IMPROVING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING GROUP DISCUSSION METHOD IN TEACHING AND LEARNING OF THE HISTORY OF THE COMMUNIST PARTY OF VIETNAM CURRICULUM

Abstract

Using appropriate teaching methods to improve students’ learning results is important in universities. This study points out measures to improve the effectiveness of group discussion methods in teaching and learning the History of the Communist Party of Vietnam curriculum at Hanoi National University of Education. The quantitative paradigm was used, through which an experimental design was applied to the experimental group. Convenience sampling was used to collect 383 students in the experimental group and 187 students in the control group. The data was collected by using pre- and post-test examinations, and a validated questionnaire. The results showed that the group discussion method improved students' interests and learning outcomes. The lecturer had the main role in controlling the group discussion while the students were still the center of the group discussion. The students were encouraged and properly directed to participate in group discussions by dividing the class into small groups (8-10 students/group) discussing the same topic; informing students in advance about the discussion topic; correcting the students’ presentation of their opinions in class; helping the students form ideas during the discussion; and bringing out discussion topics close to the students' preferred choices.