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Research Engagement Among University EFL Lecturers in Vietnam: A Positioning Theory Perspective

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Most Vietnamese university lecturers, especially those who teach English as a foreign language (EFL), have always considered research practice an unfamiliar area and seem disempowered from conducting research activities. Hence, this qualitative study investigates the research engagement of 21 Vietnamese EFL lecturers from a positioning theory perspective, as evidenced in semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed the participants’ insights into research when they play different roles: (a) lecturer, (b) action researcher, (c) EFL teacher, and (d) impossible-mission accomplisher. Regardless of the participants’ positions, their research engagement was low and depended on their perception of such roles. The study discusses implications for fostering academics’ research in higher education within and beyond Vietnam.

Source: PROFILE Issues in Teachers Professional Development

DOI: 10.15446/profile.v27n2.116028

Authors: Van Son Nguyen, Hong-Anh Thi Nguyen, Huong Thi Lan Lam

Institution: Thuyloi University

Language: English

Topic: Teacher Education and Leadership Studies

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414004481

FWCI: 3.275

Cites: 23

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10