On 6th September 2016 in Ho Chi Minh city, Samsung Electronics Company and HAIVN launched a smart classroom at Ho Chi Minh University of Medicine and Pharmacy (HCM UMP). This classroom renovation is one component of the project’s efforts to improve and innovate medical education at universities in Vietnam.
The Smart Classroom features modern equipment including an Interactive White Board (IWB) with classroom management software, Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7 tablets, which are connected to both the University servers and the internet to enhance faculty-student interaction. Wall screens throughout the classroom are arranged to be easily seen by students at any position in the room. This interactive classroom will facilitate high-engagement student learning, overcoming the challenge of large class size to provide students the opportunity for interaction with their faculty and peers.
In attendance to launch the new classroom were Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang, Deputy Director of the Administration of Science, Technology and Training (ASTT), MoH, Mr. Kim Cheol Gi – Samsung Vina President, Mr. Craig Hart - USAID Deputy Mission Director,Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Tuan Diep – HCM UMP President, faculty and students.
In addition to the launching ceremony, a tour around the HCM UMP campus provided the opportunity to share and discuss with faculty and students about medical education at the university, including the expectations and plans for future improvement of teaching and learning within the university, and expectations for further study after graduation. To maximize use of the smart classroom, HAIVN and the IMPACT MED Alliance are providing technical assistance to HCM UMP faculty in curriculum reform, course design and student-centered pedagogy with a goal of transforming and modernizing medical education in Vietnam.
