Lam Dong builds a comprehensive foreign language learning environment

Dynamic lessons

English lessons at Thang Long Primary School in Dong Gia Nghia Ward are no longer centred solely on vocabulary and grammar. Instead, students work in groups, role-play, give presentations, take part in language games, use online learning platforms and apply artificial intelligence (AI) tools to practise pronunciation and communication.

According to Nguyen Thi Xuan Lan, an English teacher at the school, creating an environment where students feel confident using the language is a priority. The school has introduced bilingual signs, learning corners, extracurricular activities, group activities and themed competitions to increase students' exposure to English.

"What matters is not how many new words students can memorise, but whether they are willing to speak and communicate. Regular practice makes them much more confident. Teachers also need to innovate so that every lesson becomes an experience," Lan said.

At Doan Thi Diem Primary School in Kien Duc Commune, teachers are being trained to use AI to search for information, design lessons, create animated characters and mind maps, generate voice-based smart notes and support classroom management. Popular tools such as Canva and PowerPoint are also being used to turn dry lesson content into more engaging and visual learning materials.

Trinh Thi Hong, Principal of Doan Thi Diem Primary School, said the school encourages teachers to use technology to reduce lesson preparation time and incorporate more visuals, audio and communication scenarios into their classes.

"The ultimate goal is still to create an environment where students can use English more often, rather than simply learning it to take tests," Hong said.

Strengthening foreign language teaching and learning

Building on progress made across schools, the Lam Dong Department of Education and Training has issued a plan to implement the project "Strengthening Foreign Language Teaching and Learning for 2025 - 2035, with a Vision to 2045."

A key focus is enhancing teacher training in the use of digital learning platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) for foreign language education. The province also aims to strengthen partnerships with businesses and digital education organisations to provide schools with modern learning platforms.

The plan seeks to expand international cooperation through teacher training programmes, student exchanges and partnerships with foreign educational institutions. More foreign-language activities and exchange programmes will also be organised to give teachers and students regular opportunities to practise their language skills.

At the same time, the education sector will strengthen monitoring and evaluation of implementation across localities and incorporate the project into annual professional assessments. It will also recognise organisations and individuals with outstanding achievements in foreign language teaching and learning.

Local authorities are encouraged to mobilise additional resources and investment to expand access to foreign language education, particularly for students in disadvantaged areas.

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Lam Dong aims for 100% of eligible public preschools in Class I and II urban areas to introduce children to English. The province will also expand French teaching and pilot Cambodian language classes at two lower secondary schools in border areas.
For vocational and continuing education, the province aims for 80% of centres to offer English courses. In 2027, Lam Dong plans to allocate VND 5.219 billion to implement the plan, including VND810 million from the central government budget and VND 4.409 billion from the local budget.

Under the implementation plan for the project "Strengthening Foreign Language Teaching and Learning for 2025 - 2035, with a Vision to 2045"