Lecturers from the Faculty of Foreign Languages at the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (FFL-IUH) recently completed a short-term training program at Humber College in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from July 4 to August 2, 2024. The lecturers returned with a wealth of knowledge and lasting memories. The program included intensive courses on research and teaching methods, as well as opportunities to engage with international education experts during the Global Summer School. Notably, the integration of language and content teaching methods offered new insights for teaching specialized subjects in English, aligning with IUH's integration efforts. Additionally, the lecturer served as a cultural ambassador, sharing insights about Vietnam with international peers."

FFL lecturers enrolled in courses at Humber College, Canada.

The short-term training program at Humber College in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, took place from July 4 to August 2, 2024, and included four lecturers from the Faculty of Foreign Languages at IUH: Ms. Hoang Thi Phong Linh, Ms. Nguyen Thi Diem Thi, Ms. Le Pham Thien Thu, and Ms. Dang Hoang Mai. A highlight of the program was the Research Bootcamp held during the first week. This course introduced new concepts and perspectives on scientific research. Nearly 40 participants from various continents came together to explore the research process, discover commonalities, and identify new directions in their work. The bootcamp emphasized that research extends beyond abstract terms and concepts; it is driven by passion, excitement, and continuous creativity.

FFL lecturers joined the Research Bootcamp course.

FFL lecturers joined the Research Bootcamp course with international friends.

On the far right: Dr. Ginger Grant, Dean of Research and Innovation at Humber College.

FFL lecturers received their certificates of completion for the Research Bootcamp course from Dr. Ginger Grant, Dean of Research and Innovation at Humber College.

In the second phase of the program, lecturers from the Faculty of Foreign Languages received advanced training in modern teaching methods through a course on Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL). This course enhanced their creativity in designing and delivering lectures that integrate content with language, resulting in engaging and effective learning experiences for students. Through dynamic discussions, the lecturers mastered principles of learner-centered course design, including setting clear learning objectives, selecting diverse activities, and creating appropriate assessments. Practicing teaching skills with active learning techniques improved their proficiency in applying CLIL methods. Additionally, the program covered technology use in teaching, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, equipping lecturers to not only impart knowledge effectively but also to guide students in their comprehensive development.

Join a lively discussion during CLIL class

Applying active teaching methods in CLIL classes

CLIL Class with Experienced and Dedicated Instructor Alessandra Kennedy

In addition to enhancing their academic skills, the Humber Global Summer School program offered the FFL faculty a chance to fully immerse themselves in Canadian life and culture. Beyond their rigorous study sessions, the lecturers engaged in a variety of exciting extracurricular activities, including Grand River Rafting, Treetop Trekking, and watching Blue Jays baseball, Canada's national sport. They also visited Niagara Falls, located on the border of Canada and the United States, explored Lake Ontario, and enjoyed the adventurous rides at Canada’s Wonderland. These activities not only bolstered teamwork and adaptability but also left a lasting impression of Toronto's natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Visit the Majestic Niagara Falls on the Border of Canada and the United States

Sailing across the river fosters teamwork and collaboration.

Ms. Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean of Education and International Relations at Humber College, said, 'We believe that IUH faculty members have returned to Vietnam with fresh perspectives on teaching and learning that they will integrate into their classrooms. Meanwhile, we have greatly benefited from their enthusiasm, open-mindedness, and commitment to ongoing collaboration. We look forward to future discussions and to strengthening the educational partnership between IUH and Humber, including opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, internships, academic pathways, research, collaborative projects, and summer programs.

The faculty team received encouraging words and positive feedback from Ms. Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean of Education and International Relations at Humber College.

By the end of the program, the lecturers from the Faculty of Foreign Languages had not only gained valuable knowledge about integrating scientific research with teaching specialized subjects in foreign languages, but also made significant progress in teamwork, active teaching techniques, effective learner assessment methods, and other essential soft skills. This successful training has enhanced the teaching and research capabilities of the FFL faculty at the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City and has opened up future opportunities for training and research collaboration between IUH and Humber College.

Humber Global Summer School Summer Program Closing Ceremony.

Author:Ms. Hoang Thi Phong Linh, Ms. Nguyen Thi Diem Thi, Ms. Le Pham Thien Thu, Ms. Dang Hoang Mai