VNU Journal of Foreign Studies

VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs <div class="description-journal"> <div class="description-journal"> The Journal of Science was established in 1985 for the publication of national and international research papers in all fields of natural sciences and technology, social sciences and humanities. Since then, the journal has grown in quality, size and scope and now comprises a dozen of serials spanning academic research. With the rapid expansion of the field of Economics, the VNU Journal of Science is delighted to announce the launch of the VNU Journal of Science: Foreign Studies (JS: FS) since 2002. This serial publication provides researchers with the opportunity to publish research covering aspects in these areas in the popular VNU Journal of Science series. As a fully open access publication, the journal will provide maximum exposure for published articles, making the research available to all to read and share. The journal will be published bimonthly in February, April, June, August, October and December. Scope JS: FS is an open access journal publishing double-blinded peer-reviewed research papers, discussions and reviews dealing with Linguistics, Foreign language education, International studies, Related social sciences and humanities. Peer Review Process Any manuscript followed the journal’s scope and author guideline will be assigned to the managing editors. All manuscripts have undergone editorial screening and anonymous double-blind peer-review by the at least one independent expert in the field. The managing editor makes an editorial decision, which is subject to endorsement by the Editor – in Chief. Abstracting and Indexing </div> </div> en-US tapchincnn@vnu.edu.vn (Tạp chí Nghiên cứu nước ngoài) tapchincnn@vnu.edu.vn (VNU Journal of Foreign Studies) Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:09:33 +0000 OJS 3.2.1.1 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 AN ANALYSIS OF INTERPRETING MISTAKES AMONG CHINESE LANGUAGE MAJORS AT VNU UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5572 Interpreting is a pivotal skill in the undergraduate training program for Chinese Language majors, particularly within the current context of increasingly profound China-Vietnam economic and cultural exchange. However, students often encounter numerous difficulties in the interpreting process, stemming from disparities in encyclopedic knowledge, linguistic skills, and the ability to apply interpreting techniques in practical work situations. To obtain objective data for assessing students’ interpreting competence, this study collected and surveyed audio recordings of mid-term exams taken by Chinese Language majors at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Based on an analysis of common mistakes in both Chinese -Vietnamese and Vietnamese - Chinese interpreting, we identified significant students’ limitations in conveying information accurately, fluently, and promptly. The prevalent mistakes are categorized into linguistic mistakes and interpreting skill deficiencies. Consequently, the paper proposes several recommendations for learning and teaching methodologies aimed at enhancing instructional effectiveness and improving the quality of interpreter training. Minh Tien Pham Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5572 THE ROLE OF CONTEXT IN TRANSLATION: THE CASE OF THE CHINESE WORD 主任 (ZHǓRÈN) TRANSLATED INTO VIETNAMESE https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5539 Understanding the meaning of a word requires specific context. The context of a word refers to the surrounding words that clarify its meaning and ensure coherent comprehension. Therefore, the role of context in understanding word meaning is crucial, particularly in translation activities. This is especially significant when translating a phenomenon from language A to language B, particularly when a phenomenon in one language is expressed through various forms in another. Through the case of the Chinese word 主任 (zhǔrèn) and its equivalent translation into Vietnamese, this article clarifies the equivalent terms translated into Vietnamese for 主任 (zhǔrèn), comparing the correlations between human translation and machine translation. Then, the important role of context in translation activities is recognized, aiming to utilize context for accurate translation. Thi Minh Nguyen, Phong Lan Chu, Thi Huong Tra Do Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5539 CHARACTERISTICS OF FOOD INGREDIENT TERMINOLOGY IN CHINESE AND VIETNAMESE https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5552 In both Chinese and Vietnamese, there exist a large number of lexical items referring to food ingredients, among which the terms for spices reflect the linguistic and cultural characteristics of the Vietnamese and Chinese peoples. The study, through descriptive and comparative analysis of these lexemes, points out that in these two languages, spice names are primarily formed through three methods: directly naming the plant species; combining the plant name with references to plant parts or shapes; and forming compound names that include a processed spice type along with distinguishing descriptors. These naming conventions vividly reflect the natural and social characteristics of both countries. In particular, the similarities and differences in culinary preferences between Vietnamese and Chinese people are evident through the frequency of elements such as color, shape, origin of the spices, and plant parts used. The nomenclature of spices also illustrates the close integration of culinary standards - deliciousness, nutrition, safety - and philosophical concepts such as yin-yang and the five elements in Vietnamese and Chinese food cultures. The findings offer more insights of the culinary culture of both countries as reflected in their respective languages. Minh Nguyet Ngo Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5552 仁 (HUMANITY), 義 (RIGHTEOUSNESS), 禮 (PROPRIETY), 智 (WISDOM), 信 (TRUSTWORTHINESS) FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF TRADITIONAL MORALITY https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5540 With over 2300 years of feudal rule in China, a series of behavioral standards for each member of the family and society were established in this country. Five traditional moral standards, generally called the Five Constants, include humanity, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness. These