Original or translated version : Perceptions and preferences toward brithish and American literature of university students and lecturers

Abstract

This research aims to discover and to pinpoint perceptions and preferences of Thai university students and lecturers regarding two relatable variants of British and American literature sold within Thailand - the original ‘English’ and the translated ‘Thai’ versions. Questionnaire surveys were provided to 135 participants, and face-toface interviews were conducted with 18 participants belonging to four university departments (English, Foreign Languages, Literature, and Translation). The results show the participants have ‘universal’ perceptions and preferences where literary works are considered relatable to their academic development. They majorly believe the original version should be considered the primary reading version while the translated version should be the supportive material. On the other hand, the respondents display ‘department-specific’ perceptions and preferences where each department emphasizes different specific aspects of literature related to their respective academic fields, slightly differ their opinions. Nevertheless, both versions are positively perceived for having quality as a possible alternative EFL learning method. The research also discussed possible cycles of learning with literary works, which encourages continuous usage of literature as well as further academic research or studies toward literary reading in Thailand.