One Week Surveying in Thailand

Hi everyone! I am Leon who is Kawasaki Sensei’s student. In this occasion, I would like to share a bit about my experience in conducting part of my research in Thailand. I had my flight from Haneda on 15^th January and hopefully it was a pleasant seven (7) hours flight. Long story short, Kawasaki Sensei and I arrived in Thailand around evening time. As I have been used to Japan’s winter, my first impression of Thailand upon arrival was “Hot”.

We directly conducted the survey the next day after our arrival. As this is my first social engineering experience, I was so excited. Kawasaki Sensei and I, along with the surveyor teams, visited several low-income areas which were heavily inundated by flood around Ayutthaya District in Thailand. Listening to the livelihood of the impacted person directly in the survey hit differently when compared to when listened to it from the news or YouTube. 

It was really unlikely to believe if it has not been directly mentioned by the local that there was flood occurred with depth about 2 meters from the ground and last for 3months. Those with ample money could increase their house platform level to adapt with flood while those who can’t afford had to live and sleep with flood water inside their house during 3 months of flood period. Kids were unable to study normally as schools were also closed during flood period. Local’s business product and household utilities were also often damaged. 

During the survey, I also noticed that in its process was not always easy and smooth. For instance, some family refuse to answer the questions while some didn’t fulfil the criteria as our respondent. In often cases, several areas were very isolated to be reached by cars. Nevertheless, I am glad that the activity was carried out by qualified team who were all friendly and patient while communicating to the responded. Additionally, I am also accompanied by Kodaka Sensei from Keio University who has helped and given me many new insights during the survey.

 

Aside from the research, I was so tied up as there was exam I need to nail. I was supposed to do the exam offline in the classroom, but fortunately I alternative was given - I was doing my written exam while supervised by Kawasaki Sensei himself. Here is a picture of me taken by Sensei. HAHAHA, the shoulder felt lighter after the test. 

 

Nevertheless, despite all of the tied schedule and exam, I manage to have some fun in Thailand! The foods were heaven! The Spicy Basil dish is definitely my favorite! ( I had it for my lunch for 3 days in a row ;D ). On the next picture, several sweets incoming!! The famous mango sticky, gelato and bubble tea on a hot days. #TeamSweetTooth. 

 

Last but not least, it is not officially visiting Thailand without visiting Thailand’s best known of – Its Buddhism Temple. The view was breathtaking especially the moment when the sun was about to set creating a golden color coating above the temple. I attached several picture for you as well below to let you observe by yourself the majestic of the temple. Amazing, isn't it?

    

I would like to sent my biggest gratitude to Kawasaki Sensei for the accompanying me despite his packed schedule and meetings. The survey won't be as smooth as it is now without his guidance and directions. Additionally, many thanks to Kodaka Sensei as well for his insight and time in the field (and temple trip) with me. Last but not least, the teams that has made this survey plausible.

I sincerely hope to visit Thailand again! and I couldn't wait to update more in this blog.

See you all again next time.

Thank you for reading.

-Leon, 2023 Feb 11th