have already established from the Thai consulate in one city in my own country that they will actually even give me
a one year multiple entry visa so I can take care of the visa application on my own.
Without any letter from a language school? May I know what city you are talking about?
So are you charging 24,000 baht just to provide a letter?
No Sir, I did not say that, the letter is issued by the ministry of Education, w e just don't process the application for someone who wants to study 1 month. It is too much work.
I have answered all your questions, can you answer mine please? I am really curious which consulate can issue you a multiple ED visa without any paperwork.
Of course I wouldn't study for just one month. That is a red herring and you know it full well 
And here this person in this in another forum which I discovered confirms my thoughts exactly !
" Walen must be the most advertised Thai language school on the web. They look like essentially an ED visa selling operation. It looks to me that there money goes to advertising, not student education. It is easy to get an ED visa (I'm on my second year now here in LOS) and costs essentially nothing (5000 baht) not the 30,000 baht that Walen wants.
See Post number 3
http://www.ajarnforu...ool-advice.html
Edited by khaan, 2011-11-22 18:03:02.
Posted 2011-11-22 22:39:03
You guys are getting nasty, have a nice day too. Despite your bashing of Walen on a regular basis we've just had yet another fantastic day so all this negativity seems to be working well.
Not everybody makes a great issue of paying 24,960 baht for 180 lessons plus an ED visa assistance. It is really a bargain for the direct method. If you are on such a very tight budget then perhaps looking at an ED visa is not the best option for you. If you just want to learn Thai we can offer you less lessons. If, however, you want to learn and get an ED visa our price is 24,960 Baht and we have to work hard to provide the service.
Despite the fact that some posters or even some students don't like me that much as a person they know very well that Walen is famous for providing most reliable service and indeed cares about the quality of teaching. Of course hard to please everyone. If you can do better than me please become my business partner.
Walen School - trying to please everyone.
Posted 2011-11-22 23:49:33
MacWalen, on 2011-11-22 22:39:03, said:
You guys are getting nasty, have a nice day too. Despite your bashing of Walen on a regular basis we've just had yet another fantastic day so all this negativity seems to be working well.
Not everybody makes a great issue of paying 24,960 baht for 180 lessons plus an ED visa assistance. It is really a bargain for the direct method. If you are on such a very tight budget then perhaps looking at an ED visa is not the best option for you. If you just want to learn Thai we can offer you less lessons. If, however, you want to learn and get an ED visa our price is 24,960 Baht and we have to work hard to provide the service.
Despite the fact that some posters or even some students don't like me that much as a person they know very well that Walen is famous for providing most reliable service and indeed cares about the quality of teaching. Of course hard to please everyone. If you can do better than me please become my business partner.
Walen School - trying to please everyone.
I have to say also I regard your rather patronising comments about being on a tight budget as being a little bit insulting and a complete distraction from your failure to adequately respond to some of the questions.
And why is it possibly a bargain if people finish your course still unable to hold a basic conversation in Thai as described by more than one person ? And why is it a bargain when I have already said that with the paperwork it is possible to get a better type of Education Visa ( multiple entry as opposed to single entry that you offer ) at a fraction of the cost that you are charging.
Edited by khaan, 2011-11-22 23:50:49.
Posted 2011-11-23 00:42:10
khaan, on 2011-11-22 23:49:33, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-22 22:39:03, said:
You guys are getting nasty, have a nice day too. Despite your bashing of Walen on a regular basis we've just had yet another fantastic day so all this negativity seems to be working well.
Not everybody makes a great issue of paying 24,960 baht for 180 lessons plus an ED visa assistance. It is really a bargain for the direct method. If you are on such a very tight budget then perhaps looking at an ED visa is not the best option for you. If you just want to learn Thai we can offer you less lessons. If, however, you want to learn and get an ED visa our price is 24,960 Baht and we have to work hard to provide the service.
Despite the fact that some posters or even some students don't like me that much as a person they know very well that Walen is famous for providing most reliable service and indeed cares about the quality of teaching. Of course hard to please everyone. If you can do better than me please become my business partner.
Walen School - trying to please everyone.
I have to say also I regard your rather patronising comments about being on a tight budget as being a little bit insulting and a complete distraction from your failure to adequately respond to some of the questions.
And why is it possibly a bargain if people finish your course still unable to hold a basic conversation in Thai as described by more than one person ? And why is it a bargain when I have already said that with the paperwork it is possible to get a better type of Education Visa ( multiple entry as opposed to single entry that you offer ) at a fraction of the cost that you are charging.
