Qualities of effective EFL English teachers as perceived by Thai university students: A photovoice study

Teachers are often viewed as a resource of knowledge, important role models for students, and key agents to the lives of students. Thus, understanding the qualities of an effective teacher is indispensable for effective teaching and learning and the success of the education system at large. This study attempts to identify qualities of effective EFL English teachers as perceived by Thai university students, using a qualitative method, photovoice. The participants in this study were 26 students (11 males, 15 females) from a university in Thailand, with an age range between 18 and 24. The findings revealed four main themes that could best reflect the qualities of effective EFL English teachers as perceived by the participants in the context. The themes included teachers' classroom instruction skills, their subject matter knowledge, pedagogical knowledge, and socioaffective skills. In conclusion, this study built on the existing conceptual framework of effective EFL English teachers, and provides guidelines for teachers, universities, and policymakers in preparing or hiring English teachers.