MINISTRY OF
HO CHI MINH NATIONAL ACADEMY OF
EDUCATION & TRAINING POLITICS
ACADEMY OF JOURNALISM AND COMMUNICATION
TRẦN HUY NGỌC
INNOVATION IN METHODS OF EDUCATION ON POLITICAL
THEORY FOR STUDENTS OF UNIVERSITIES IN THE
NORTHERN MIDLAND AND MOUNTAINOUS AREA OF
VIETNAM
(Through survey at Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac University)
Major: Idealogical work
Code: 9 31 02 01
SUMMARY OF THE DOCTORAL DISSERTATION ON POLITICS
SCIENTIFIC SUPERVISOR
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phạm Huy Kỳ
HA NOI 2018
The reaserch was completed at: Academy of Journalism and Communication
Scientific Supervisor:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phạm Huy Kỳ
The dissertation will be defensed before the Academic Thesis Board at:
Academy of Journalism and Communication.
At........................ 2018
1
INTRODUCTION
1. Rationale of the study
1.1. President Ho Chi Minh and the Communist Party of Vietnam always
determine that education on political theory is an important part of ideological work,
contributing to building and strengthening the spiritual foundation of the society. From the
practical work of the education on political theory, the Party has issued many directives
and resolutions to innovate and improve the quality and effectiveness of the education on
political theory. The document of the Congress XI stated: "Continue to renew the content
and methods; further improve the fighting, persuasiveness, and effectiveness of
ideological work, propaganda and study of MarxismLeninism, Ho Chi Minh’s Thought,
viewpoints of the Communist Party, policies and laws of the Government; innovate and
improve the quality of education on political theory, educate citizens in the system of
political schools as well as schools in the system of national education. Every officer and
member of the Party must study and raise the political theory competence”.
1.2. After more than 30 years of renovation, Vietnam has achieved great
achievements in all aspects of social life. However, the negative sides of the market
economy, globalization and international integration have negatively impacted life,
ruined many traditional beauties and traditions, changed our perceptions and
lifestyles, faded ideals and beliefs of a large part of people in general as well as the
youth and students in particular. Therefore, the urgent practical necessity is to
increase the quality and effectiveness of education on political theory in universities.
Especially, the method of education on political theory for students of universities in
Vietnam in recent years has revealed many limitations with slow innovation
compared with the reality of the country and the world. In fact, it is required to
continue to innovate the method of education on political theory in the universities in
our country today.
1.3. The Northern midland and mountainous area is the largest territory of the
country (account for about 30.5% of the total area and 14.2% of the country's
population). This is an important political, cultural and social region. However, it has a
difficult economic condition, most of which are ethnic minorities with cultural diversity.
Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac University, located in the Northern midland and
mountainous area, are responsible for training highquality human resources for the
region, at the same time carrying out the task of scientific research and technology
transfer, making an important contribution to the socioeconomic development of the
Northern region. Over 90,000 undergraduate students studying at these universities will
be a very important human resource for the future of the region and the country.
Education on political theory for students in universities in the midland and mountainous
2
areas is of significant importance. However, the real innovations in education on
political theory, including innovative teaching methods for students still reveal many
limitations and inadequacies.
Therefore, continuing to innovate the approaches of education on political
theory to improve the quality and effectiveness of education on political theory for
students in universities has profound theoretical and practical implications. In order to
handle this issue, the author selects: "Innovation in methods of education on political
theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area
of Vietnam" (Through survey at Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac University) as his
doctoral dissertation.
2. Purpose of the study
The study clarifies the theoretical basis of the innovation in education on political
theory for students of universities in our country, surveys the situation, and proposes
some viewpoints and major solutions to innovate methods in education on political
theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of
Vietnam.
3. Tasks of the study
To achieve the above purposes, the thesis should perform the following tasks:
Clarify theoretical issues on the methodology of education on political theory
for university students and innovation in methods of education on political theory for
students of universities.
Describe the characteristics of the Northern midland and mountainous areas,
the characteristics of universities and their students in the Northern midland and
mountainous areas; analyze the situation of innovation in methods of education on
political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
areas of our country, indicate the achievements, limitations, causes and issues for the
innovation of methods education on political theory for students of universities in the
Northern midland and mountainous areas of our country today.
Propose some viewpoints and major solutions to innovate methods in
education on political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and
mountainous area of Vietnam
4. Subjects and scope of the study
4.1. Subjects of the study
Innovation in methods of education on political theory for students of universities.
3
4.2. Scope of the study
The thesis focuses on the innovation in methods of education on political theory for
students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam.
However, these areas are the largest territory in the country (accounting for 30.5% of
the total area and 14.2% of the total population) with 15 provinces and cities. There
are many universities in these areas, such as Viet Tri University of Industry (Phu
Tho), Hung Vuong University (Phu Tho), Quang Ninh University of Industry (Quang
Ninh), Tan Trao University (Tuyen Quang) Viet Bac University (Thai Nguyen), Thai
Nguyen University (Thai Nguyen) and Tay Bac University (Son La), etc. Therefore,
for this research, the author mainly studies the status of innovating in methods of
education on political theory for fulltime university students through a survey at
Thai Nguyen University (a regional university with 11 training units, including 7
universities) in the midlands and Tay Bac University in the Northern mountainous
area. These are the largest universities in terms of organizational structure and the
number of students. For this reason, these universities can be representative of the
Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam.
