The workshop titled “Innovative Curriculum Design and Assessment Strategies in Transnational Education (TNE): Challenges and Opportunities” was held on December 9 at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH). It provided fresh and in-depth perspectives on enhancing the quality of transnational education (TNE) programs, focusing on innovations in education, internationalization, and digital transformation in higher education in Vietnam.
The workshop took place at Saigon Campus, drawing a large attendance of faculty members from universities across the country
The event is part of the UK TNE Development Project, supported by the British Council. This project is a collaborative effort among four universities: HUTECH, the University of Economics and Finance (UEF), Vietnam-Korea University of Information and Communication Technology (VKU), and Phenikaa University. Together, the institutions aim to improve the quality of TNE programs in Vietnam and strengthen academic collaboration between Vietnam and the UK.
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HUTECH representatives expressed their gratitude through tokens of appreciation to partners and speakers
The workshop was attended by representatives from the British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, including Ms. Alexandra Elizabeth Smith – Consul General, and Ms. Ho Thi Kim Phuong – Trade Manager (Education). The British Council was represented by Ms. Hoang Van Anh – Head of Education, Ms. Le Thu Hien – Education Program Manager, and Ms. Phi Phan – Education Program Manager. Representing HUTECH were Dr. Ly Thien Trang – Vice President, Dr. Hoang Ngoc Nhung – Deputy Head of the Department of International Relations and Project Management, and Ms. Nguyen Lan Huong – Deputy Head of the Department of International Relations and Project Management.
Representatives from the British Consulate General, the British Council, and HUTECH at the event
The workshop attracted participants from universities across the country, both online and in-person, including institutions such as Acumen, CQUniversity, HCMC University of Technology and Education, Vietnam-German University, Van Lang University, and various universities under the Vietnam National University systems in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the Banking Academy and Hanoi Medical University.
Dr. Katie Lupton, Head of International Academic Partnerships at Leeds Trinity University, opened the workshop with a presentation on the importance of innovative curriculum design in transnational education. She emphasized that curriculum design should not only meet academic standards but also create inclusive and diverse learning environments for students.
Dr. Katie Lupton presented on the importance of innovative curriculum design and active learning
Dr. Lupton introduced the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, a method that ensures equitable access to knowledge for all students, regardless of their academic background or personal abilities. UDL is based on three core pillars: Engagement (connecting content to real-world contexts), Representation (using multiple teaching methods such as text, images, and videos), and Action and Expression (allowing students to demonstrate understanding through various forms, from writing and presentations to creative projects). She highlighted that applying UDL improves learning outcomes and enhances student engagement, which is especially critical in TNE contexts where students come from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.
She applied the presented strategies in interactive discussions with faculty during the workshop
In addition to UDL, Dr. Lupton also discussed Active Learning Strategies, which shift the focus from lecturers to students, encouraging active participation through activities like group discussions, gamification, and flipped classrooms. She outlined specific strategies, including:
(1) Think-Pair-Share: Students reflect, exchange ideas with peers, and share with the class.
(2) Case-based Learning: Using real-world scenarios to apply knowledge to problem-solving.
(3) Flipped Classroom: Students study theoretical materials at home and use class time for practice and discussions.
Faculty members practiced these teaching methods during the workshop
Following this, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Kien, Vice President of HUTECH, shared insights on integrating digital learning and technology into higher education. He introduced HUTECH's digital learning ecosystem, including platforms like eLearning, a digital library system, and modern learning management tools.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Kien presented innovative methods for digital transformation in education
He emphasized that digital transformation goes beyond technical advancements to fundamentally reshape educational approaches. Faculty can optimize teaching time with flipped classroom models, integrate online assessment tools for faster and more accurate feedback, and develop short online courses to cater to students’ flexible learning needs. These initiatives not only improve training quality but also expand access to education for remote or disadvantaged students.
The atmosphere became lively as faculty engaged in discussions on effective teaching and learning solutions
Mr. Maxime Vigier, a lecturer from the University of Gloucestershire, shared the success story of the Digital Marketing Strategy course. Adapted from an international model to suit Vietnam’s context, the course allows students to gain practical experience through projects like developing new products or organizing charity campaigns. This serves as a clear example of how innovative curriculum design can help students develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Another highlight of the workshop was a roundtable discussion on the challenges of implementing transnational education. Experts analyzed barriers such as cultural differences, legal requirements, and infrastructure limitations in partner countries. Proposed solutions included enhancing collaboration between universities and training faculty to understand and adapt to cultural differences. These measures are seen as key to improving the quality and sustainability of TNE programs.
The roundtable discussion provided a platform for speakers to address challenges and opportunities in TNE implementation
The insights from the workshop aim to enhance the quality and internationalization of higher education in Vietnam
The presentations at the workshop not only offered comprehensive perspectives on educational innovation but also outlined concrete steps to improve the quality and internationalization of higher education in Vietnam. This serves as a foundation for collaboration between Vietnam and the UK, further positioning Vietnamese education on the global academic map. News: Bảo Thư
Photo: Ngọc Duy - Bảo Hân
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