Respect and Discipline in Vietnamese Schools: A Guide for Foreign Teachers

Teaching in Vietnam can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with unique cultural norms that foreign teachers need to understand. Among the most important aspects of Vietnamese classroom culture are respect and discipline. These values shape student behavior, teacher–student relationships, and the overall learning environment.

In this guide, we’ll explore how respect and discipline function in Vietnamese schools, what foreign teachers should expect, and practical strategies to manage classrooms effectively while adapting to the local culture.

1. The Role of Respect in Vietnamese Education

• Teachers as authority figures: In Vietnam, teachers are highly respected, often seen as role models and moral guides. Students usually address teachers formally and follow instructions carefully.
• Cultural traditions: Respect for teachers is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, even celebrated on Vietnamese Teachers’ Day (November 20th), when students honor their teachers with gifts and gratitude.
• Implication for foreign teachers: Your role will carry more authority than in many Western classrooms. Students may be more reserved at first, but they genuinely value teachers who show fairness and professionalism.

Tip: Show mutual respect by learning students’ names, acknowledging their efforts, and maintaining a professional yet approachable demeanor.

2. Discipline in Vietnamese Classrooms

• Generally well-behaved students: Most students are polite and cooperative, but large class sizes (30–50 students in public schools) can lead to noise and distraction.
• Exam-driven mindset: Because of the strong emphasis on grades and tests, students often focus heavily on academic results.
• Peer influence: Students may avoid speaking up due to cultural values of harmony and not wanting to stand out.

Tip: Focus on positive reinforcement rather than strict punishment. Praising effort and teamwork helps motivate students without creating fear.

3. Common Discipline Challenges for Foreign Teachers

• Large class sizes: Harder to control, especially in public schools.
• Passive participation: Students may hesitate to answer questions or volunteer ideas.
• Over-reliance on translation: Some students may default to Vietnamese when unsure.

Tip: Use classroom signals (clapping, countdowns), group leaders, and interactive activities to manage large groups and encourage participation.

4. How to Build Respect and Maintain Discipline

• Set clear expectations from the beginning

                + Create 3–5 simple rules (e.g., “Raise your hand to speak,” “English only in class”).

                + Post them visibly in the classroom and review them regularly.

• Be consistent and fair

                + Students respect teachers who apply rules equally. Avoid favoritism.

                + Stick to classroom routines for structure.

• Use positive reinforcement

                + Reward participation with praise, points, or small group competitions.

                + Recognize both effort and achievement.

• Adapt to cultural norms

                + Understand that silence doesn’t always mean lack of interest.

                + Encourage students gradually with pair or group work before moving to whole-class discussions.

5. Collaborating with Vietnamese Colleagues and Parents

• Local teachers & TAs: They can assist with translation, discipline, and cultural insights.
• Parent expectations: Parents in Vietnam value English education highly. Keeping communication professional and respectful helps strengthen trust.

Tip: Work closely with Vietnamese colleagues to align expectations and strategies for maintaining classroom discipline.

Respect and discipline are cornerstones of Vietnamese education. For foreign teachers, understanding these cultural values is essential to building positive relationships and creating effective learning environments. By setting clear expectations, using positive reinforcement, and showing mutual respect, you can manage classrooms smoothly while connecting meaningfully with students.