qualities have been the educational goals from family to school and serve as measures of a person’s value. Five traditional moral standards are also found in Vietnam and other countries like Japan and Korea, which are deeply influenced by Confucian thought. To this day, humanity, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness remain core values. In this article, based on a semiotic perspective combined with cultural studies, an attempt is made to discuss the concepts of humanity, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness embedded in Chinese characters 仁 (humanity), 義 (righteousness), 禮 (propriety), 智 (wisdom), 信 (trustworthiness) to offer a deep understanding of their semantic meanings and cultural implications. This will contribute to the education of traditional morality for the young generation. Ngoc Ham Pham Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5540 USING MIND MAPS IN CHINESE FOR ECONOMICS COURSES: EXPERIMENT, RESULTS AND DISCUSSION https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5425 In the process of studying Chinese for economics courses, students often face difficulties in memorizing and organizing knowledge, as well as in understanding specialized content and terminology. These difficulties create psychological barriers that adversely affect their motivation to learn. To address this issue, the author conducted an action research that applied mind maps to design, teaching and learning activities in Chinese for economics. The study was carried out over 15 weeks with 86 students majoring in Chinese Language across four classes from the same cohort at a university specializing in foreign language education. To evaluate the effectiveness of this approach, the author compared the results of pre- and post-tests conducted at the beginning and end of the semester, respectively. Additionally, a survey was administered to investigate students’ perceptions of the teaching and learning activities based on this approach. The results indicated that the challenges students faced were significantly mitigated. Most students expressed a preference for this approach and highlighted several advantages. However, some students also encountered difficulties in completing mind maps and made suggestions to overcome the disadvantages of this approach. Thi Hao Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5425 EXPLORING THE APPLICATION OF PROJECT-BASED LEARNING IN CHINESE FOR ECONOMICS COURSES https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5538 Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centered instructional model that fosters self-directed learning and practical skills through task-based activities. In teaching Chinese for economics, PBL is applied to enhance students' language proficiency and economic knowledge by engaging them in real-world or simulated economic projects, enabling them to use Chinese to solve practical problems. This paper develops a PBL implementation framework for Chinese for economics courses, details its operational steps, and evaluates its effectiveness through empirical surveys. Based on survey findings, the study proposes improvement strategies to optimize PBL implementation and teaching quality. Thi Ngoc Hien Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5538 A STUDY OF “INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION” SYLLABI AT SOME UNIVERSITIES IN VIETNAM https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5553 This article surveys the practical implementation of the course “Intercultural Communication” at four representative universities offering Chinese language programs in Vietnam: University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Hanoi Pedagogical University 2, Hanoi Open University, and Thai Nguyen University. The study focuses on comparing and evaluating various aspects including: learning objectives, teaching materials, implementation methods, assessment and evaluation forms, teaching approaches, available resources, and feedback from instructors and students. The results reveal significant differences in how the course is implemented across universities, along with some common limitations. Based on these findings, the article proposes building a rich and diverse repository of learning resources, innovating teaching methods, and enhancing practical experiences to improve the quality of education and better meet the integration and development needs of students majoring in Chinese language studies. Thu Hoai Dinh Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5553 THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) APPLICATIONS ON STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION, LEARNING METHODS, AND OUTCOMES IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE ACQUISITION https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5547 The explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the digital transformation era has brought about profound changes in education, especially in foreign language learning. This study aims to assess the actual impact of AI applications on the learning process of students at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. The findings indicate that, alongside the positive aspects brought by AI tools - such as increasing learning motivation, improving self-study efficiency, diversifying approaches, and personalizing learning pathways - the use of AI also carries risks, including mechanical copying, plagiarism, reduction of independent thinking, and memory loss. Based on these insights, the article proposes solutions to raise awareness and develop proactive, creative, and well-controlled AI usage skills; at the same time, it recommends that universities establish guidelines for AI use and strengthen AI integration in curricula to maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts on students’ foreign language learning capacity. Quang Hung Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5547 CHINESE HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL PLACES IN NGUYEN DU'S POETRY COLLECTION TRAVELS TO THE NORTH https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5544 Travels to the North 《北行雜錄》 is a masterpiece of Chinese poetry by the great poet Nguyen Du, composed between 1813 and 1814 when he was an envoy to China. Many of Chinese places in this poetry collection were not simply geographical markers, but also markers of cultural space, historical space