Duc’s Journey in Education and Research

Duc has made significant contributions to academia, having penned six scientific articles, four of which have been featured in well-regarded international journals.

Born in 1992, he is recognized not just for his commitment to teaching, but also for his proactive role in scientific research and mentoring students for academic contests.

From 2020 to 2024, Duc’s research output was impressive, resulting in six publications—two in national journals and four in esteemed international outlets. In the year 2024 alone, he had three articles published in SCIE/Scopus journals.

His main research endeavor is aimed at formulating a drug for diabetes management by working on the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds that inhibit the α-glucosidase enzyme. This enzyme plays a pivotal role in the conversion of starch to glucose, and its excessive activity can lead to diabetes. By effectively inhibiting this enzyme, blood sugar levels can be effectively regulated.

Duc believes that his research endeavors enrich his teaching. He stated, “With more research, I grasp the core of concepts better, which enhances my knowledge and transforms my teaching style.”

He has also excelled in provincial entrepreneurship contests, winning first place for a project that developed eco-friendly hand soap from Phyllanthus acidus. This project received recognition from the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and earned a spot in the Vietnam 2019 Golden Book of Innovations.

Additionally, he supervised students in a project that created antibacterial hand sanitizers from Caryota mitis leaves and fruits, producing over 2,000 liters during the Covid-19 pandemic for use in schools, local agencies, and field hospitals.

Under Duc’s guidance, students achieved commendable results in scientific research, securing second prizes both at the provincial and national levels during annual science and technology competitions for high school students.

Duc observes that engaging in scientific research fosters students’ potential and maturity, stating, “As they engage in research, my students not only gain knowledge but also hone their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.” This motivates his continued passion for education.

Duc has introduced various innovative teaching methods in his classrooms. One such method is the “flipped classroom” model which encourages students to take charge of their learning process. Rather than traditional lectures, students review materials through documents and videos before class.

In the classroom, time is allocated for student presentations, discussions, and practical guidance rather than theory alone. This strategy promotes an interactive learning environment where students can engage actively, leading to better retention of information compared to passive learning.

He often assigns hands-on projects that relate to real-life applications. For instance, while teaching combustion reactions, he challenges students to build mini fire extinguishers using everyday materials. Students learn to mix chemicals like baking soda and vinegar to generate CO2, demonstrating the scientific principles in practice.

Students are encouraged to explain the workings of their extinguisher designs, which fosters a deeper understanding of gas behavior during reactions.

Duc champions this practical approach in teaching, believing it cultivates critical thinking. He values the independence of his students, as they often devise unique solutions rather than strictly adhering to guidelines. “It’s rewarding to see students develop their own methods and still achieve success,” Duc remarked.

Due to his expertise and respect in the field, Duc serves on the council responsible for crafting exam questions and evaluating student work during the province’s student competitions. Since 2020, he, along with his colleagues, has trained 21 students for these competitions.

His unwavering dedication has rightfully earned him recognition as an outstanding teacher in 2024.