Fostering Innovation in Language Teaching and Research: Associate Professor Jonathan Newton’s Visit to UEH
09 Aug, 2025
From 28 July to 8 August, Associate Professor Jonathan Newton, Engagement Director at Victoria University of Wellington, visited the School of Foreign Languages, College of Economics, Law, and Government (University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City) as part of the School’s Fellowship Program. His visit featured a series of rich academic activities designed to strengthen research capacity, foster professional development, and promote innovative teaching practices.
On 1 August, Associate Professor Newton delivered a training workshop on Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) titled Designing Effective Tasks: How Can AI Help?. The event attracted over 40 English lecturers from the School of Foreign Languages and other universities in Ho Chi Minh City. Participants explored how AI tools can enhance task design, create more engaging learning experiences, and support effective language learning outcomes.
The workshop attracted a large number of English lecturers
On 4 August, he hosted a research sharing roundtable with lecturers from the School who are currently pursuing their Ph.D. degrees. Conducted in the informal yet collegial format of a sharing lunch, the session allowed participants to discuss their research journeys and challenges. Professor Newton listened attentively to their experiences and offered constructive advice on research design, academic writing, and publication strategies.
An open lunch talk with PhD lecturers on research design, writing, and publishing
On 6 August, Associate Professor Newton turned his attention to students, leading a workshop titled How to Successfully Navigate the Research Process. The session brought together more than 20 students from the School of Foreign Languages and other Schools at UEH University. Students learned about the key steps in undertaking a small-scale research project, strategies for managing research scope, and techniques for identifying and narrowing down research problems. The workshop also provided guidance on formulating strong research questions and showcased examples of sound research design.
Guiding students to define research problems and design effective projects.
Associate Professor Newton’s visit was met with enthusiasm from both staff and students, who valued the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and gain practical insights from an experienced scholar and educator. His contributions have further strengthened the School’s commitment to advancing academic excellence and fostering a vibrant research culture.
A warm wrap-up to an inspiring visit at UEH
From insightful workshops to inspiring discussions, his time at the School of Foreign Languages – UEH brought fresh perspectives to language teaching and research. We truly value this opportunity to learn, share, and grow together.
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New, photos: School of Foreign Languages
