Speakers
Description
In today’s super-connected world, powered by the Internet and social networking platforms, online teacher communities are flourishing for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and resources. However, it remains a challenge to ensure engagement and foster meaningful collaboration. This study explores how to maintain support professional development, motivation, and peer collaboration among English teachers in Vietnam, using The English Teacher Project as a case study. The research examines five years of group initiatives, including designing mock tests for the National Secondary Education Exam and organizing professional webinars and additional non-professional activities. Data include group interaction records, reflective journals from administrators, and informal surveys with over 100 group members. Findings suggest that voluntary, peer-led activities significantly enhance engagement and contribute to teaching motivation. The group’s success is attributed to shared values, enthusiastic leadership, and the strategic use of accessible digital platforms. The presentation concludes with practical strategies for managing similar teacher communities and addressing common operational challenges in sustaining professional development.
Biography
Dang Tran Ha is an experienced English teacher and Head of the English Department at Nguyen Tat Thanh High School for the Gifted in Yen Bai, Vietnam. With 27 years of teaching experience, he has earned recognition for his dedication to nurturing gifted students and leading professional development in Yen Bai.
Nguyen Van Dinh is Vice Principal of Tran Cao Van High School in Khanh Hoa and a senior English teacher with nearly 30 years of experience. He has also been acknowledged for his contributions to teaching talented students and supporting teacher development in his province.
Nguyen Viet Ty is a key English teacher in Quang Tri, currently working at Bui Duc Tai High School.
The trio share a strong passion for education, supporting fellow teachers, and building a community of English educators to enhance the quality of teaching and learning across Vietnam.
