English learning challenges persist as Vietnamese educators promote thinking-based method
Finding an effective way to learn English remains a major concern for many learners, prompting growing interest in approaches such as the Linearthinking method, which educators say emphasizes logical thinking to help learners improve reading, writing, and communication skills.
Despite investing significant time, money, and effort in their studies, many people continue to struggle with English and, in some cases, lose confidence in their language abilities.
Chi Hieu, an information technology specialist who has been working for five years, said he is often disappointed when promotion lists for management positions rarely include his name.
“I perform well academically and professionally, but my soft skills and English proficiency are still weak,” Hieu said.
“Seeing younger colleagues sent on overseas business trips and promoted to management positions because of their strong English skills makes me feel regretful.”
Hieu attributed his difficulties with English grammar and vocabulary to studying without a clear system or method.
Ho Anh Kiet, a final-year marketing student in Ho Chi Minh City, said he has also faced numerous challenges while learning English.
“Looking back, I think what I really need is to find a suitable method,” Kiet said.
For many students taking Vietnam’s national high school graduation examinations in 2025 and 2026, the English test has been described as lengthy and difficult, requiring logical thinking skills rather than relying solely on memorized grammar rules or test-focused preparation.
Educators say mastering English is important not only for students but also for teachers and working professionals.
According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training, the country will need approximately 22,000 additional English teachers for preschool and primary education by 2030.
By 2035, at least 200,000 teachers are expected to receive training to teach subjects in English as part of a strategy to make English a second language in schools.
At the same time, the rapid development of artificial intelligence has increased the importance of both emotional intelligence and English proficiency for workers seeking to improve their competitiveness and reduce the risk of job displacement.
DOL English’s 9.0 IELTS achievers discuss the Linearthinking method during an online consultation program on June 16, 2026.
“The method aims to help learners shorten their study time and more quickly reach a stage where they can read, write, and speak effectively through different ways of thinking.”
For reading skills, Khoa said some learners believe they must acquire a large vocabulary before understanding the main idea of a text.
However, the Simplify approach within Linearthinking encourages learners to reduce long and complex sentences into simpler forms, identify essential information, and skim less important details.
As a result, learners may still be able to understand the main ideas of an English text even when their vocabulary is not sufficient to understand every word.
Another component of the method, known as Read Connections, helps learners analyze links between nearby pieces of information, connect smaller ideas into broader themes, and better understand relationships between different parts of a text.
TESOL master Tran Anh Khoa, who achieved an IELTS score of 9.0 and graduated as the valedictorian runner-up in English language studies from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities under Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City
“Adults who have lost their foundation in English still possess advantages when learning again, including life experience, clear goals, and mature thinking,” Minh said.
“In addition, the strong development of AI is providing personalized support, making learning more convenient and effective.”
Minh said DOL English combines experienced teachers with technology and AI systems that support instruction, monitoring, and assessment.
“Over the past six years, DOL has had more than 1,000 students achieve IELTS scores ranging from 7.0 to 8.5, and more than 1,500 on the SAT test,” Minh said.
Yen Viet / Tuoi Tre News