The dissertation examines the issue of innovating methods of education on
political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area of Vietnam in the period from 2009 to present. 2009 was the time when
universities began to move to a new creditbased training system that required the need
to innovate educational content, programs, methods and facilities. Besides, this is also
the year in which the curriculum of the political theory subjects was reduced from five
subjects to three subjects: the basic principles of MarxismLeninism (based on the
integration of three subjects which are three sets MarxismLeninism), Ho Chi Minh
ideology and Revolution Lines of Vietnam Communist Party.
5. Rationale, practice and methodology of the study
The dissertation is based on the theories of MarxismLeninism and Ho Chi
Minh’s Thought; the views of the Communist Party, resolutions and directives of the
Party, the laws of the State on education, training, education on political theory and
4
innovation in methods of education on political theory. It selectively receives and
inherits the results of relevant scientific researches both domestically and internationally.
The dissertation is based on the reality of education on political theory in
universities in our country; the process of innovation in methods of education on
political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
areas of our country. It is also based on the system of documents and data archived by
agencies and units and the results of the actual survey by the author.
The dissertation uses a combination of scientific research methods, including
analytical and synthesis methods, logic and history, psychology, and pedagogy such as
system structure, expert, statistics, comparison, investigation, observation, information
collection ... In particular, in order to serve thesis research, the sociological survey
method was mainly used through ANKET questionnaire for lecturers (100 votes) and
students (1400 votes). After obtaining the results of the sociological investigation, the
author shall synthesize, classify, analyze data, draw up models and graphs in order to
compare, contrast and draw objective conclusions as basis for the dissertation.
6. New scientific contribution of the study
The thesis has made significant contributions to the systematization,
interpretation and clarification of theoretical issues on: methods of education on political
theory and innovation in methods of education on political theory for students of
universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam. At the same
time, the thesis clarifies the reality in innovating the method of education on political
theory in universities in the Northern midland and mountainous areas of Vietnam in the
recent time. From that point, it provides some proper evaluations on the advantages and
limitations and issues for the innovation in methods of education on political theory for
students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous areas of Vietnam.
Based on that, it proposes a number of key ideas and solutions to further innovate the
effective methods of education on political theory for students of universities in the
Northern midland and mountainous area.
7. The practical implications of the study
The research results of this dissertation contribute to the increase of knowledge
about the methods of education on political theory and innovation in methods of
education on political theory for students of universities.
The research results of the dissertation contribute to the reliable and scientific
materials for teaching, studying, researching and leading educational activities in
universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam in particular and
universities in Vietnam in general.
5
The research results of the dissertation contribute to the development of some
major solutions to innovate the methods of education on political theory for students of
universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam our country
today.
8. Structure of study
The thesis includes: introduction, overview of the research related to the
dissertation, 3 chapters, 7 periods, conclusions, list of references and appendices.
OVERVIEW OF THE RESEARCHES RELATED TO THE DISSERTATION
I. Vietnamese scientific researches
A. Studies on idealogical work and education on political theory
* Studies on idealogical work
Books: Ha Hoi (chief author), Ngo Van Thao (2002), Innovating and improving
the quality and effectiveness of the idealogical work, National Political Publishing
House, Hanoi; Dao Duy Quat (2004), On the idealogical work of the Communist Party
of Vietnam, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi; Luong Khac Hieu (chief
author), (2008), Principles of the idealogical work Volume1,2, National Political
Publishing House, Hanoi; Pham Tat Thang (chief author) (2010), Renovation of the
idealogical work and political theory for the sake of national construction and defense,
National Political Publishing House, Hanoi; Nguyen Danh Tien (chief author), (2010),
The Communist Party led the idealogical work in the renovation period, National
Political Publishing House, Hanoi; Ngo Huy Tiep (2011), Theoretical issues of the
idealogical work of our Party today, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi.
Scientific articles: Nguyen Phu Trong, “Improving the quality and effectiveness
of the idealogical work in the new situation”, Journal of Thought and Culture no.
8/1999; Huu Tho, "From the reality, think more deeply about the idealogical work ",
Information on the idealogical work no. 3/2001; Nguyen Khoa Diem, "Continuing to
accelerate the implementation of the central resolution of the year on the main tasks of
thought and theoretical work in the new situation", Information on the idealogical work
No. 1/2005; Luong Khac Hieu, "study on oral propagation in the history of the
Vietnamese, Journal of Thought and Culture, No. 1/2001; Thai Hoa (2015), "Promoting
the role of the idealogical work in selfcriticism and criticism", Journal of Propaganda
and Education, (9) ...
* Educational researches on education on political theory
Book: Vu Ngoc Am (2003), Renovation in the work of political thought
education for officers; Tran Thi Anh Dao (chief author), (2010), Education on political
theory for Vietnamese students today, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi.
6
Scientific articles: Bui Dinh Phong, (2009), "The role of Ho Chi Minh’s
thought in adult education, Journal of Propaganda and Education, (9); Hoang Thao,
(2011), "To improve the effectiveness of education on political theory in police schools
in Hanoi, Journal of Propaganda and Education, (9); Vu Ngoc Am, (2011),
"Effectiveness and criteria for evaluating education on political theory", Journal of
Propaganda and Education, (11), ...
