Introducing the process of developing open education program for universities of information technology in Vietnam

Abstract

The great achievements made in every field so far have given educators many challenges. In Vietnam, following the guidelines of fundamental and comprehensive education reform, the development of “open education” program is an urgent requirement contributing to the successful implementation of the education reform. The program will provide access to education for all people in need, regardless of age, education level, occupation, social status, gender, and can be implemented at all times and places. In the 4.0 era, the role of IT universities has been well defined. In order to maximize their role, they need to develop an open program. To establish and develop an open education program for Universities of Information Technology, the article proposes a process of eight steps. Step 1: analyzing context and assessing education needs (international context, national, and university context). Step 2: identifying six criteria and four objectives (knowledge, skills, ethics, capability) when developing open programs. Targets must be specific, detailed, easy to review and evaluate. Step 3: reviewing the current program, and designing new program contents. Step 4: selecting the form of training organization. Step 5: organizing examinations and accreditation of education quality, ensuring accuracy, objectivity, seriousness and flexibility in accordance with the training methods, subjects and contents. Step 6: verifying the training programs. Step 7: implementing the program (including two steps: Pilot implementation, evaluation and adjustment; mass implementation applied throughout the university). Step 8: evaluating the program (after implementation, the university collects, analyzes, and processes data to determine the value of the program). With the above process, the open education program will enhance the quality of education, in line with the trend of higher education in the world today. By attaching training goals to real life, to the development of learners’ capacity, IT universities will affirm their “brand”, their advanced and active role in the digital era, and the globalization of education today.