Institution's support needed to help students benefit from scientific research

Scientific research is common in colleges and universities worldwide.

In almost every global university ranking, the quality of scientific research is a crucial criterion determining the ranking of universities.

In Vietnam, scientific research is also emphasized as a key objective in the Law on Higher Education.The target of scientific research encompasses not only faculty members but also students currently enrolled at the institution.

This is reflected in the goal of forming and developing scientific research capabilities for learners, which the institution's Science and Technology activities aim to achieve (Article 39, Clause 2, Law on Higher Education).

Scientific research is a crucial field that requires investment and promotion. Photo courtesy of BUV

However, scientific research with students still faces many limitations, as most students believe it is only suited for certain individuals, with topics often being detached from practical application and not useful in their work.

Additionally, a lack of experience and limited resources from supervising lecturers to materials also contribute to scientific research not being optimally developed in terms of both quantity and quality.

Contrary to the view of many students, scientific research genuinely offers significant value not only for university studies but also for future careers.

Some student research projects have become practical innovations in daily life, gaining recognition within the student community, such as plant disease diagnostic applications, riverbed survey vessels, automatic waste collection machines.

Engaging in scientific research helps students enhance their research skills, work independently, manage time, and seek support. Students involved in scientific research are often more persistent and resilient and develop a proactive, lifelong learning spirit.

This is also the insight shared by Hoang Phuong Thao, one of the winners of the Student Research Contest at the British University Vietnam (BUV).

"Participating in scientific research is an effective way for students like us to advance not only academically but also in our future careers. Successfully conducting scientific research requires many skill factors. Therefore, I see it as a way to assert myself and am very proud of the positive feedback from the expert panel," Thao said.

Phuong Thao presented her research topic from the Student Research Contest. Photo courtesy of BUV

Enhancing engagement in scientific research

The success of students in scientific research necessitates comprehensive support from the university, including academic guidance from faculty and access to extensive library resources, and financial support. These elements are crucial in enabling students to effectively undertake and execute their research endeavors.

BUV is promoting scientific research through its Center for Research and Innovation (CRI).

Under the leadership of Associate Professor Mike Perkins, Head of CRI, the university continuously encourages students and faculty to responsibly integrate AI into their learning and research activities.

Aspiring to lead in the effective integration of AI within education, BUV has developed a simple yet comprehensive AI Assessment Scale.

This initiative lays the groundwork for creating an innovative educational ecosystem that helps students maximize their potential and adapt to the rapidly changing digital society.

Recently, BUV, in collaboration with Swansea University (UK), was honoured to receive an £80,000 grant from the International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF) through the British Council.

This funding supports a research project on generative AI, aimed at enhancing the capacity of Vietnamese educational institutions to fully leverage AI technology in teaching and learning.

Moreover, BUV officially launched Academic Research Clusters (ARCs) that bring together researchers in five key disciplines: Generative AI; Events, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sustainability; Culture, Communication, and Creative Industries; Computing, Games, and Data Science; and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.

Faculty and researchers from BUV and Staffordshire University at the ARCs launch event. Photo courtesy of BUV

This strategic initiative aims to enhance interdisciplinary research, support the development of key areas aligned with BUV’s core values, and promote collaboration to address pressing issues in Vietnam and the region.

Additionally, BUV has a Student Academic Support Centre (SAS) that provides various resources and programs, including personalized lectures and 1-to-1 academic consultations with faculty members and high-achieving senior students to develop both academic and personal skills.

This also serves as a stepping stone to encourage students to actively engage in scientific research.

An Quynh Trang, a winner in BUV’s scientific research competition, noted the support she received from the university.

"I received extensive help from lecturer Jed Clarke from Finance and Accounting, from drafts to the final research. The team at SAS was also a great source of encouragement and support, helping me gain confidence to complete the scientific research and win," Trang said.

Support from her lecturer and the university helped Quynh Trang complete her research project with excellence. Photo courtesy of BUV

During the Symposium Research Week organized by BUV and Staffordshire University in the U.K., Quynh Trang and Phuong Thao received much praise from experts, which served as motivation for them to continue excelling in their research activities.

According to Professor Raymond Gordon, Vice-Chancellor and President of BUV, commitment to pioneering research is central to the university’s academic mission and plays a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between the U.K. and Vietnam.

"The active participation of BUV students in research activities not only enriches their academic experience but also exemplifies the profound impact of our partnership and demonstrates the potential of its collaborative future," Gordon said.

With its unwavering efforts to advance scientific research, BUV not only equips students with a solid foundation of professional knowledge but also ignites a passion for discovery and creativity.

The vibrant research environment at BUV, coupled with international collaboration opportunities, is cultivating a generation of confident and dynamic students, ready to contribute to the advancement of science and society.