B. Studies on methods and innovation in methods of education on political
theory for university students
Book: Nguyen Duy Bac (chief author) (2004), Some theoretical and practical
issues in teaching and learning Philosophy of Marxism and Leninism and Ho Chi
Minh’s Thought in universities, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi; Vietnamese
Universities and Colleges (VUN), Academy of Journalism and Communication (2004),
Methodology of teaching learning, testing and assessment of humanities and social
sciences, Political Theory Publishing House, Ha Noi; The Hoang Quoc Bao, Learning
Revolutionary Methods of Ho Chi Minh Revolution (2006, National Political Publishing
House, Hanoi; Vu Ngoc Am (2009), Some problems in methods of education on
political theory, News Agency Publishing House, Hanoi; Pham Huy Ky (2010),
Theoretical and Methodological Research on education on political theory, National
PoliticalAdministrative Publishing House, Hanoi; Hoang Chi Bao (2011),
Understanding Ho Chi Minh Method, PoliticalAdministrative Publishing House, Hanoi.
Scientific articles: Nguyen Thanh Khai (2009), "Innovation in teaching
methods at Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics and Public Administration,
Journal of Political Theory, (9), Hanoi; Dang Thi Nhiet Thu (2010), "Innovation in
methods of teaching political theory in universities and colleges", Journal of Political
Science, (3), Hanoi; Bui Van Ga (2015), "Issues in fundamental and comprehensive
reform in university education", Journal of Propaganda and Education, (5), Hoang
Quoc Bao (2015), “Ho Chi Minh’s thought on methods of improving propaganda
effectiveness”, Journal of Propaganda and Education, (9) ...
II. Some scientific researches of foreign countries
A. The Lao People's Democratic Republic
The Lao People's Democratic Republic has many scientific researches on
education on political theory for officers and Party members. Typical examples are:
Doctoral Dissertation of Philosophy BY Bun Phiet Xu Ly Vong Xac (1994), Raising
theoretical thinking for members of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party in the current
period, Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, Hanoi; Bun ket – Ke son (2006),
Raising the moral ethics of key officials of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in the
present period, Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, Hanoi. [20]
7
Articles and magazines: Bun Nhang Vo Luu Chit (2005), “Improving the quality
of building and fostering officers and leaders to meet the requirements of the Party's
innovation” on Journal of Lao Theory and Administration (No. 1); The article by Tra
Lon Nhia Pao Ho (2005), "Ten years with the development of the Lao National
Academy of Politics and Administration", Lao Journal of Theory and Administration
(No. 1), a paper written by Sa Mut Thong Som Pha Nit (2007), "Role of teachers in new
conditions", Lao Journal of Theory and Administration (No. 6) ...
B. The People's Republic of China
Many Chinese scholars have done a lot of research on the idealogical work,
education on political theory, teaching methods and innovation in methods of education
on political theory such as Uong Tin Nghien (2003), “Three methodologies in studying
Chinese Marxist Philosophy” published in the Journal of Chinese Philosophy, No. 12;
Ho Tu Luc (2004), “New thinking on education on political theory in universities”, The
Journal of Ha Nam College of Taxation Finance, (Vol 2, No. 18); Education on
political theory education for students has the article “Tips from teaching the Marxist
theory” (Journal of Marketing No. 24/2005, translated by Nguyen Duc Sam in the
magazine Politicalsocial issues, No. 16/2006); Vuong Bot Binh, "Some issues on the
idealogical work by the Chinese Communist Party in the new situation”, published in
Journal of Political Thought Research, No. 32006; Vuong Yen, "Raising theory and
competence of political and thought work in the new situation", published in the Journal
of Chinese Communist Party History, October 2007; Dr. Ly Kien's doctoral dissertation
(2013), Research and assessment of student qualities; Hoang A Loi's doctoral
dissertation (2014), Current status, visual and political values of students and research
on educational strategies.
III. Achievements and issues for further study
A. Achievements
The abovementioned scientific researches have focused on studying and
systematizing the theoretical issues: the idealogical work , the work of education on
political theory and the work of education on political theory for Vietnamese students. In
particular, some of the researches focus on the different aspects of education on political
theory for undergraduate students in our country today from which solutions have been
developed to innovate and improve the quality of education on political theory for
students today.
There have been studies on methods and innovation in methods of education
on political theory for university students. However, most of the studies focus on
innovation in methods of education on political theory, innovation in methods of
teaching and learning education on political theory, innovation in methods of testing and
8
assessment of learning outcomes. There are studies on the methods of education on
political theory. However, they approached from the perspective of other sciences such
as pedagogics and psychology, etc.
B. Issues for further study
Theoretical issues of methodology and innovation in methods of education on
political theory for students should be generalized and systematized by approaching the
idealogical work. The thesis further clarifies the theoretical issues on: methods of
education on political theory and innovation in methods of education on political theory
for students with a focus on clarifying goals, principles, and criteria for assessing the
innovation in methods of education on political theory for university students.
The thesis approaches the innovation in methods of education on political theory
on the following criteria: Innovation on the basis of application of new methods of
education on political theory for students; Partial innovation in current methods of
education on political theory educational for students; Innovation on the basis of
diversification and integration of methods of education on political theory for students.
The research and evaluation on the reality of innovation in methods of
education on political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and
mountainous areas of Vietnam must now pay attention to the characteristics of subjects.
The subjects of education on political theory in this dissertation are students of ethnic
minorities in the midland and mountainous area in the North, an area of economic,
political, cultural and social importance, national security and defense of the country;
This area also has difficult economic conditions with the majority of population is ethnic
minorities. Therefore, it is necessary to research and innovate the methods of education
on political theory for university students in order to improve the effectiveness of
education on political theory for students.
