Gen 10 Political Education Orientation Program: Guidance on Scientific Research Methods for Students – An Informative Workshop
As part of the political education orientation week, the session on “Scientific Research Methods” was held to help first-year Gen 10 students gain an overview of the research pathway at university—why research matters, where to start, and which core skills are needed to pursue a well-structured project. The approach is general and easy to apply across disciplines, emphasizing sound academic habits from the very first year.
Panoramic view of the session “Scientific Research Methods” during the Gen 10 political-orientation week
Why students should engage in scientific research: from theory to practice
At the opening of the workshop, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Tien Manh-a lecturer in the DDP Program-emphasized that scientific research is not only part of the curriculum but also a key to unlocking many opportunities for personal development. According to him, doing research helps students meet program learning outcomes, consolidate theoretical knowledge, and cultivate research skills and creative thinking. It also builds a foundation for teamwork—an essential requirement in today’s workplace.
Duong Thi Mai Dung, a standout DDP Gen 6 student with a stellar profile—valedictorian of the cohort for two consecutive years, winner of Best Paper at the 2024 Student Research Conference, and president of the Accounting–Auditing Club—added a youth perspective: research hones critical and analytical thinking, turns theory into practice, and opens doors to jobs, study abroad, and broader networks. “Research is not a burden; it is how we assert ourselves in a fiercely competitive world.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Tien Manh shares research experience with Gen 10 students
These benefits were illustrated through clear, visually engaging slides, helping participants easily grasp the practical value of scientific research.
Scientific Research Process: From Idea to Completed Report
The core of the workshop focused on the research process, presented by both speakers in a logical, easy-to-follow manner. Dr. Mạnh introduced a basic research model aligned with international standards, including:
Developing the research topic: Start by using search tools with relevant keywords, consult lists of published topics, or seek support from faculty advisors.
Reviewing the literature: Search on Google Scholar and Sci-Hub; read abstracts, summaries, and the reference sections of papers.
Selecting a strategy: Define the methodology, hypotheses, resource plan, and build a detailed outline.
Access and ethics: Ensure representativeness and avoid bias when collecting primary data (through concise questionnaires) or secondary data (from reliable sources).
Sampling, data collection, and analysis: Use interviews and questionnaires; process data consistently.
Writing the report: A standard research article includes Introduction, Theoretical Background, Methodology, Results & Discussion, Conclusion, and References.
Sharing from Ms. Duong Thi Mai Dung, with a stellar profile: valedictorian of the cohort for two consecutive years, Best Paper winner at the 2024 Student Research Conference, and president of the Accounting-Auditing Club.
Ms. Duong Thi Mai Dung added a practical, experience-based workflow: from choosing a topic, finding teammates and registering, to naming the topic, planning, sourcing literature, processing data, and writing the report. She emphasized effective planning tips such as breaking tasks into smaller pieces, assigning responsibilities clearly, tackling weaknesses first, and updating progress regularly. On data collection, she advised Gen 10 students: “For primary data, keep questions concise to avoid misunderstandings; for secondary data, prioritize reliable sources and ensure they are up to date.”
Overcoming challenges and obstacles: real-world insights from the speakers
One of the most engaging parts was the discussion of the “biggest hurdles” in student research. Dr. Mạnh listed common barriers: not knowing where to start, difficulty finding a suitable topic or research gap, limited understanding of methods, challenges in obtaining data, and report presentation issues. He suggested remedies such as adhering to a standard paper structure and carefully checking for typos.
Ms. Dung highlighted four frequent obstacles: “I’m too busy,” “I’ll write right after…,” “Let me finish the last book,” and “I’m not in the right mood.” Her advice: start from a small, manageable problem, learn to use supporting software, break down group work clearly, and find a mentor (a supervising lecturer or senior student).
The workshop concluded with a lively Q&A, where Gen 10 students asked about selecting practical topics and useful tools.
Gen 10 students pose questions to the speakers
The first step on the research journey
The “Scientific Research Methods for Students” workshop not only provided knowledge but also inspired the Gen 10 cohort. Combining in-depth theory from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Tien Manh with hands-on experience from Ms. Duong Thi Mai Dung, the program turned an abstract topic into a feasible path. Participants left with a ready-to-use toolkit—from literature-search tips to ways of dealing with “free riders.” This stands as evidence of the university’s commitment to building research skills and helping Vietnamese students integrate into a global environment.
The event promises to serve as a foundation for many outstanding student research projects in the new academic year.
Selected photos from the workshop:
Institute of International Finance Education