Perhaps know better SIr, you should go ahead with what you feel is best for you. Nothing was meant to be insulting, if that is how it sounded to you I apologize, it was my impression from reading your posts that the price bothered you.
Regarding learning, if some students do not apply themselves they will not learn at Walen or any other school. We cannot force someone to be a good student. There are millions of people around the world that start learning a foreign language and fail for various reason. If you want to compare yourself to those who fail and not to those who succeed you are doing what is best for you.
Regarding obtaining the ED visa at the fraction of the cost that Walen charges, I don't think you have verified this one. I am not her to argue with anybody. Peace.
Edited by MacWalen, 2011-11-23 01:09:08.
Posted 2011-11-23 01:04:48
MacWalen, on 2011-11-23 00:42:10, said:
khaan, on 2011-11-22 23:49:33, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-22 22:39:03, said:
You guys are getting nasty, have a nice day too. Despite your bashing of Walen on a regular basis we've just had yet another fantastic day so all this negativity seems to be working well.
Not everybody makes a great issue of paying 24,960 baht for 180 lessons plus an ED visa assistance. It is really a bargain for the direct method. If you are on such a very tight budget then perhaps looking at an ED visa is not the best option for you. If you just want to learn Thai we can offer you less lessons. If, however, you want to learn and get an ED visa our price is 24,960 Baht and we have to work hard to provide the service.
Despite the fact that some posters or even some students don't like me that much as a person they know very well that Walen is famous for providing most reliable service and indeed cares about the quality of teaching. Of course hard to please everyone. If you can do better than me please become my business partner.
Walen School - trying to please everyone.
I have to say also I regard your rather patronising comments about being on a tight budget as being a little bit insulting and a complete distraction from your failure to adequately respond to some of the questions.
And why is it possibly a bargain if people finish your course still unable to hold a basic conversation in Thai as described by more than one person ? And why is it a bargain when I have already said that with the paperwork it is possible to get a better type of Education Visa ( multiple entry as opposed to single entry that you offer ) at a fraction of the cost that you are charging.
You obviously know better, so go ahead and do. Nothing was meant to be insulting, it is quite obvious from reading your posts that the price bothers you. So if this is not the issue of money so what is it?
Regarding learning, if some students do not apply themselves they will not learn at Walen or any other school. We cannot force someone to be a good student. There are millions of people around the world that start learning a foreign language and fail for various reason. If you want to compare yourself to those who fail and not to those who succeed you are doing something seriously wrong.
Regarding obtaining the ED visa at the fraction of the cost that Walen charges, are you sure you know what you are talking about. So you have made a real discovery! Let everybody know. Show us how you will do that. One year course with an ED visa for 5,000 Baht as you read somewhere? Give us more info about it please.
it is not the price that bothers me. it is not understanding why you need 12 months fees in advance which bothers me. Two different things
Posted 2011-11-23 16:52:36
MacWalen, on 2011-11-23 00:42:10, said:
khaan, on 2011-11-22 23:49:33, said:
MacWalen, on 2011-11-22 22:39:03, said:
You guys are getting nasty, have a nice day too. Despite your bashing of Walen on a regular basis we've just had yet another fantastic day so all this negativity seems to be working well.
Not everybody makes a great issue of paying 24,960 baht for 180 lessons plus an ED visa assistance. It is really a bargain for the direct method. If you are on such a very tight budget then perhaps looking at an ED visa is not the best option for you. If you just want to learn Thai we can offer you less lessons. If, however, you want to learn and get an ED visa our price is 24,960 Baht and we have to work hard to provide the service.
Despite the fact that some posters or even some students don't like me that much as a person they know very well that Walen is famous for providing most reliable service and indeed cares about the quality of teaching. Of course hard to please everyone. If you can do better than me please become my business partner.
Walen School - trying to please everyone.
I have to say also I regard your rather patronising comments about being on a tight budget as being a little bit insulting and a complete distraction from your failure to adequately respond to some of the questions.
And why is it possibly a bargain if people finish your course still unable to hold a basic conversation in Thai as described by more than one person ? And why is it a bargain when I have already said that with the paperwork it is possible to get a better type of Education Visa ( multiple entry as opposed to single entry that you offer ) at a fraction of the cost that you are charging.
Perhaps know better SIr, you should go ahead with what you feel is best for you. Nothing was meant to be insulting, if that is how it sounded to you I apologize, it was my impression from reading your posts that the price bothered you.
Regarding learning, if some students do not apply themselves they will not learn at Walen or any other school. We cannot force someone to be a good student. There are millions of people around the world that start learning a foreign language and fail for various reason. If you want to compare yourself to those who fail and not to those who succeed you are doing what is best for you.