The dissertation studies and proposes effective ideas and solutions to innovate
teaching methods to improve the quality and effectiveness of education on political
theory for students at universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of
Vietnam.
Chapter 1
THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ISSUES OF INNOVATION IN METHODS
OF EDUCATION ON POLITICAL THEORY FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS OF
VIETNAM
1.1. The methods of education on political theory for university students
1.1.1. The concept of political theory and education on political theory for
university students
1.1.1.1. Political theory
9
Theory is a system of concepts, categories and rules which are generalized from
objective reality. It reflects the level of human awareness and improvement of the
objective world. Theory is the result of human subjective perception of events and
phenomena in the objective world.
Political theory is a system of knowledge in the political domain which expresses
the attitudes and interests of a class to the State power in a classed society, outlined by
scientific research and practical political activities.
2.1.1.2. Education on political theory for university students
Education is a social phenomenon. The nature of education is the transmission
and acquisition of knowledge and experience accumulated in the history of human society.
Education contributes to raising the level of human awareness and improvement of the
world. Since then, human society has ceaselessly developed.
Education on political theory is an important part of the idealogical work of the
Party. This is the activity of propagating amd absorbing MarxismLeninism, Ho Chi
Minh's thoughts, lines, views of the Party, policies and laws of the State for officers,
members of the Party and people in order to raise the theoretical awareness, the formation
of the scientific world view, communist life, methods of dialectical and scientific thinking
and working, contributing to raising and promoting sociopolitical activism in practice.
Students are a part of the youth who are studying and practicing in universities
and colleges to improve their professional skills as well as to cultivate themselves to
improve themselves.
Education on political theory for students is the activity of spreading and
absorbing the basic principles of MarxismLeninism, Ho Chi Minh's thoughts, the Party's
lines, policies and laws of the State in order to raise the political awareness, form the
scientific world view, communist life, methods of dialectical and scientific thinking and
working, contributing to promoting sociopolitical activism for students in practice.
Teaching education on political theory is a specialized education on political
theory that brings highquality education to students in universities.
1.1.2. Methodology and methods of education on political theory for university
students
1.1.2.1. Methodology
Methodology is a system of methods and manipulation to adjust human cognition
and action in practical activities.
1.1.2.2. Methods of education on political theory
Methods of education on political theory is a system of modes and activities that
the educational subjects use for the purpose of propagation and the objects of education
use to acquire the content of education on political theory in accordance with the nature
10
and rules of the education program to form the scientific world view, communist life,
methods of dialectical and scientific thinking and working, contributing to promoting
sociopolitical activism for students in practice.
Characteristics of methods of education on political theory for university
students:
Classification of methods of education on political theory for university students:
+ Based on the means of using the educational methods, there are: speech methods
group, visual methods group, and practical methods group.
+ Based on the subjects involved in education, there are: method of school
education, method of family education and method of social education.
+ Based on the content of education, there are: method of education on Marxism
Leninism political thought and Ho Chi Minh’s thought, method of education on guidelines
of the Party, policies and laws of the State, method of educating knowledge and political
experience in the country and the world.
+ Based on the advanced nature of the method, there are: traditional method and
modern method.
+ Based on the nature and method of absorption of subjects, there are: passive
method and positive method.
1.2. Innovation in methods of education on political theory for university
students
1.2.1. Concept of innovation and innovation in methods of education on
political theory for university students
1.2.1.1. Innovation and innovation in higher education
1.2.1.2. Innovation in methods of education on political theory for university
students
Innovation in methods of education on political theory for university students is a
fundamental and systematic replacement of the existing modes and activities of the subject
and the object of education by means of new methods and activities which are in line with
the nature and rules of the education process in order to bring greater effectiveness in
education on political theory and to achieve education goals on political theory for
university students.
1.2.2. Objectives and principles of innovation in methods of education on
political theory for university students
1.2.2.1. The objective of innovation in methods of education on political theory
for university students
Objectives: Comprehensively innovate towards modern methods; promote the
positive, active, creative and theoretical use in practice for students; focus on learning how
11
to study, think, encourage selflearning, create a basis for students to update themselves
and renew knowledge, skills, capacity development to improve quality and effectiveness
of education on political theory for university students.
1.2.2.2. The principle of innovating methods of political theory to students of
universities
Innovation in methods of education on political theory must be inherited.
Innovation in methods of education on political theory must link with practice.
Innovation in methods of education on political theory must be based on a
learnercentered basis.
Innovation in methods of education on political theory must have a proper
roadmap.
1.2.3. Content for assessing the innovation in methods of education on political
theory for university students
1.2.3.1. Substitution and application of new and modern methods of education on
political theory for university students
1.2.3.2. Partial changes in existing methods of education on political theory for
university students
1.2.3.3. Diversification and integration of methods of education on political theory
for university students
Summary of chapter 1
In the process of fundamental and comprehensive innovation of education and
training, the innovation of education on political theory is set to be one of the key tasks in
which innovation in methods of education on political theory is particularly valued.
Based on the research results of the scientists, the thesis has systematized,
developed and clarified a number of theoretical issues on the methods of education on
political theory and the innovation in methods of education on political theory for students
of universities in our country today. Particularly, the dissertation has focused on clarifying
the concepts, goals and principles of innovation, the criteria for evaluating the innovation
in methods of education on political theory university students. In addition, Content for
for evaluating the innovation in methods of education on political theory university
students includes: (1) The degree of substitution and application of new and modern
methods of education on political theory for university students; (2) The degree of partial
changes in existing methods of education on political theory for university students; (3)
Level of diversification and integration of methods of education on political theory for
university students. This is an important theoretical basis for the thesis to survey and
12
evaluate the status of innovation in methods of education on political theory for students
of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam.