and the poet's mental space. The article focuses on deeply analyzing the role and multidimensional significance of Chinese historical and cultural sites in Travels to the North, explaining that this is not only a narrative context but also a space for Nguyen Du to express his deep thoughts and contemplation about history, culture, and human fate in the fluctuating period of time. Besides, decoding Chinese place names that were not included in Nguyen Du's itinerary on his trip to China but appeared frequently in the poetry collection will contribute to shaping a new concept of geographical space in literature. Decoding these “codes” helps to clarify his views on history, on the rise and fall of scholars, on the fate of scholars and the tragedy of talent in the literary career. The article aims to affirm that the study of place names is an important and effective approach to more comprehensively understand the value of Travels to the North as well as the cultural exchange between Vietnam and China in the medieval period. Furthermore, it highlights his uniqueness and contributions to the genre of Chinese poetry in Vietnamese literature. Xuan Khai Le Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5544 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 CHINA’S EFFORTS IN ENHANCING ITS ROLE IN GLOBAL SECURITY https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5447 In the face of growing global challenges, the current global governance system is revealing limitations in meeting the needs of the international community. The voices of countries around the world advocating for the reform and construction of the global governance system have grown louder, and the idea of building a global governance system through joint consultation, joint construction, and shared benefits has become a consensus among nations. China has evolved from being on the sidelines of rule-making in international security to gradually participating. Now, it has become one of the key initiators of international security rules. China's role in global security governance is reflected in various aspects, such as being an enforcer, a diplomat, and a creator. This article analyzes China's role in global security through its support for and participation in peacekeeping activities worldwide and regionally; its cooperation in military diplomacy and security to effectively manage transnational security issues; and the development of new perspectives and initiatives on security, such as innovating international security concepts and building the idea of a Community With a Shared Future for Mankind. Thanh Van Chu, Thu Minh Tran Tran Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5447 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 THE APPLICATION OF FABLE-BASED IDIOMS IN TEACHING CHINESE AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5550 In the context of the growing global influence of the Chinese language, the teaching of fable-based idioms has become more essential than ever. As an important component of Chinese vocabulary, these idioms are not only culturally rich but also convey profound philosophical meanings. However, due to historical backgrounds, narrative complexity, and cultural differences, learners - especially Vietnamese students - often face challenges in comprehending and applying such idioms. Based on a practical survey of second-year Chinese majors and relevant literature analysis, this paper explores the pedagogical value of fable-based idioms in Chinese language instruction, identifies existing challenges in teaching practices, and proposes effective strategies such as storytelling, contextual simulations, classroom games, and the use of translation as a bridge. These methods aim to enhance learners’ acquisition of both language and cultural understanding. Thi Bao Ngan Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5550 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 THE NEEDS AND LEARNING SITUATION OF CHINESE FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES OF CHINESE LANGUAGE STUDENTS AT HANOI UNIVERSITY OF INDUSTRY https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5573 This paper discusses the issues related to the needs and learning situation of Chinese for Specific Purposes (CSP) among Vietnamese students, based on the practical teaching experience at the Faculty of Chinese Language, Hanoi University of Industry. The discussion focuses on constructing a standardized curriculum founded on strong theoretical bases, ensuring an appropriate study load and duration. Key recommendations include developing concise and updated materials and content based on progressive principles, prioritizing the resolution of specialized vocabulary comprehension challenges (reading and listening) in learning. Furthermore, it emphasizes developing a faculty with dual competency include proficient in both Chinese language and the specialized field, enhancing interdisciplinary training, and promoting collaboration with industry experts to ensure systematic organization and practical relevance of the curriculum. It is hoped that these discussions can contribute insights and references for the research, program development, and enhancement of overall Chinese language teaching effectiveness, particularly CSP, for language major students in Vietnam. Tu Tai Cam, Phuong Thao Vu Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5573 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 EVALUATION OF LEGAL CHINESE: COMMERCIAL LAW TEXTBOOK AND SUGGESTIONS FOR ADJUSTMENT IN TEACHING LEGAL CHINESE https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5546 This study focuses on analyzing and evaluating the textbook Legal Chinese: Commercial Law, which is currently used for teaching the subject of Legal Chinese at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Based on a survey of its structure, lesson content, vocabulary system, grammar, and exercises, the study identifies the textbook’s main features in terms of structure, content, vocabulary, grammar, and relevance to the specialized field. In addition, the research points out the limitations of the textbook for Vietnamese students and proposes solutions to adjust teaching content and improve the quality of teaching and learning Legal Chinese. Thi Bang Tam Hoang Copyright (c) 2025 VNU Journal of Foreign Studies https://jfs.ulis.vnu.edu.vn/index.php/fs/article/view/5546 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000