Regarding obtaining the ED visa at the fraction of the cost that Walen charges, I don't think you have verified this one. I am not her to argue with anybody. Peace.
Because you changed some of the wording from what was your initial response I would like to reply to your paragraph 2 in particular.
Of course I will apply myself and indeed I have proven that already by learning the Thai consonants and vowels entirely on my own at home.
And as I have mentioned previously I have been studying the course work of Pro Language books 1 to 3 also in my private time.
I have already developed quite a reasonable vocabulary and judging from the reaction of Thai's when I speak to them, I seem to be making
a fair amount of progress already without the assistance of any language school ( other than the notes ) .
So in fact there was an even bigger incentive for me to enrol at Walen because it would have been potentially something different
and would have expanded my Thai language skills even further having already learnt the Pro Language way.
So once again I certainly will not compare myself to ' those who fail ' as you say but equally I will not enter into
a commercial arrangement with anyone unless I am satisfied with the terms and conditions .
Edited by khaan, 2011-11-23 16:53:58.
Canaris
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Posted 2011-11-26 08:14:10
khaan said on 11-18:
I wonder if anyone who can speak ,read and write Thai exceptionally well has ever provided an INDEPENDANT
critique of the methodology adopted by these two schools? it would be nice to read about the
advantages and disadvantages from the perspective of an observer of both methods ( as opposed to the
proprietor of the business ).
[/quote]
There may be reluctance of experienced observers to voice opinions and independent critique on this subject for reasons shown below in a posting on a different Thai-language forum.
And I quote:
"This is no longer the best forum for Thai learners. ThaiVisa is allowing their sponsors** to call the shots. Long time members are being banned for protesting. Due to their heavy-handedness the most valuable members have stopped commenting."
**One sponsor
Edited by Canaris, 2011-11-26 08:30:02.
Posted 2011-11-26 09:34:14
Canaris, on 2011-11-26 08:14:10, said:
khaan said on 11-18:
I wonder if anyone who can speak ,read and write Thai exceptionally well has ever provided an INDEPENDANT
critique of the methodology adopted by these two schools? it would be nice to read about the
advantages and disadvantages from the perspective of an observer of both methods ( as opposed to the
proprietor of the business ).
There may be reluctance of experienced observers to voice opinions and independent critique on this subject for reasons shown below in a posting on a different Thai-language forum.
And I quote:
"This is no longer the best forum for Thai learners. ThaiVisa is allowing their sponsors** to call the shots. Long time members are being banned for protesting. Due to their heavy-handedness the most valuable members have stopped commenting."
**One sponsor
thank you very much Canaris 
very interesting information !
Posted 2011-11-30 00:23:56
Must say I have been impressed with Thai Walen )can't comment on Pro Language I'm afraid).
Pros -
1. Very helpful with Visa etc
2. Like the teaching method (but more on this later)
3. Teachers are great and yes, there is certainly eye candy, but they can teach as well.
4. Classroom sizes are just right.
Cons
1. Would like some exercise sheets to go along with the Learning Book.
2. This is just a recent con, which I'm hoping they will change - a new Teaching method has been introduced which doesn't work and has ruined a perfectly good teaching style. It misses the whole part of the student's learning experience and the students don't get a chance to absorb the vocabulary and the sentences; misses the whole point. So, I'm praying this will be fixed as the students aren't happy with this as the whole learning process has gone, but can't see this method staying too long.
But overall, excellent work. Will certainly sign on for another year (if new method is removed).
Posted 2011-11-30 04:15:59
A way that proved to work remarkably well was homework with a new word/expression with an example,
and then several homework sentences in which to implement the new.
I believe having pretty teachers is in fact a plus,
it increases the enjoyment which in turn improve memory & motivation
Edited by poanoi, 2011-11-30 04:20:06.
Posted 2011-12-03 18:04:45
Quote inu[/size]]
I have friend coming from Australia who wants to study Thai. Sheis applying for an ED Visa but is having trouble choosing between Walen and ProLanguage in BKK.
Any thoughts or advice from people with experience of eitherschool would be greatly appreciated.
Edited by leosmith, 2011-12-03 18:24:57.
