Our Unit 871 Instructor, Dung, discusses best practices in education programs when working in a international, cross-cultural setting.
In today’s world, education and training rarely stay within national borders. Programs like those at Lana Learn bring people from many cultures together. This creates rich opportunities, but also unique challenges.
At Unit 871, our program works closely with Vietnamese military officers. These learners bring dedication, discipline, and strong motivation to their studies. At the same time, teaching in a military setting also requires cultural sensitivity and careful coordination.
Challenges in Cross-Cultural Training
One common challenge is communication between instructors and learners. In Vietnamese culture, students may hesitate to speak up, ask questions, or admit when they do not understand. Out of politeness or respect for authority, they may give short or agreeable answers. This can make it difficult for instructors to judge real comprehension and adjust their teaching.
Another challenge comes from communication with local partners. Day-to-day operations such as scheduling, classroom use, and reporting require close coordination. Different working styles, expectations, and cultural norms can sometimes cause delays or misunderstandings. Building trust and maintaining clear communication is essential to keep programs running smoothly.
Administrative tasks add another layer of complexity. Working with institutions in different cultural contexts often involves extra approvals and formal processes. These requirements demand patience, flexibility, and strong relationships to ensure success.
Best Practices for Success
To strengthen communication between instructors and learners:
- Ask questions in different ways to check understanding.
- Encourage participation through small group activities and low-pressure discussions.
- Create an environment where making mistakes is seen as part of learning.
To improve communication with local partners:
- Hold regular coordination meetings to review schedules and expectations.
- Share updates in both written and verbal forms to reduce misinterpretation.
- Show respect for local protocols and working culture to build long-term trust.
Strong administrative support and flexibility in program design also remain vital. Together, these practices ensure smoother operations and stronger learning outcomes in cross-cultural training programs.
Lessons from Experience
I have seen the value of these practices firsthand. While working with the Australian Defence Cooperation Program, I helped coordinate English training for Vietnamese officers also at Unit 871. The program succeeded not only because of good teaching but also because of cultural awareness and strong support systems.
Now at Lana Learn, I see the same principles at work. By combining high-quality instruction with respect for cultural differences, we can deliver training that truly meets the needs of Vietnamese officers and our partners at Unit 871.
Conclusion
Working across cultures is never simple, but it is always rewarding. Challenges in communication, learning styles, and administration can be met with preparation and care. At Lana Learn, we continue to adapt and apply best practices so that education remains a bridge between people, not a barrier.