The Impact of Digital Transformation on Teaching at Van Hien University
1. Introduction
In the 21st century, digital transformation has become one
of the most significant forces shaping education worldwide. Universities are no
longer confined to the traditional classroom; instead, they are adopting
technology-driven models that enable flexible, interactive, and personalized
learning experiences. In Vietnam, the digital transformation of higher
education has been strongly encouraged by the government through national
strategies promoting Industry 4.0 and digital society development. Van Hien University,
as one of the leading private institutions in Ho Chi Minh City, has actively
embraced this transformation to improve the quality of teaching, enhance
student engagement, and strengthen its competitiveness in the digital era. The integration of technology into the teaching and learning
process at Van Hien University has changed not only how knowledge is delivered
but also how it is created, assessed, and shared. The university has moved
toward a blended-learning approach, combining face-to-face instruction with
online tools, digital content, and learning management systems. This transition
has brought profound benefits but also challenges that require careful
management, innovation, and long-term vision.
2. Transformation of Teaching Methods
Before the digital era, most teaching activities at Van Hien
University relied on traditional lectures, printed materials, and in-class
discussions. However, since the university adopted digital transformation
initiatives, teaching methods have undergone a radical shift. Lecturers now
make use of digital tools such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), Google
Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom to organize classes,
assign homework, and interact with students. These tools enable blended learning, where physical
and virtual instruction complement each other. Lecturers can upload video
lectures, PowerPoint slides, and interactive exercises, allowing students to
review lessons anytime. Online quizzes and digital assignments have replaced
paper-based tests, enabling faster feedback and data-driven assessment.
Moreover, the use of multimedia—videos, simulations, infographics, and
animations—has made lessons more dynamic and engaging, especially for visual
learners. The university has also encouraged the use of innovative
teaching methods, such as flipped classrooms, where students study
theoretical content online before coming to class to discuss, analyze, and
apply concepts. This approach has fostered greater student participation,
self-learning, and critical thinking—key skills for future professionals.
3. Enhancing Learning Flexibility and Accessibility
Digital transformation has significantly improved
accessibility and flexibility in learning at Van Hien University. Students are
no longer limited by classroom walls or fixed schedules. With online platforms,
they can attend virtual lectures, download study materials, and participate in
online discussions from any location. This flexibility is particularly valuable
for students who work part-time or live far from campus. Furthermore, digital transformation has promoted inclusive
education. Students with disabilities or those unable to attend in-person
classes regularly can now participate equally through virtual classrooms. The
university’s digital library and e-learning resources provide access to
thousands of books, journals, and databases, expanding learning opportunities
far beyond the physical library. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of these
digital tools. When physical classes were suspended, Van Hien University
quickly shifted to online teaching, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
Even after the pandemic, many digital practices remain integrated into the
curriculum because of their convenience and effectiveness.
4. Developing Digital Competence for Lecturers and
Students
A central aspect of Van Hien University’s digital
transformation is the development of digital competence among lecturers and
students. Teachers are no longer only transmitters of knowledge—they have
become facilitators and designers of digital learning environments. The
university has organized training workshops, seminars, and professional
development programs to equip lecturers with essential digital skills.
These include the ability to create e-learning content, use interactive tools,
manage online classrooms, and apply analytics to track student performance. For students, digital transformation has helped develop a
wide range of 21st-century skills, such as digital literacy, online
collaboration, and information management. They learn to use online
communication platforms, conduct virtual group projects, and use data analysis
software. These skills not only enhance academic success but also increase
employability after graduation, as most companies today value candidates who
are comfortable with digital technologies. Moreover, the shift toward digital learning encourages autonomous
learning. Students must take responsibility for managing their study
schedules, accessing materials, and engaging with online content. This autonomy
cultivates discipline, time management, and lifelong learning habits.
5. Institutional Innovations and Infrastructure
Development
To support digital transformation, Van Hien University has
invested heavily in its technological infrastructure. The university has
upgraded its computer systems, Wi-Fi networks, and classroom facilities. Smart
classrooms equipped with projectors, interactive boards, and high-speed
internet have been introduced to create modern learning spaces. Additionally,
the university has developed an internal digital ecosystem, integrating
data management, academic records, and administrative operations into a unified
digital platform. This infrastructure enables more efficient academic
management, reducing paperwork and improving communication between departments,
lecturers, and students. Administrative processes such as course registration,
grade submission, and tuition payment have become faster and more transparent
through online systems.
6. Challenges and Barriers to Digital Transformation
Despite these advancements, the journey toward full digital
transformation is not without difficulties. One major challenge is the unequal
access to digital resources among students. Not all students have reliable
internet connections or personal devices, especially those from rural areas.
This digital divide can limit equal learning opportunities. Another challenge is resistance to change among some
lecturers who are more comfortable with traditional teaching methods. The
transition requires continuous training, motivation, and support. Furthermore,
maintaining cybersecurity and protecting personal data has become increasingly
important as more information is stored and shared online. The quality assurance of online education also
presents a concern. Ensuring that online assessments are fair, that students
actively participate, and that learning outcomes are achieved requires careful
planning and monitoring. Van Hien University has taken several measures to address
these issues, such as offering digital literacy training, providing technical
support, and investing in secure IT systems. However, long-term commitment and
continuous improvement are necessary to sustain these efforts.
7. Impact on Academic Culture and Pedagogy
Digital transformation has also changed the academic culture
at Van Hien University. The traditional one-way teaching approach has evolved
into a collaborative and interactive learning culture. Lecturers now act
as facilitators, guiding students in discovering and applying knowledge rather
than merely delivering information. Students, in turn, become active
participants, contributing ideas and engaging in peer learning. The use of data analytics allows lecturers to track
students’ progress, identify learning difficulties, and personalize
instruction. Online discussion forums and digital platforms have expanded
academic communication beyond class hours, encouraging continuous dialogue
between teachers and students. As a result, the relationship between lecturers
and students has become more open, dynamic, and supportive.
8. Long-Term Vision for Digital Education at Van Hien
University
Looking ahead, Van Hien University aims to build a smart
university model, integrating artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and
cloud computing into education and management. The university’s strategic
vision focuses on three main goals:
- Enhancing Teaching Quality – through the
continuous improvement of e-learning materials and teaching methodologies.
- Strengthening Research and Innovation – by
using digital platforms for data analysis, collaboration, and publication.
- Promoting Lifelong Learning – by offering
online courses, micro-credentials, and digital certificates to reach a
broader community of learners.
By pursuing these goals, Van Hien University contributes to
Vietnam’s national digital transformation strategy and ensures that its
graduates are ready to thrive in the knowledge-based global economy.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, the digital transformation at Van Hien
University has brought about a profound and lasting impact on the teaching and
learning process. It has modernized instructional methods, enhanced access to
knowledge, and strengthened the digital competencies of both lecturers and
students. While challenges remain—such as technological disparities and
adaptation difficulties—the university’s commitment to innovation and
continuous improvement ensures that digital transformation becomes a
sustainable, long-term success. Ultimately, digital transformation is not merely about
technology; it is about transforming the mindset, culture, and pedagogy of
education. Van Hien University’s experience illustrates how higher education
institutions in Vietnam can embrace technology to create a more inclusive,
dynamic, and future-oriented learning environment—one that empowers both
teachers and students to succeed in the digital age.