Posted 2011-12-04 10:16:45
leosmith, on 2011-12-03 18:04:45, said:
Here's a play by play of what happened a few days ago at Walen (this is similar to what happened last year too, but I can't remember last years' details). I walked in and introduced myself in Thai, and asked to take private lessons. The receptionist answered in poor English, telling me I needed to talk to an English speaking salesman. Some farang with good, but heavily accented English came to talk to me, and basically asked me what I wanted. I started telling him, in Thai. He looked around nervously, and the receptionist told me that he's an English speaker. So I asked to talk to a teacher. A teacher eventually came out and I explained what I needed in Thai. She was cute, but not as cute as the pictures. She did her best to respond in English only, but occasionally slipped into Thai. I told her that I wanted someone to sit with me 30 min while I read a novel out loud,and correct my mistakes. Then I wanted someone to discuss the grammar lesson that I did the day before for 30 min. Finally, I wanted someone to converse with me for one hour. Anyway, we only got into the details of the first 30 min.She basically told me they'd have to check on availability of teachers, and would get back to me.
They try to put the student at ease by not requiring them to speak Thai. This is the opposite of what they should be doing in most situations. 
Walen School – not a good choice for conversation
thank you Leo.
Very very unprofessional and quite rude on their part 
Why do they do that ? based on what you say, they certainly don't display the behaviour of an establishment that is doing everything
It possibly can to encourage students to keep learning and improving their Thai? 
Canaris
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Posted 2011-12-05 09:03:56
I have never learned at Walen. But I have tried to take lessons twice. Basically, they don't seem to be prepared to deal with advanced students. Both times I went in, last year and this year, I told them what I wanted to do and they said they'd get back to me.They never did, and I took the hint.
[/quote]
Leosmith
To put your experience with Walen in perspective, you need to consider that NOT ALL STUDENTS are interested in learning Thai - but rather for many. many, many - their only interest may be obtaining a means of staying in Thailand long-term - therefore an Ed Visa.
Walens primary business model appears to be geared toward supplying the demand for Ed Visas. Therefore, since your interest is/was to learn the Thai Language - you considered the wrong place - true for beginners and advanced Thai Students.
From my experience - ProLanguage is a better choice for you. ProLanguage can also assist in obtaining an EdVisa - which in your case you do not appear to need.
Edited by Canaris, 2011-12-05 09:17:44.
Posted 2011-12-05 09:57:55
Canaris, on 2011-12-05 09:03:56, said:
To put your experience with Walen in perspective, you need to consider that NOT ALL STUDENTS are interested in learning Thai - but rather for many. many, many - their only interest may be obtaining a means of staying in Thailand long-term - therefore an Ed Visa.
Walens primary business model appears to be geared toward supplying the demand for Ed Visas. Therefore, since your interest is/was to learn the Thai Language - you considered the wrong place - true for beginners and advanced Thai Students.
From my experience - ProLanguage is a better choice for you. ProLanguage can also assist in obtaining an EdVisa - which in your case you do not appear to need.
As this type of comment has been made numerous times now both on this forum and others what would make the immigration Department
turn a blind eye to this? Even if this doesn't exactly constitute an abuse of the system, surely if it fails to help and support bona fide
students like Leosmith to build further on their existing knowledge of Thai, it is faling in its duty /obligations as a learning institution?
How therefore does it keep its licence/permit from the Ministry of education?
Posted 2011-12-05 12:18:02
Some posters obviously have no idea of what they are talking about. Despite your negativity Walen schools are growing fast. New schools in Koh Samui and Krabi coming soon and expansion in Sukhumvit.
We have many many happy customers and more are on the way. Just because some of you are not happy for whatever reason, or simply you do not like the school because you may gave some hidden agenda, like promoting other schools, or owning your own school or you do not like me or one of my staff will not stop students from learning at Walen.
Walen School - we must be doing something right!
Posted 2011-12-05 13:05:35
MacWalen, on 2011-12-05 12:18:02, said:
Some posters obviously have no idea of what they are talking about. Despite your negativity Walen schools are growing fast. New schools in Koh Samui and Krabi coming soon and expansion in Sukhumvit.
We have many many happy customers and more are on the way. Just because some of you are not happy for whatever reason, or simply you do not like the school because you may gave some hidden agenda, like promoting other schools, or owning your own school or you do not like me or one of my staff will not stop students from learning at Walen.
Walen School - we must be doing something right!
don't be so ridiculous! we are merely discussing the perceived standards and advantages of your method compared to others?
I notice you haven't said anything about the way leosmith was treated by your staff? that was not courteous 'MacWalen
and if I had been in his shoes I would have been very annoyed. If I have learnt some Thai and I can speak Thai
enough to be able to communicate, the very least I would expect is for the Thai language school staff
to reply to me in the same language.
All you ever do is reply by saying you have many happy customers. That doesn't automatically prove that your method is better
or even whether it yields the best results at the end of the day..
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