Fifteen doctoral students from Teacher Education, Educational Policy and Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education (HALE) are traveling together to universities and schools throughout Vietnam this month as part of a new international study trip opportunity sponsored by the College of Education.
The group, which departed on June 4, expects to visit approximately 15 institutions in a total of 10 different cities during their tour. Visit their blog for up-to-date photos and reflections from participants.
Faculty leader John Dirkx said students are approaching the experience with two main objectives: develop an understanding of the education system in Vietnam (primary through postsecondary) and explore Vietnam’s efforts to reform education, specifically in terms of building more capacity for quality instruction and leadership.
Vietnam’s postsecondary education system has been growing extremely fast, Dirkx said, as the nation’s rapidly expanding economy creates more and more demand for skilled workers. MSU faculty members have a history of successful research and service in Vietnam, particularly with institutions in the Mekong Delta.
The College of Education’s plan to offer sponsored international study trips to doctoral students started with a pilot three-week trip to China during 2009. The program is now open to all Ph.D. students who want to apply for the opportunity to experience another nation’s culture and educational practices firsthand. A group traveled to China earlier this spring, and another group will depart for Botswana at the end of June.