Training on AUN-QA-based self-assessment of academic programs at HUTECH

On December 31, the Center for Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) organized a training program titled “Workshop on Self-Assessment of Academic Programs in Accordance with AUN-QA Standards.” The program aimed to equip HUTECH’s staff, lecturers, and employees with essential knowledge and strengthen their capacity in implementing self-assessment activities aligned with international standards.

The workshop was an important activity in preparation for the evaluation of master's programs according to the international AUN-QA standards in 2025. The participating units include: the Faculty of English, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Tourism – Restaurant – Hotel Management, and the Institute of Graduate Studies.

Serving as the speaker of the program, Dr. Ly Thien Trang – Vice President of HUTECH – delivered a comprehensive introduction to the key components of the AUN-QA Version 4.0 standards. She emphasized the critical role of self-assessment and continuous improvement in enhancing education quality, meeting societal development needs, and aligning with global integration trends.

The participating staff, lecturers, and employees were provided with an overview of the AUN-QA quality assurance system, with a focus on the multidimensional approach to defining the quality of higher education. The content covered key aspects such as teaching, research, services, and stakeholder feedback, along with the eight core criteria for program assessment: expected learning outcomes, program structure and content, teaching and learning approach, student assessment, academic staff quality, student support services, facilities and infrastructure, and program outcomes.

Beyond theoretical learning, the training workshop created an active and engaging learning environment through the application of active teaching methods, highlighted by practical exercises and lively group activities. Participants collaborated to construct diagrams illustrating the definition of educational quality, clearly demonstrating the connections between AUN-QA assessment criteria and actual implementation practices at HUTECH. Through group discussions, staff and lecturers were guided in analyzing and applying AUN-QA standards to real-life contexts, identifying necessary resources, and proposing appropriate improvement solutions. Interactive activities such as tower building and ball-passing games further helped participants recognize the importance of aligning with standard requirements, following established processes, assigning tasks effectively, and managing time efficiently.

The training program placed special emphasis on modern educational approaches, highlighting the importance of continuous guidance and learner-centered support throughout the learning process — a key factor in ensuring education quality in the context of global integration. Lecturers were encouraged to adopt techniques for closely monitoring student progress, conducting regular assessments, providing essential information, and offering timely support. These practices aim to identify areas for improvement, foster individual student development, optimize the learning experience, and strengthen the connection between educators and learners.

Applying the acquired knowledge to self-assessment practices, lecturers had the opportunity to conduct hands-on evaluations of academic programs using AUN-QA standards. They were trained in data collection, information synthesis, and comprehensive program evaluation — enabling them to identify both strengths and areas for improvement to guide future enhancements. The speaker not only supported participants in understanding and applying key concepts of quality assurance and continuous improvement in the context of HUTECH, but also conveyed an important message on the role of lecturers in driving ongoing enhancement of teaching and learning activities.

The “Training Workshop on Self-Assessment of Academic Programs in Accordance with AUN-QA Standards” provided essential knowledge for HUTECH’s staff, lecturers, and employees. At the same time, it opened new perspectives and reaffirmed the University's role and responsibility in enhancing education quality, aligning with international standards, and advancing global integration. This strategic initiative marks a significant step forward in affirming HUTECH’s position in the field of higher education — contributing to sustainable development and global connectivity.