The English requirement of English proficiency before graduating, dubbed “the 82nd ordeal” by students, has stopped many students graduating on time or at all. What are the solutions that universities offer? Let’s discuss this issue with Nguyen Tat Thanh University.
This conversation features Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh, Vice President of Nguyen Tat Thanh University (NTTU) and Director of the NTT Institute of International Education (NIIE).
Why do universities require English proficiency?
Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh: English has become a tool for evaluating the competence of employees and a hiring criterion for prospective applicants. A good English skill will improve job opportunities and salary levels. This is why universities emphasize English teaching and often require their students to achieve certain level of English proficiency before graduation. According to the current MOET’s regulations, a minimum level of B2 in English is required for master’s and doctoral studies.
So, English is crucial for career opportunities and further education. But for many students, it’s a challenging requirement. What is your institution’s solution?
Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh: While setting a graduation requirement for English proficiency, our institute also provides measures to help students meet it. NTT Institute of International Education (NIIE), a pioneer in high-quality education and international-standard workforce training at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, places a strong emphasis on English teaching. To help students achieve a B2 level of English (~ IELTS 6.0), NIIE has adopted an integrated and comprehensive approach of teaching and learning. Our curriculum is scientifically designed, incorporated with state-of-the art teaching materials and taught by dedicated native-speaking instructors. The interactive teaching methods and lively learning environment are also key components.
Can you share more details about the English program at NIIE?
Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh: NIIE’s English program is built according to the Global Scale of English (GSE) with six levels from beginner to advanced. It was designed to help students reach the B2 level of English after two years. Before starting the course, students participate in a review course, are tested and placed in classes according to their levels. At the same time, the professional courses are also taught bilingually, with the percentage of in-class English usage increasing from 25% to 100%; hence, creating an environment for students to practice English. This is our way to create an integrated environment for English learning.
What is the comprehensive approach adopted by your institution?
Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh: Effective English learning requires effective study materials, teaching instructors, and learning environment. NIIE has collaborated with Pearson, the world’s leading publisher of English textbooks, to provide advanced, original study materials. NIIE students can access a vast online resource library beyond textbooks. Furthermore, our dedicated faculty with 25% being native speakers were well trained in interactive teaching methodologies. The small class sizes at NIIE also allow for intensive communication practice. Beside classes, we offer remedial support for struggling students and create engaging activities to help students improve their English skills such as mini-games, regular livestreams, extracurricular activities, and English clubs. These lively activities help students learn and socialize, reducing stress.
What results have NIIE students achieved with these solutions?
Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh: NIIE prides itself on the quality of its English teaching. Many parents and students commented that studying at NIIE saved their time and money to achieve the English requirement. NIIE students can excel in English while earning their degrees. Just after one semester at NIIE, students who had been struggling with English overcame their fears. They can confidently intern at foreign companies and participate in international programs in Australia, Malaysia, and South Korea, or transfer to the US and Finland. Some have even won high awards in language competitions. Overall, NIIE students are highly regarded for their English proficiency.
Thank you, Dr. Nguyen Tuan Anh, for sharing this valuable information, which helps parents and students better understand the educational programs NIIE offers.
The NTT Institute of International Education (NIIE) is now accepting applications for the International Standard Bachelor’s program in seven majors: Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Economic Law, Accounting, Information Technology, Automotive Engineering Technology, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Register for consultation and application guidance at: https://bit.ly/3X3rYPI
