Currently, a variety of active learning methods, such as learning by doing, problem-based learning, project-based learning and place-based learning, are being applied effectively in universities and colleges across Da Nang.

Students from the city’s University of Technology and Education participating in a business semester in the Ba Na Hills Resort

The purpose of the methods is to let students learn actively in the classroom and gain essential soft skills, as well as to increase their pursuit of majors in school.

Dr Nguyen Thi My Huong from the city-based Viet Nam-UK Research and Training Institute highlighted the significance of essential soft skills for career success. Therefore, all of her students have been taught soft skills, with a focus on teamwork and creative thinking skills, by foreign lecturers since they enrolled in the Institute.

Dr Nguyen Linh Nam from the city’s University of Technology and Education remarked personal and communication skills are indispensable subjects in his university’s training programmes.

Mr Nam underlined the importance of integrating multiple assessment methods in turning passive learners into active ones, and helping students develop such necessary skills as application, creativity, teamwork, interpersonal and presentation skills.

Mr Bui Trung Hiep, Deputy Head of the Student Affairs Office of the Da Nang University of Economics, noted that when hiring for a new position, all employers want to recruit the most talented candidates possible based on KSA (Knowledge, Skill and Attitude).

He added amongst the 3 KSA factors, ‘attitude’ receives much attention from employers. The main reason is thought to be that ‘knowledge’ can be learnt, ‘skills’ can be acquired, but ‘attitude’ cannot be taught.

Mr Tran Gia Thong from the city-based ActionCOACH noted that your attitude is a form of expression of yourself. You can choose to be happy, positive and optimistic or you can choose to be pessimistic and critical with a negative outlook on your workday. Having a positive attitude and thinking at work will reflect on what you do and make you a more productive employee.

Mr Nguyen Tien Tien, former Vice Rector of the local College of Commerce, stressed the need for students to choose suitable part-time jobs which help them cover tuition fees and develop important soft skills for their future careers as well.