Self-learning to achieve breakthroughs.

Learning today is no longer confined to classroom hours or textbooks. The process of self-discovery, proactively seeking knowledge, and continuously improving oneself is the solid foundation for each individual to confidently step into a future full of challenges and opportunities.

A lesson between a teacher and students at Cau Giay Secondary School ( Hanoi ). Photo: NTCC.

Ms. Nguyen Minh Hang, a teacher at Kim Dong Secondary School (Hong Gai Ward, Quang Ninh Province), shared that in the current context, children not only need knowledge but also need to be empowered to take ownership of their own learning. Decree 282/2025/ND-CP, which clearly prohibits parents from forcing their children to study, is an important step in protecting children's rights, especially the right to education and development in accordance with each child's abilities and needs. However, to prevent learning from becoming a source of fear, it is necessary to nurture a spirit of self-directed and creative learning in children, instead of using pressure or commands.

Based on her own experience, Ms. Hang shared that parents should start by befriending their children, learning and exploring together, instead of controlling them. In addition, she emphasized encouragement over judgment. A well-timed compliment can be more powerful than dozens of reminders.

"Let your children try, make mistakes, and choose. Freedom of choice helps children grow and be more creative than any rigid framework. When parents know when to 'let go,' their children will know how to 'fly' in the right direction," Ms. Hang stated.

Dr. Pham Manh Hung from the University of Economics (Vietnam National University, Hanoi) argues that no two children are alike: some are quick learners, others are persistent; some are active, others are quiet. Some learn as if etched in sand – absorbing quickly but easily forgetting, while others learn as if etched in steel – slower but retaining information deeply and firmly. Therefore, it is impossible to apply someone else's "formula for success" to one's own child. Instead, it is necessary to understand the child's unique nature, abilities, and developmental pace to choose the most suitable approach.

For children who lack a strong sense of self-discipline, parents can create external discipline – a military-like environment where tasks must be completed, whether they want to or not. This process gradually helps children develop proactive habits, a sense of responsibility, and self-control. Children may sometimes want to "give up," but parents must not "let them go" – because "letting them go" means missing a crucial stage in forming their willpower and foundation.

Regarding supplementary tutoring, Dr. Hung believes there's nothing wrong with it if the goals are clear and the learning method is correct. When knowledge is lacking, supplementary tutoring helps fill the gaps; when a foundation is established, supplementary tutoring strengthens it; and when it's solid, supplementary tutoring leads to excellence. A good teacher acts as a catalyst, helping students shorten learning time, avoid mistakes, and stay on the right track – something that is difficult to achieve through self-study, especially for children who lack the ability to orient themselves.

This is also the view of the education sector when issuing Circular 29 on tutoring to limit the widespread practice of tutoring, with the concern that it would stifle students' self-learning spirit. Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Kim Son affirmed that self-learning is the root of all abilities and skills and a vital factor in the knowledge age. He encouraged teachers and students to be proactive, overcome their limitations, consider textbooks as reference materials, and develop their own thinking to expand their knowledge instead of over-relying on tutoring.

In this context, the role of schools in cultivating self-learning abilities in students is extremely important. Schools should not only impart knowledge but also guide learning methods, helping students learn how to set goals, plan, and self-assess their learning outcomes. Instead of focusing too much on extracurricular tutoring, schools should organize proactive learning activities such as group discussions, small research projects, or practical application exercises to stimulate interest and a spirit of exploration.

Furthermore, teachers need to act as guides, providing support when necessary, and creating an open learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their opinions. When equipped with appropriate methods and motivation, students will gradually develop sustainable self-learning habits, thereby enhancing their personal abilities and better adapting to the demands of modern society.

Thu Huong

Source: https://daidoanket.vn/tu-hoc-de-but-pha.html