Chapter 2
CURRENT SITUATION AND ISSUES INNOVATION IN METHODS OF
EDUCATION ON POLITICAL THEORY FOR STUDENTS OF UNIVERSITIES
IN THE NORTHERN MIDLAND AND MOUNTAINOUS AREA OF VIETNAM
2.1. Characteristics of universities and students of universities in the
Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam
2.1.1. The characteristics of universities in the Northern midland and
mountainous area of Vietnam (universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area of Vietnam mentioned here include Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac
University)
Thai Nguyen University was established on April 4, 1994 under Decree No.
31CP of the Government on the reorganization of universities in Thai Nguyen city, a
center for training human resources for provinces, universities, colleges and vocational
schools in the region, at the same time carrying out the tasks of scientific research and
technology transfer, making an important contribution to the socioeconomic
development in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam. Over the past
20 years of perseverance, Thai Nguyen University has strived for the direction of the
Government, constantly grown up in all aspects and better met the requirements of
human resource training as well as scientific and technological research. Additionally, it
has served effectively for the socioeconomic development of the Northern midlandand
mountainous area of Vietnam and step by step affirmed its position and role as a regional
university in the education and training system and in the process of industrialization and
modernization of the country.
Tay Bac University has a long history and tradition of education and training for
ethnic minorities of Thai Meo autonomous region (formerly) in particular and the North
West region in general. Tay Bac University was established in 1960 with many times of
renaming and moving to many different places in Son La province. Up to now, with over
55 years of establishment, development and growth, it has a new spacious premise and
increasingly modern equipment which meet the needs of learning and research of teachers
and students. It is worth being the leading center for training and scientific research in the
Northwest region.
2.1.2. Characteristics of university students in the Northern midland and
mountainous area
13
Students of Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac University are mostly children
of the Northern midland and mountainous provinces with a majority of students are ethnic
minority and disadvantaged. Most of them are studious and determined in their study.
However, this is an area of difficult economic conditions and the political awareness of a
part of the people is limited so students are susceptible to be propagated and manipulated
by hostile forces, which negatively affects the education on political theory in
universities.
The number of university students in the midland and mountain areas in the North
is high. Thai Nguyen University has more than 90,000 students, including 56,753 fulltime
undergraduate students (school year 20142015). Tay Bac University has 7,155 fulltime
students, including 5,092 undergraduate students (school year 20142015).
2.2. The current situation of innovation in methods of education on political
theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of
Vietnam
2.2.1. Results and causes
2.2.1.1. Result
Based on the criteria for innovation in methods of education on political theory
mentioned above, we can examine the results obtained in the process of innovation in
methods of education on political theory for students in universities in the Northern
midland and mountainous area.
Firstly, innovation in methods of education on political theory on the basis of
applying new and modern teaching methods for university students.
Innovation in methods of teachers of education on political theory: Some teachers
of education on political theory have had certain innovations in their methods of education
on political theory for students and have had inherited selective new and modern but not
yet popular teaching methods.
Innovation in methods of students of education on political theory: Some students
have innovated their knowledge acquisition methods towards the creation of new and
personalized learning methods. A part of the students has applied new and modern
methods in the process of acquiring education on political theory.
In conclusion, innovation in methods of education on political theory on the basis
of the application of modern methods has achieved positive results. According to the
survey results, the degree of innovation in methods on the basis of the application of new
methods of education on political theory at the universities in the Northern midland and
mountainous area showed that the percent of teachers with new methods account for
4.17%, the percent of teachers using new and modern methods account for 40.83%, the
percent of students is respectively 2.36% and 30.14%.
14
Second, partial innovation in existing methods of education on political theory
for students.
For the teachers of education on political theory: Teachers of education on
political theory have made changes in the concept of innovation in methods of education
on political theory in the direction of partially innovating the existing methods. They have
made great attempt in innovating the use of traditional educational methods for their
students.
For the students of education on political theory: A portion of students have a
sense of innovation in their traditional learning methods in order to adapt to the process of
innovation in methods of education on political theory in universities. Additionally, self
learning methods of students have been actively applied in new educational conditions.
The results of the survey show that the current level of partial innovation in existing
methods of education on political theory is 30% in teachers and 64.21% in students.
These are not very satisfactory results, but showed positive signs in the process of
innovating the methods of education on political theory by teachers and students in the
Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam.
Third, innovation on the basis of diversifying and integrating methods of education
on political theory for university students.
For the teachers of education on political theory: Teachers have diversified and
integrated a variety of methods of education on political theory for students. Initially they
have flexibly combined the methods associated with the effective use of modern
educational facilities.
For the students of education on political theory: Students are able to use a variety
of methods during the acquisition of political theory. Some students use a combination of
positive learning methods with the use of new and modern means of learning political
theory.
Innovation on the basis of diversifying and integrating various methods is a major
trend in the innovation in methods of education on political theory for students at
universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area. According to the survey,
75.83% of teachers and 60.79% of students have used a variety of integrated methods of
transmitting and acquiring political theory.
2.2.1.2. Causes of the result
Subjective reasons:
The attention of the Party Committee, the Board of Rectors in innovation in
methods of education on political theory for students.
