It is necessary to focus on training learners to be able to use English well instead of test scores.

The recent move to make English a second language in schools is a big step forward in continuing to help learners succeed in life and work.

Mr. Jonny Western, Head of New Initiatives, School of English and University Pathways at RMIT Vietnam, talked to PV about this topic.

In your opinion, what is the current English level in Vietnam?

Based on the EF English Proficiency Index, a large-scale ranking of English proficiency by country, Vietnam ranks 58th out of 113 countries (7th out of 23 countries in Asia). This is the average.

So, how can we improve the English proficiency of learners in Vietnam?

Investing in teacher development and making teaching an attractive career path is essential.

To improve language proficiency nationwide, students need access to high-quality language instruction. To achieve this, Vietnamese teachers need to have excellent English language and pedagogical skills, to deliver high-quality instruction, and to model effective English use. This requires teacher education programs to nurture and support their professional development.

Although teaching is highly regarded in Vietnam, it is still less financially attractive than other professions. Therefore, many Vietnamese people with excellent English communication skills often choose to work in other industries due to the financial stability these industries provide.

Another challenge for language development in Vietnam is that learners of English often focus on the desired scores on proficiency tests, such as IELTS, to apply for travel abroad, apply for university or get exemptions from school classes.

Mr Jonny Western, Head of New Initiatives, School of English and University Pathways at RMIT Vietnam

When test results are the driving force, students can become obsessed with tips and tricks, and constantly take practice tests, which does not support meaningful language learning. While achieving the required results on a proficiency test is important and a welcome achievement, it is more important to develop language skills that can be used fluently when participating in an English-medium study program or working in a company that requires English communication.

Therefore, the best approach is to equip students with language, cross-cultural, communication and learning skills, helping them to integrate and thrive in English-speaking environments.

A commitment to improving the quality of training and professional development for Vietnamese teachers, with a greater emphasis on producing learners with good language skills rather than test scores, could have a strong impact on English proficiency in Vietnam. These could be enhanced by government development policies, such as integrating English as a medium of instruction more into school curricula.

Can we learn any lessons from other countries, such as the Philippines and Singapore?

The Philippines ranked 20th out of 113 countries in the EF English Proficiency Index, with Singapore coming in second. For both countries, the successes can be attributed to the use of English as a lingua franca in schools. In theory, this ensures that all students can develop their English while studying core subjects at school, rather than having to pay for extra language lessons.

To maximize language proficiency, it is helpful to start learning at a young age and make it a purposeful and engaging journey. Including language learning in the school curriculum or taking extracurricular classes are common ways to get children started early.

Introducing more English into the school curriculum will provide learners with solid and comprehensive language skills, helping them to succeed in their studies and future careers. It will also ensure that the younger generation in Vietnam has the language skills needed to meet their international goals.

Thank you!

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/can-chu-trong-vao-viec-dao-tao-nguoi-hoc-co-kha-nang-su-dung-tot-tieng-anh-thay-vi-diem-thi-2024100815454455.htm