Speaker
Description
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is essential for bridging the gap between language education and employability. However, empirical evaluations of how WIL is systematically integrated into undergraduate language curricula in Vietnam remain limited. This study aims to assess the current state of its implementation in the Bachelor of English Language programme at Hanoi University of Science and Technology to identify existing gaps and propose practical enhancements. Methodologically, the study employed a previously established work-integrated learning curriculum mapping tool as an analytical framework to evaluate the programme’s syllabi based on criteria such as task authenticity, industry partnership, assessment, and reflection. To ensure the reliability and validity of the evaluation, the initial assessment results were sent to key academic stakeholders for review and revision. The empirical analysis reveals a significant gap between pedagogical design and authentic workplace integration. While the programme demonstrates strengths in active learning by frequently utilising project-based learning, role-plays, and portfolio assessments, the vast majority of core courses remain at the Non-work-integrated learning or Pre-work-integrated learning levels. Key issues include the absence of external industry partners, the purely simulated nature of tasks confined within the classroom, and a lack of formalised reflection mechanisms. To bridge these gaps, the study recommends resource-efficient interventions, including from internal simulations, industry-linked projects, institutionalised reflective logbooks and employer co-assessment for internship modules. The findings provide data-driven insights into the transition from classroom learning to authentic professional practices.
Biography
Dau Thi Le Hieu is an English lecturer at the Faculty of Foreign Languages, Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST). Having studied and worked across diverse academic environments in Europe, Asia, and Australia, she brings a truly global and cross-cultural perspective to her teaching and research. Her academic qualifications are rooted in language learning and educational innovations. She has over 20 years of experience in designing and delivering English Language Education programs for HUST and several partner universities across Vietnam. She is also experienced in transnational higher education in the position of a program leader and academic liaison tutor of a joint BA English language program in partnership with a UK university for almost a decade. Her research centers on experiential learning, reflective practice, pedagogical adaptation for varied learning purposes, assessment, and educational policy in language education with the purpose of enriching language learners’ experience and promoting their employability.
Nguyen Thi Hien is a lecturer of English at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Vietnam (HUST). She holds a Master's degree in Education (Leadership and Management). Her research interests include English language teaching methodology, learner-centered pedagogy in higher education, and educational management in foreign language programs. Her recent publications address collaborative writing, microteaching in teacher education, emotional intelligence in educational leadership, and work-integrated learning in English-major curricula. Her current work focuses on aligning English-major programs with workplace and societal demands to enhance graduate readiness.
Since 2005, Pham Hoai Anh has been a lecturer at Faculty of Foreign Languages, Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), where she has supported students in developing not only English communication skills but also soft skills and entrepreneurial competencies through a wide range of ESP, GE, EAP, and EMI courses. She is currently a module leader and instructor for Research Methodology and Project Management courses delivered in English for undergraduate students. Since late 2023, she has served as Vice Director of the HUST Center for Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship. In this role, she coordinates workshops, competitions, and innovation-related events that inspire students, foster their entrepreneurial mindset, and enhance students’ soft skills, startup capabilities and technology commercialization, contributing actively to HUST’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. Pham Hoai Anh earned a Master’s Degree in Linguistics from Vietnam National University in 2009 and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Cambridge in 2011.
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