The effort and attempt in innovating methods of university teachers and students
in the Northern midland and mountainous area.
15
Objective reasons:
The attention of the Party and State towards the innovation of teaching and
learning methods in higher education institutions
Significant achievements of the country's renovation process; the positive aspects
of globalization, international integration and the evolution of science and technology
revolution are important factors contributing to the innovation in methods of education on
political theory in universities.
2.2.2. Limitations and causes
2.2.2.1. Limitations
First, the restriction of the innovation in methods of education on political theory
on the basis of applying new and modern methods.
For the teachers of education on political theory: The teachers of education on
political theory have not yet created many new methods to meet the needs of students. The
ability to use new methods of some teachers is limited and the number of new methods is
not high.
For the students of education on political theory: Only a small number of students
have the ability to create new methods in acquiring new political theory. The students’
ability to use new methods in the acquisition of political theory is still limited and the
frequency of use is still low.
The results of the survey of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area show that the number of teachers and students who innovate the methods on the basis
of creating new methods is not high, accounting for only 4.17% and 2.36% respectively.
The use of new methods in transmitting and receiving political still face obstacles due to
many reasons, so the effectiveness is not high.
Second, the limitation of the partial innovation in current methods of education on
political theory for students.
For the teachers of education on political theory: The perception of a part of
leaders and managers over the innovation in methods of education on political theory is
still simplistic. In other words, they consider the method innovation as a negative
approach to existing methods. The process of partial innovation in methods of education
on political theory is slow and ineffective.
For the students of education on political theory: The method of acquiring political
theory of a part of students is still passive, dependable, lazy and therefore ineffective.
Many students are slow to innovate their learning methods, so they do not have effective
selfstudy and research methods.
At present, in universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area, the
majority of teachers and students of education on political theory are innovating their
16
methods based on the partial innovation of existing methods. In particular, students mostly
use traditional methods and are slower to innovate their methods than the teachers.
According to survey data, 77,5% of students have no awareness of innovating the methods
of acquiring education on political theory, 80,83% of students do not have effective self
study and research methods, 67,5% of students have passive way of learning and lazy
thinking.
Third, the constraints of innovation on the basis of diversifying and integrating
methods of education on political theory for students.
For the teachers of education on political theory: The use of diversified methods of
education on political theory for students is limited. Additionally, the innovation in
methods only uses traditional methods combined with modern means of education. The
integration of methods in education on political theory for students is still embarrassing.
Moreover, integrated methods are not smooth and suitable for the content.
For the students of education on political theory: In the process of studying
political theory, many students mainly use traditional methods. They are unable to
combine modern methods in a proficient and effective way. The integration of methods in
studying studying political theory of students still faces a number of difficulties. Many
students have not been able to innovate their acquisition of political theory in connection
with the effective use of modern educational facilities.
Thus, the innovation on the basis of diversifying and integrating methods of
education on political theory for students is a major trend in universities in the Northern
midland and mountainous area. However, from the teachers and students, the process of
innovation has some limitations. In detail, students are slower in innovating their methods
towards diversification and integration than the teachers, especially in terms of flexible
use of the methods which are linked to the effective use of modern and new means of
education.
Thus, the innovation on the basis of diversifying and integrating methods of
education on political theory for students is a major trend in universities in the Northern
midland and mountainous area. However, from the teachers and the students, the process
of innovation has some limitations. In detail, students are slower in innovating their
methods towards diversification and integration than the teachers, especially in terms of
flexible use of the methods which is linked to the effective use of modern and new means
of education.
2.2.2.2. Cause of the restriction
Subjective reasons:
The awareness of innovation in methods of education on political theory by both
teachers and students is limited.
17
The coordination among teachers in innovating the method of education on
political theory for students is not tight and frequent.
The quality of teaching staff has not met the current requirements of the
innovation in methods of education on political theory.
The motivation and learning attitude of a part of undergraduate students have not
yet been active in terms of innovating learning methods.
Objective reasons:
The content and educational program of political theory for students have not
been innovated in time with the requirements of innovation in education on political
theory.
The technical conditions and facilities have not met the current requirement of
innovation in education of education on political theory.
The plot of "peaceful evolution" by hostile forces is mostly in the field of culture
and thought for young people and students.
The limitations and shortcomings of the country's renovation process and the
adverse impacts of the market mechanism, globalization and international integration in
our country today.
2.3. The issues for the innovation in methods of education on political theory
for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area
2.3.1. The awareness of the importance of innovating methods of education on
political theory has not been in line with the urgent need to innovate methods of
education on political theory in the current period.
2.3.2. The degree of innovation in methods of education on political theory for
students is still slow compared to the need to rapidly and promptly innovate the methods
of higher education today.
2.3.3. The conditions for innovation are not synchronous, which fails to motivate
the teachers and students in innovating their methods to the requirements of the
innovation in methods of education on political theory.
Conclusion of chapter 2
By analyzing and evaluating the current situation of innovation in methods of
education on political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and
mountainous area of our country, it can be concluded that the innovation in methods of
education on political theory has been implemented and achieved remarkable results.
These are encouraging signals that the process of innovating methods of education on
political theory for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area
is going in depth and meets the requirements of fundamental and comprehensive
innovation of education and training in our country today.
