Innovative English Teaching Solutions Proposed in Master’s Theses at HUTECH 18/06/2025

The Master’s theses and graduation projects presented by graduate students in the English Language Studies program at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) on June 18 introduced a variety of innovative and highly applicable English teaching methods, offering practical values to the field of education. 

The graduate theses and projects of Master's students have introduced a range of innovative English teaching solutions.

The thesis/graduation project defense session featured three works, all focused on contemporary issues in English language teaching. These topics not only demonstrated rigorous academic research but also emphasized the improvement of teaching methodologies, contributing to enhanced learning outcomes for students across different proficiency levels.

The evaluation committee consisted of five members, including faculty from HUTECH’s Faculty of English Language:

- Dr. Nguyễn Thị Kiều Thu – Dean of the Faculty of English Language

- Dr. Lê Văn Tuyên – Vice Dean

- Dr. Nguyễn Ngọc Trân Châu – Head of the General English Division

The committee also welcomed guest experts from other universities, such as:

- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Huỳnh Trang – Lecturer at University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City

- Dr. Nguyễn Thị Thu – Lecturer at the People's Police University.

Among the standout research projects was an experimental study comparing the effectiveness of traditional and innovative methods in teaching reading comprehension. Participants were divided into two groups taught over two months. The group using the innovative method was provided with reading passages, extended-response questions, and vocabulary activities after each session. Results showed a significant improvement in reading comprehension and vocabulary for this group, along with greater enthusiasm for learning.

Three graduation theses/projects focused on issues in the field of English language teaching.

Another thesis focused on surveying students’ perceptions of modern teaching methods. The researcher conducted surveys and interviews, then analyzed the data to propose practical suggestions for designing learning activities, adjusting teaching duration, and selecting assessment methods tailored to different proficiency groups.

The third thesis applied Problem-based Learning (PrBL) to teaching English grammar, encouraging students to acquire knowledge by solving real-life scenarios instead of passive theoretical intake. In this approach, learners are placed in context-specific situations where grammar content is embedded within problems that they must analyze and resolve, thereby actively constructing knowledge. The teacher’s role becomes that of a facilitator, providing timely feedback and systematic guidance. To implement PrBL effectively, the study emphasized the need for training programs to enhance instructors' skills in designing appropriate activities and managing exploratory classrooms.

Throughout the defense, the committee posed critical questions to examine the logical development of each thesis and the feasibility of the proposed teaching approaches. These academic exchanges not only clarified the practical applicability of each topic but also offered constructive suggestions for further improvement, aiming to better meet current English learning needs.

The committee posed several critical questions to help the candidates clarify the practical applicability of their research topics.

This thesis defense session marked a significant academic milestone, reflecting the dedicated efforts of the graduate students and the strong academic standards upheld by the English Language Studies program at HUTECH. The highly evaluated research projects serve as a solid foundation for the graduates to further develop their expertise and affirm their professional competence and standing in the field of language education.

By: Mỹ Lam

Photos: Công Định

Media Center – HUTECH