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Vietnamese international student engagement with blended learning in Australia
Thịnh Huỳnh’s research project ‘Vietnamese international student engagement in blended learning in the Australian higher education context’ explores how Vietnamese international students perceive blended learning as well as how this international student cohort enact their agency and navigate the learning environment in Australia. The study has generated a series of recommendations for universities and government bodies, grounded in the perspectives of Vietnamese international students, teaching staff, and university leaders.
Rooted in Thịnh Huỳnh’s own journey as an international student during the COVID-19 pandemic, the project reflects firsthand challenges such as digital unfamiliarity, isolation, and maintaining motivation and academic performance. These personal insights, combined with a deep understanding of Vietnamese cultural contexts, shape a nuanced investigation into the ongoing relevance of blended learning in the post-pandemic era.
Here Thịnh Huỳnh talks about his project and his aim to contribute both academically and practically to enhancing the learning experiences of Vietnamese international students—and potentially other student groups—across Australian universities.
Thinh Huynh
Describe your project and what you are hoping to achieve
My project investigates how Vietnamese international students engage in blended learning within the Australian higher education context. It focuses particularly on the patterns in which this group of Vietnamese international students perceive blended learning, exercise their agency, and navigate structural influences in this learning environment. The research also aims to identify policy-making strategies that can better support this student cohort in achieving meaningful academic and social accomplishments, as the outcomes of their blended learning.
This topic stems from my personal experience as a Vietnamese international student during the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, I, along with many others, encountered considerable challenges in adapting to blended learning. These challenges included navigating the unfamiliarity of the digital world, staying motivated and maintaining learning outcomes while isolated.
As blended learning continues to be a mainstream approach in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era, I believe it is still crucial to explore how Vietnamese international students are experiencing and responding to this mode of learning and teaching. Based on both my personal experience and Vietnamese cultural background, I aim to offer insights that are not only academically relevant but also practically meaningful. This research, I trust, can contribute to improving the learning experiences of Vietnamese international students, and potentially those of other cohorts, across the Australian higher education system.
Why did you decide to do your PhD at Deakin?
Having lived in Melbourne for an extended period, I developed a deep appreciation for the city and its vibrant community, natural beauty, and inclusive culture. It felt only natural to pursue further study in a place where I feel a strong sense of belonging. Among the many distinguished institutions in Melbourne, Deakin University stood out to me for its commitment to impactful research, reputation for excellence, and supportive scholarly environment.
Deakin also offered the chance to work with world-class researchers who are leaders in their fields and incredibly supportive supervisors. Receiving the Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarship was another source of great encouragement. It enabled me to fully immerse myself in academic life and provided the necessary support to explore my research with curiosity and confidence. I am grateful for the opportunity to undertake my journey at Deakin, and I feel humbled to be part of our research community.
How has your experience with your supervisors been so far?
I consider myself fortunate to be supervised by Professor Ly Tran, a leading scholar in the field of international education, whose research has long inspired me. I have also had the privilege of working with two other incredible supervisors, Dr Mark Rahimi from Deakin University and Professor Chie Adachi from Queen Mary University of London.
Their expertise, guidance and feedback has been invaluable, not only in my academic journey, but also in shaping my personal and professional growth. Each of them brings distinct expertise in their fields that has shaped my project in meaningful ways, from knowledge on international education to expertise on digital/online learning and insights on student engagement. Their encouragement, generosity, and trust in my work have created a supportive environment where I continue to grow as a person.
How are you managing juggling study, work and life?
Undertaking a PhD has, in some ways, reshaped my personal view on time and strengthened my ability to manage it effectively. I have learned to balance academic responsibilities with part-time work, while also making room for health, wellbeing, and a social life. It has not always been easy, but this process has helped me cultivate greater self-discipline and a better approach to work-life balance.
What has been a highlight of your PhD so far?
One of the most memorable experiences of my PhD journey was the opportunity to present my research at an international conference in the United Kingdom in March 2025. Presenting at the University of London, alongside Professor Chie Adachi, allowed me to share my Australia-focused work with the international research community, engage in academic conversations, and connect with scholars in the field. The experience not only helped me refine my presentation skills and gain valuable feedback but also deepened my confidence as an emerging researcher. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity and the support from my supervisors that made it possible.
When you complete your PhD what are your next steps and challenges?
As an early-career researcher, I see the period after the completion of my PhD as a time to consolidate my research interests, strengthen my academic profile, and embark on translating my doctoral work into publications. While the future holds uncertainties, I trust that the skills I have cultivated throughout my PhD journey, together with the ongoing support from my supervisors and the valuable networks I have built within and beyond Deakin, will serve as a strong foundation for navigating the next chapter of my life.
Back row L-R: Thinh Huynh, Thao Nguyen, Professor Ly Tran, Huong Nguyen
Front row L-R: Dr Trang Le, Dr Alam Ikhlas.