18
However, the thesis also points out the limitations and inadequacies in the process
of innovating methods of education on political theory for students of universities in the
Northern midland and mountainous area today such as: the use of new methods which
includes the creation of completely new methods has not yet been diverse; the innovation
in methods on the basis of creatively inheriting and applying traditional methods is
limited; the integration and diversification of methods are still embarrassing. From the
analysis of the causes of limitations and inadequacies in innovating methods of education
on political theory for students in universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area at present, there are problems and contradictions as the following: (1) the awareness
of the importance of innovation in methods of education on political theory is not in line
with the urgent need to innovate methods of education on political theory in the current
period; (2) the degree of innovation in methods of education on political theory for
students is slower than the need to innovate the higher education methods rapidly and
timely; (3) the conditions for innovation in methods of education on political theory are
not synchronized, which fails to motivate the teachers and students in innovating their
methods to the requirements of the innovation in methods of education on political theory.
Chapter 3
PERSPECTIVES AND SOLUTIONS TO PROMOTE THE INNOVATION IN
METHODS OF EDUCATION ON POLITICAL THEORY FOR STUDENTS OF
UNIVERSITIES IN THE NORTHERN MIDLAND AND MOUNTAINOUS AREA
OF VIETNAM
3.1. Perspectives on innovation
3.1.1. Innovation in methods of education on political theory must be
associated with the innovation and improvement of the quality of the managers and
teachers of political education
3.1.2. Innovation in methods of education on political theory must be carried
out simultaneously with the comprehensive innovation of the content and the program
of political education
3.1.3. Innovation in methods of education on political theory must be
associated with the innovation of the educational management mechanism and
technical conditions and facilities
3.2. Solutions to innovation
3.2.1. Group of solutions to raise awareness of managers, teachers and students
on the importance and necessity of innovating the methods of political education in
the Northern midland and mountainous area
3.2.1.1. Raising the awareness of managers and teachers
19
It is necessary to continue to raise the awareness of the Party Committee and the
Board of Rectors of universities about the innovation in methods of education on
political theory for students, especially in universities which do not train Marxism –
Leninism and Ho Chi Minh’s thought, so that the university leaders are able to propose
appropriate policies to enhance the innovation, improve the quality and effectiveness of
education on political theory for students.
It is essential to raise the awareness of functional units and unions in the
universities on the need to innovate methods of education on political theory for
students. In particular, people should be aware of their role and responsibility for
education on political theory, the need for innovating methods and approaches of
education for students in the current period. There should be a coherent, synchronized
and unified cooperation under the leadership and direction of the Party Committee, the
Board of Rectors of universities in innovating teaching methods of education on political
theory for students in the spirit of taking learners at the center as well as considering
them as both an object and an educational goal.
It is necessary to raise awareness of teachers about the requirements and
urgency of innovation in methods of education on political theory. Each teacher should
be aware of the tremendous role of innovation in methods of education on political
theory from which they constantly learn and apply new teaching methods and active
teaching methods aiming at learners. In addition, the teachers also need to cultivate
revolutionary virtue, professionalism, enthusiasm and teaching passion.
3.2.1.2. Raising the awareness of students
The majority of students in the past have been conscious of innovating their
learning methods. However, there are still a large number of students who are still
limited and inadequate in innovating their learning methods due to their improper
awareness. This is also one of the reasons for the limited and ineffective quality of
education on political theory.
3.2.2. Group of solutions to innovate methods of education on political theory
of teachers and students
3.2.2.1. Solutions to innovate methods of education on political theory of
teachers
Firstly, the Party Committee, the Board of Rectors, Departments and Faculties
should continue to innovate methods of education on political theory for students.
Educational leaders and managers should continue to vigorously pay attention
and innovate methods of education on political theory for students. Universities need to
speed up the process of implementing the guidelines, policies of the Party and the State
on innovation of education on political theory in general and innovation in methods of
20
education on political theory in particular. Universities should soon issue guidance
documents that assist the faculties and divisions to innovate the methods of education on
political theory to the students. Functional departments need to pay attention to building
plans, offering various forms of propaganda and education on political theory for
students. In particular, attention should be paid to the extracurricular activities, practical
subjects and professional practice which are associated with the propaganda and
education of patriotic traditions, traditions of revolutionary struggles and local history
for students. It is necessary to make teaching and learning schedules, timetables and
exam schedules in accordance with the content and curriculum of the education on
political theory courses. In addition, universities need to develop and effectively
organize their academic advisors who will be an important force to help promote the
students’ acquisition process of education on political theory.
Training should be provided to improve the use of new methods for teachers of
political theory in universities. Universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area have taken care of, fostered and developed both quantity and quality of the officials
and teachers who are involved in education on political theory. Prior to the requirements
to improve the quality and efficiency of education on political theory in the new
situation, the care and task of building officials and teachers on education on political
theory is urgent with fundamental and longterm significance.
Innovation in methods of resolution sessions, listening to the political – social
news and initial political studies.
Secondly, methods of education on political theory should be innovated.
The way in which methods of education on political theory are used should be
innovated. Teachers need to constantly research, study and regularly apply new and
active teaching methods into education on political theory to students. In particular, it is
necessary to focus on updating lectures in the teachers’ classroom because lectures in
class are still the main stage for students to receive scientific knowledge which is closely
related to other stages such as selfstudy and research. Teachers need to have good
discussions, which are considered to be an important part of the current creditbased
curriculum in universities.
The methods of examination and evaluation should be innovated. The
examination and evaluation are an important stage in the teaching process at the
universities. This will be the basis for assessment and classification of students. It is
necessary to change the students’ perception on study for the score. In addition, it is
essential to focus on all aspects of the process of examining and evaluating students'
learning outcomes from contents and forms to approaches of organizing the examination
and evaluation in order to avoid the situation of injustice.
21
Innovation in methods of education on political theory should be closely linked
to the task of teachers’ scientific research. Scientific research should be promoted in the
faculties and division of education on political theory. Teachers ought to regularly
update information on the situation and new research directions on education on political
theory domestically and internationally. Assignments should be actively given to
students through assignments and essays to help them practice scientific researching.
The method of using example in education on political theory should be applied.
Besides stated solutions, there is also need to pay attention to the method of using
example. This approach has the most positive impact on students, encouraging students
to innovate their learning methods, selfstudy, passion for learning, passion for research,
leading to changes in their perception and actions.
Third, method of education on political theory of organizations should be
innovated. It is necessary to further promote the leadership role of the Ho Chi Minh
Communist Youth Union and the Student Association in organizing and attracting
students into practical sociopolitical activities. Organizations and associations should
have more active content and forms of education. They should educate students to have
the right motivation, selfdiscipline and creativity in learning through emulation
movements. Additionally, they should continue to innovate and develop youth volunteer
activities and green summer among students; promote cultural activities, arts, physical
training and sports such as forums, cultural exchanges, arts and sports, etc. to meet the
cultural exchange needs of students. There is a need for the coherence between family,
university and society in the management of students. It is necessary to understand that
universities will be the nucleus with the family and society in managing and helping
students learn and shape their personality.
3.2.2.2. Solutions to promote the activeness and creativity of students in
innovating methods of education on political theory
Students should be aware of the role of innovating methods of education on
political theory with the formation and development of personal personality from which
students have the motivation, purpose and attitude to innovate their learning method
properly. In order to do this, students need to: engage in new learning approaches as well
as integrate and diversify their methods to acquire higher outcomes of education on
political theory. Innovation in approaching to education on political theory is tied to the
effective use of modern and new means of education and practical socialpolitical
activities and scientific research activities.
3.2.3. Group of solutions on policies and conditions to ensure the innovation
in methods of education on political theory for students
22
It is necessary to innovate educational policy mechanisms for both teachers and
students. There is a need to create all material and spiritual conditions for teachers of
education on political theory, especially those who are improving their professional
qualifications. It is required to strengthen professional training for teachers of education
on political theory; enhance the teachers’ responsibility toward students and have
appropriate regimes and policies to increase their income by their own teaching and
research activities. It is necessary to set up a fair and democratic regulation of reward
and discipline for students in the whole university in general and in the subject of
political theory in particular.
Universities need to take further care of investing in technical and educational
facilities for education on political theory. This is a practical measure that contributes to
improving the quality of education on political theory in general and innovative teaching
methods in particular. Technical and educational facilities should be modernized,
synchronized and standardized in line with the trend of rapid development of science and
technology that the region and the world are facing.
Conclusion of chapter 3
From the survey of the current situation of education on political theory for
students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area over the past few
years, it can be seen that there still have been some limitations and shortcomings in the
process of innovating the methods of education on political theory for students in
universities. In order to further enhance the quality and effectiveness of education on
political theory for students, the thesis offers a number of fundamental and basic
solutions for innovating methods of education on political theory for university students.
It focuses on the following three groups of solutions: (1) a group of solutions to raise the
awareness of managers, teachers and students about the importance and necessity of
teaching innovation; (2) a group of solutions to innovate methods of education on
political theory of the teachers and students; (3) a group of solutions for policy
mechanisms and conditions that guarantee the innovation inmethods of education on
political theory for students.
CONCLUSION
Education on political theory is an important part of education and training at the
university level. It is an objective requirement for the formation and development of
personality for students. From the practical experience of innovating the methods of
political education for students of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous
area in the past, it shows that the process of methodological innovation in the
universities has made some significant achievements. However, there are still limitations
and weaknesses. Therefore, it is necessary to strongly innovate methods of education on
23
political theory for students. This should be considered as an important and urgent task
in universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of Vietnam.
The dissertation has systematically studied the theoretical basis and clarified the
concepts of: methods of education on political theory and innovation in methods of
education on political theory for university students. In particular, the thesis has focused
on clarifying the theoretical issues of innovating methods of education on political
theory for university students such as the concept of innovating methods of education
on political theory for university students; goals, principles and criteria for evaluating the
innovation in methods of education on political theory for students.
The dissertation has clarified the characteristics of universities and their students
in the Northern midland and mountainous area of our country. The thesis has surveyed
the state of innovation in teaching methods of education on political theory for students
of universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area today (through survey at
Thai Nguyen University and Tay Bac University). The thesis has evaluated the achieved
results and causes as well as some limitations. Besides, it has outlined some of the issues
raised in the innovation in methods of education on political theory for students of
universities in the Northern midland and mountainous area of our country in recent
years.
From that, it has set out basic ideas and some key solutions to innovate the
methods of education on political theory for students of universities in the Northern
midland and mountainous area of Vietnam in the coming time. The main groups of
solutions include: a group of solutions to raise the awareness of managers, teachers and
students about the importance and necessity of teaching innovation; a group of solutions
to innovate methods of education on political theory of the teachers and students; a
group of solutions for policy mechanisms and conditions that guarantee the innovation
inmethods of education on political theory for students.